King Philippe of Belgium Explores Egypt's Ancient Wonders with Zahi Hawass
In an exciting reaffirmation of cultural connections, renowned Egyptian archaeologist Dr. Zahi Hawass welcomed His Majesty King Philippe of Belgium to the vibrant archaeological site of the Teti Cemetery, located within the historic Saqqara necropolis. This visit, conducted under the auspices of the Zahi Hawass Foundation for Archaeology and Heritage, saw collaboration with Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities, establishing a bridge of shared knowledge and appreciation for Egypt’s ancient history.
The royal visit was not merely ceremonial; it aimed to shed light on significant discoveries made in the area, showcasing the incredible advancements of ongoing archaeological missions. Accompanied by a high-level Belgian delegation and Ambassador Bart De Groof, King Philippe was treated to an in-depth tour, where Dr. Hawass elaborated on the mission’s groundbreaking findings.
Among the highlights of the visit was the revelation of the tomb of Prince Userkaf-Ra, a notable figure as the son of King Userkaf, the founder of the Fifth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom. This discovery adds to the rich tapestry of Egypt’s history and emphasizes the importance of the Saqqara site, which is known for its unique architectural treasures.
The excavation team has also unearthed a plethora of significant artifacts from various eras, with a standout find being the pyramid of Queen Neith, complete with its attached funerary temple, forming part of an extensive new Old Kingdom cemetery complex. This discovery showcases the deep-rooted traditions and monumental architecture of ancient Egypt, offering insights into the lives of its rulers and their families.
Perhaps the most intriguing artifact encountered was a statue depicting King Djoser, along with representations of his wife and their ten daughters, discovered within Prince Userkaf-Ra’s tomb. Preliminary studies suggest these statues were originally crafted for a chamber adjacent to Djoser’s Step Pyramid and later relocated, adding layers to their historical significance.
Additional treasures included a 92.5 cm inscribed red granite offering table and a striking 1.17-meter-tall black granite statue of a man adorned with hieroglyphics that name him and note his titles, dating back to the Old Kingdom. These artifacts not only reflect the exceptional craftsmanship of the era but also provide invaluable context to our understanding of ancient Egyptian culture and rituals.
King Philippe expressed his deep admiration for the extraordinary achievements of ancient Egyptian civilization, praising the dedication of the Egyptian mission in revealing these treasures. Dr. Hawass highlighted the importance of such royal and international visits, which serve as excellent promotional opportunities for Egypt’s rich antiquities. They embody the country’s stability and joy in sharing its cultural heritage on the world stage.
As Egypt continues to unveil its ancient history through ongoing excavations and dedicated research, the collaboration between international dignitaries and local experts promises to elevate the appreciation and preservation of this magnificent heritage.
Tags: #Egypt #Belgium #WorldNews #Politics #Tourism
