Archaeologists have discovered the tomb of a high-ranking ancient Egyptian official at Saqqara, south of Cairo, along with rare wooden statues and bronze tools that may have been used for medical purposes. The discovery is unusual because the tomb’s inscriptions do not identify its owner as a physician. The tomb belongs to a man named Weni, who held several important administrative and religious positions during Egypt’s Old Kingdom.
An Egyptian archaeological team uncovered the burial chamber northwest of the pyramid of King Merenre. The chamber lies within a mudbrick structure known as a mastaba, which contains several burial shafts. The discovery adds to a series of recent archaeological findings at Saqqara, where excavations have revealed the tombs of senior officials and evidence of ancient burial practices.
Inscriptions reveal Weni’s high-ranking position
Archaeologists identified Weni through inscriptions preserved on the walls of his burial chamber. The inscriptions list several titles, including “Mayor,” “Sem Priest,” “Sole Companion,” and “Lord of the City of Elkab.” Other titles suggest he held responsibilities connected to royal institutions and the treasury.
Hisham El-Leithy, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said the inscriptions provide evidence of Weni’s administrative authority and religious standing. The chamber’s design also offers information about burial practices and tomb construction during the Old Kingdom. Previous excavations at Saqqara uncovered the tomb of a Fifth Dynasty prince, along with a large inscribed false door.
Rare wooden statues and possible medical instruments found
Archaeologists discovered a vaulted chamber directly above Weni’s burial room. Inside, they found two small wooden statues depicting figures in an unusual position of worship. The team also recovered several bronze instruments from Weni’s burial shaft. Researchers believe the objects may have served medical purposes, although their exact functions remain unknown.
The instruments are particularly interesting because none of Weni’s surviving titles identify him as a physician. Researchers are examining the objects to determine their original use and possible connection to the tomb’s owner.
Skeletal remains reveal details about Weni’s health
Preliminary examinations of Weni’s remains suggest he was older than 50 when he died. Researchers found evidence of advanced dental disease affecting his teeth and surrounding tissues. His bones also showed changes consistent with repeated physical strain.
At the site, archaeologists also uncovered a false door belonging to a woman named Sekhet-Nebti. Her inscriptions include the title “Priestess of Hathor,” providing further evidence of women’s religious roles during the Old Kingdom. Other discoveries at Saqqara have revealed ancient statues and funerary objects, including representations of the goddess Hathor.
Excavations continue at the cemetery of King Merenre. Researchers are studying the structures, inscriptions, and artifacts to better understand how the burial complex was used over time.
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