A massive ancient statue has been discovered at the Tel al-Faraoun site in Al-Husseiniya, Sharqia Governorate, Egyptian authorities said. The find was made by an archaeological mission working under the Supreme Council of Antiquities. Officials say the statue is missing its lower section, including the legs and base. Despite the damage, experts believe the remaining features of the statue point to King Ramses II, one of ancient Egypt’s most powerful rulers.
Statue highlights royal and religious activity
Dr. Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, described the discovery as significant. He said it sheds light on royal and religious life in the eastern Nile Delta.
Researchers say the find supports the idea that regional centers were closely connected to major royal hubs. Sites like Tel al-Faraoun likely played an important role in extending royal influence beyond central capitals.
Large size and artistic features stand out
The statue is notable for its size. It weighs about 5 to 6 tons (approximately 10,000 to 12,000 pounds) and stands around 2.20 meters (7.2 feet) tall. Although it is in poor condition, surviving parts show clear artistic and royal details.
Experts believe the statue was originally part of a triad, a group of three statues. Similar examples have been found at other sites in Sharqia Governorate.
Evidence of ancient relocation and reuse
Researchers say the discovery highlights a common practice in ancient Egypt. Royal statues were often moved from major cities and reused in new locations.
Mohamed Abdel Badi, head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector, said early studies suggest the statue was first installed in Per-Ramesses. It was later transported to Tel al-Faraoun, known in antiquity as Imet.
Experts say the statue was reused inside a religious complex. This reflects both the cultural value of royal monuments and the continued importance of the site across different historical periods.
Preservation and restoration efforts begin
Authorities moved the statue shortly after its discovery to protect it. It was transferred to a storage facility in San El-Hagar.
Specialists are now preparing to begin detailed restoration work. Officials said the process will follow strict scientific standards to ensure proper conservation.
Recent discovery adds historical context
The find follows another recent discovery in the region. Last September, archaeologists uncovered a stone slab bearing a new version of the Canopus Decree.
The decree was first issued by Ptolemy III in 238 BC during a gathering of priests in Canopus. It honored the king and his family and ordered copies to be placed in major temples.
Researchers say the newly discovered version provides further insight into how royal authority and religious traditions were shared across ancient Egypt.
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