Luxor: The Egyptian-French archaeological mission, comprising the Supreme Council of Antiquities, the French National Center for Scientific Research, and the University of Sorbonne, has unearthed several tombs in Luxor’s Ramesseum Temple, dating back to the Third Intermediate Period of ancient Egypt. The recent discoveries also include storage facilities for olive oil, honey, and fats, alongside workshops for textiles and stone works, kitchens, and bakeries.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the excavations within the temple revealed a “House of Life,” a scientific school attached to major temples. This finding is significant as it not only illustrates the architectural planning of this educational institution but also unveils a collection of artifacts, including remnants of drawings and school games. This marks the first evidence of a school within the Ramesseum Temple, also known as the “Temple of Millions of Years.”

During the excavations, another set of buildings was discovered on the eastern side of the temple, likely serving as administrative offices. The buildings and vaults on the northern side were used for storing olive oil, honey, and fats, with additional vaults used for storing wine, where numerous wine jar labels were found.

The northeastern area of the temple yielded a large number of tombs with burial chambers and shafts. Additionally, canopic utensils and funerary tools were found in good condition, along with caskets nested inside each other and 401 statues.

Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy commended the mission’s efforts in uncovering new insights into the history of the Ramesseum Temple and its religious and communal role in ancient Egypt.