Archaeologists Uncover 3,000-Year-Old Tomb Near Luxor

A Dutch archaeological mission from Leiden University has discovered a 3,000-year-old tomb in the Sheikh Abd el-Qurna necropolis on Luxor’s West Bank. The announcement, made by Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, marks the latest addition to a string of historical discoveries aimed at revitalizing the nation’s tourism sector.

Experts believe the tomb belongs to a man named Paser and dates back to the Ramesside period, which encompasses Egypt’s 19th and 20th dynasties. This conclusion is supported by the distinct artistic style of the inscriptions found at the site.

The structure follows the traditional design of private Theban tombs from the New Kingdom era. It features an open courtyard leading to an inverted “T”-shaped rock-cut chapel, with the primary burial chambers excavated below ground level. Within the courtyard, the excavation team uncovered several well-preserved architectural features, including a mudbrick bench intended to support a funerary stela, and a central staircase bordered by sloping ramps leading to the main entrance.

Interior inscriptions prominently display Paser’s name and depict scenes of him worshipping various deities within shrines, as well as sitting alongside his wife in front of an offering table.

The archaeological team plans to conduct further documentation and research to verify the identities of all individuals interred within the complex and to glean deeper insights into its broader historical context. Egyptian authorities hope that promoting such monumental finds will continue to draw international visitors to Luxor, which remains one of the world’s premier archaeological hubs.