Ancient Egyptian Pharaohs Rediscovered Underwater Near Aswan

Archaeologists recently unveiled a remarkable discovery near Aswan, Egypt: rock carvings depicting ancient Egyptian pharaohs, submerged for decades due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam. This underwater expedition, conducted by a joint French-Egyptian team, has brought to light significant artifacts that were long thought to be lost to history.

During their meticulous exploration in the Nile River, the team uncovered carvings featuring pharaohs such as Amenhotep III, Thutmose IV, Psamtik II, and Apries. These rulers, spanning the 18th and 26th dynasties, are now known to have left their marks on rocks that were submerged when the dam was built between 1960 and 1970. The findings were announced by Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and have sparked renewed interest in the area’s archaeological significance.

Marks of the pharaohs, submerged by the Aswan dam. (Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities)

Treasures Beneath the Dam

The Aswan region has always been crucial to ancient Egypt, not only as a border area but also as a site of monumental temples like Abu Simbel and the Philae temple complex. Before the Aswan High Dam’s construction, UNESCO led a massive campaign to document and relocate as many archaeological treasures as possible. Despite these efforts, many artifacts were left behind and consequently submerged, notes a Live Science report.

Now, archaeologists are racing against time to document these underwater remnants. The current expedition utilizes advanced technologies such as photography, video, and photogrammetry. These tools allow the team to create detailed 3D models of the carvings, preserving their details for future study and protection.

The carvings record the reigns of several pharaohs. (Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities)

Insights from the Deep

The carvings provide an insight into the reigns of several pharaohs. Among the notable finds are depictions of Amenhotep III (circa 1390-1352 BC) and Thutmose IV (circa 1400-1390 BC). These rulers were pivotal in Egypt’s 18th dynasty, a period marked by prosperity and extensive building projects. The carvings also include Psamtik II (circa 595-589 BC) and Apries (circa 589-570 BC), who ruled during the 26th dynasty, a time of significant political and military activity.

Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Archaeological Affairs, highlighted that the mission’s work around the islands of Philae and Knossos has already yielded substantial documentation. The carvings are in surprisingly good condition, allowing for detailed study and preservation.

Future Prospects

The ongoing work in Aswan promises more discoveries. Dr. Islam Saleem, Director General of the General Administration for Sunken Archaeological Archaeology, emphasized that the team’s preliminary findings suggest the presence of additional carvings yet to be uncovered. The creation of 3D models will aid in the scientific publication and conservation of these artifacts, ensuring their legacy endures.

As research continues, experts anticipate uncovering further historical insights, particularly concerning the 18th dynasty’s reigns. This period, exemplified by rulers like Amenhotep III and Thutmose IV, is already renowned for its architectural and artistic achievements. The new discoveries could shed light on less understood aspects of their rule and the broader historical context of ancient Egypt.

Top image:  The stone carvings found during a diving expedition near Aswan, Egypt.               Source: © Dr Cristian Craciun/Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities

By Gary Manners