New Archeological Discoveries in Fayoum 0
An Egyptian mission has discovered that the area to the north of Lake Qarun -within the Faiyum region – is rich in archaeological remains dating back as far as 40 million years. Dr. Hawass (SCA) said that the 10- kilometer-wide area is currently being explored to prevent valuable information from being lost. SCA archaeologists have found many artifacts dating back to the prehistoric period, including arrowheads and other finely crafted stone artifacts of Mousterian, Levallois and Aterian type. They have also uncovered pottery and stone beads dating to the same era, along with the remains of shelters used by prehistoric hunters. Archaeological remains from later periods are also present in the area. A cemetery that most probably dates back to the Greco-Roman period has yielded coins and other small artifacts.
The team has explored a tomb in a cemetery consisting of a deep shaft ending in two chambers, but further excavation is hampered by constantly shifting sands. In addition to the prehistoric andGreco-Roman remains found in the area, thearchaeologists have discovered pottery, pipes, coins and glassware dating to the Fatimid and Mamluk periods. Other finds include medical and cosmetic tools, as well as stone shot used in hunting animals during the Islamic era.
Dr. Hawass added that the excavation was initiated in response to a plan by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism to build hotels and resorts on the northern shore of Lake Qarun. The ongoing SCA excavations will ensure that valuable archaeological evidence is not lost to development, while reinforcing the need to protect all of Egypt’s ancient monuments.