Doha: The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has unveiled a collection of incredible artifacts at the Tell Quesna archaeological site in Monufia Governorate, north of Cairo. The discovery spotlights cultural and commercial practices and interactions during the Late Period and the Greco-Roman Period.

According to Qatar News Agency, the discovery, made by the Egyptian archaeological mission affiliated with the Supreme Council of Antiquities, showcases a well-organized architectural layout. It consists of a main hall connected to several chambers topped with vaulted ceilings. The statement added that burials in varying states of preservation were also discovered, alongside a collection of archaeological artifacts, marking a scientific addition to understanding religious beliefs and burial practices during that era.

Inside one of the chambers, two collections containing 560 statues of various shapes and sizes were unearthed. Some of the statues bear texts excerpted from the Book of the Dead, alongside a collection of protective amulets made of semi-precious stones, including finger amulets, the Wedjat Eye, and the Isis Knot. All of these artifacts were associated with meanings of protection, strength, and rebirth in ancient Egyptian beliefs.

The excavation also uncovered an array of pottery vessels, including plates and containers of different sizes, as well as a pottery vessel containing remnants of materials believed to have been used in mummification processes or burial-related rituals, along with two pottery lamps. The statement noted that substantial quantities of blue and green faience beads were also discovered, along with examples of imported pottery from the island of Rhodes, including part of a vessel handle bearing its maker's name.

Overall, this provides material evidence of active trade relations between Egypt and the Mediterranean Basin during the Late Period and Greco-Roman Period, reflecting the site's openness to regional trade networks during that era.