Archaeologists discover tombs more than 5,000 years old that rewrite the history before pyramids

A team of archaeologists has uncovered two tombs from Egypt’s Early Dynastic Period (3100 B.C. to 2686 B.C.) at Jabal al-Tayr in Minya, Egypt. The discovery reveals how ancient Egyptian funerary architecture evolved before the construction of the pyramids.

According to Dr. Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, preliminary studies indicate that the newly discovered tombs share similarities with the tomb of King Den at Abydos, one of the most influential rulers of Egypt’s First Dynasty.

El-Leithy said the first tomb is an exceptional discovery distinguished by its unique design. The second is remarkably similar and has been preserved in extraordinary condition he noted. Sherif Fathy, Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, added that together they help trace the evolution of funerary architecture across different periods of ancient Egypt.

The most striking feature of the discovery is the tombs’ design. Their walls are thicker at the base and gradually narrow toward the top. Researchers are now investigating whether this architectural style represents the earliest stage in the development of the step pyramid, such as Djoser’s, and eventually the great pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure.

Archaeologists also found traces of oxidation on the stone, possibly linked to the cutting and preparation of the blocks, along with wooden supports that were used to reinforce the walls. The second tomb, located south of the first, is in significantly better condition and provides a clearer picture of the original layout.

These tombs offer an exceptional glimpse into the architectural experimentation that preceded Egypt’s great stone pyramids, when builders were still learning how to transform burial practices, political power, and engineering into monuments designed to endure for millennia, the researchers highlighted.

In addition to the tombs, the team uncovered both individual and collective human burials. The remains were found inside deteriorating wooden coffins.

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