Archaeologists have recently discovered a collection of ancient Egyptian artworks hidden below the waters of the Nile River, located between the “Low” and “High” Aswan dams in Egypt. The area, which lies to the south of the city of Aswan, was flooded during the construction of the dam in 1970, submerging numerous archaeological remains. The ancient settlement in this strategic location marked the southern frontier of pharaonic Egypt during ancient times, making it a significant area for archaeological exploration.
The joint Egyptian-French archaeological mission used various approaches to document the underwater remains in the Aswan Reservoir area, including exploratory dives, photography, and underwater video. They uncovered several rock carvings and inscriptions depicting ancient Egyptian pharaohs such as Amenhotep III, Thutmose IV, Psamtik II, and Apries. The mission is currently working on creating three-dimensional models of the finds and studying them for a future scientific publication to detail the discoveries. This new information provides insights into the historical periods and rulers represented in the underwater artworks.
In a separate study published in the journal Communications Earth & Environment, researchers reported on the discovery of a “long-lost” branch of the Nile River, known as the Ahramat Branch. This extinct section of the river, now buried under farmland and desert, once ran along the eastern edge of the Western Desert Plateau in Egypt. The researchers identified a 40-mile-long course of this branch that passed close to 31 pyramids along the plateau, including the iconic complex at Giza. This finding sheds light on the location and historical context of these ancient structures.
The discoveries made by these archaeological missions contribute to our understanding of ancient Egyptian history and the significance of the Nile River in shaping the civilization. The submerged artworks in the Aswan Reservoir area provide a glimpse into the artistic and cultural practices of ancient Egyptians, while the identification of the Ahramat Branch adds to the geographical and historical knowledge of the region. These findings highlight the importance of ongoing archaeological research and exploration in uncovering Egypt’s rich heritage and legacy.
The ongoing collaboration between Egyptian and international archaeologists showcases the importance of working together to uncover and preserve the cultural heritage of ancient civilizations. The detailed recording and analysis of the underwater artworks and historical sites demonstrate the dedication and expertise of these researchers in unraveling the mysteries of the past. By utilizing advanced technologies and research methods, the archaeological missions are able to reveal new insights into Egypt’s ancient history and contribute to the global understanding of human civilization.
As these discoveries continue to be studied and documented, they provide valuable information for future archaeological research and cultural heritage preservation efforts. The uncovering of hidden ancient artifacts and structures beneath the waters of the Nile River adds to the rich tapestry of Egypt’s archaeological landscape and invites further exploration into the mysteries of the past. Through collaboration and innovation, archaeologists are able to piece together the puzzle of ancient Egypt and share its wonders with the world.
