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Archaeological Surprise: Discovery of a Complete Industrial City and Archaeological Workshops from Various Eras in the Temples of Karnak

By Dr. Nader Ali

 

In a stunning archaeological surprise, the French archaeological mission working in the temples of Karnak announced the discovery of a unique industrial area, containing an ancient settlement with workshops and furnaces for ancient Egyptian workers. This discovery was made during excavations near the open-air museum within the temples of Karnak.

 

This important discovery was confirmed by Dr. Mohamed Ismail, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, who gave the green light to start excavation work in that area during his recent visit to the site.

 

Sources indicate that this industrial settlement, which was discovered, dates back to the Ptolemaic period and was used until the Byzantine period, reflecting the important role of this area in serving the temples of Karnak throughout the ages.

 

So far, five furnaces for burning, a set of pottery grain stores, grain mills, and multiple pottery vessels have been uncovered. Additionally, wells made of mud bricks were found, reinforcing the hypothesis that this settlement was a self-contained industrial center that catered to the needs of the temples of Karnak throughout various eras.

 

It is worth noting that this discovery is the first of its kind within the temples of Karnak, revealing clear features of this industrial city that spanned different time periods, from the Late Period to the Byzantine era. Researchers expect that future excavations will uncover remains dating back to the New Kingdom in the same location.

 

This discovery comes at a critical time, as excavations are currently underway at another location in Karnak to uncover a massive enclosure dating back to the era of Pharaoh Amenhotep I. This enclosure, made of white limestone, is unique and aims to be rebuilt after the completion of excavation work.

 

This archaeological discovery will significantly transform our understanding of the temples of Karnak and their nature throughout various eras. It will shed light on daily life and industrial history during that period, allowing researchers and scholars to gain a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the role of the temples of Karnak during that time.