Archaeologists have uncovered a previously unknown tomb of an ancient Egyptian high official named Paser in the necropolis of Sheikh Abd El-Qurna on Luxor’s West Bank. This significant discovery, made during the current excavation season by a Dutch archaeological mission from Leiden University, reveals a 3,000-year-old monument featuring colorful wall paintings and inscriptions identifying Paser as the occupant.
Significance of the Tomb Discovery
The tomb is part of the Theban Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its concentration of tombs belonging to priests and high-ranking officials from Egypt’s New Kingdom (1570–1069 BCE). The artistic style of the decorations suggests that the tomb dates back to the Ramesside period (ca. 1292–1069 BCE), which encompasses the 19th and 20th dynasties of the New Kingdom.
According to Mohamed Abdel Badie, head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector, the monument adheres to the traditional layout of a New Kingdom elite private tomb, which includes an open forecourt leading to a rock-cut chapel and underground burial chambers.
Architectural Features and Inscriptions
During the excavation, archaeologists discovered well-preserved architectural features, such as mudbrick walls with a niche for a funerary stela and a staircase leading to the tomb’s entrance. Inside, inscriptions clearly identify Paser as the tomb’s owner. Although some sections of the decorated walls remain obscured by dirt, visible scenes depict him worshipping various deities within shrine settings.
