The oldest mummy discovered, dates back to 4,300 years ago – Corriere.it

New great archaeological discovery made by the team of Zahi Hawass, former Minister of Antiquities of Egypt and current Secretary General of Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities. In a 15-metre-deep excavation, a limestone sarcophagus sealed with mortar was unearthed, inside which was found what could be considered the oldest and most complete mummy, covered with gold leaf. The decipherment of the name leads to attribute it to a man called Hekashepes e it dates back to 4,300 years ago.

The exceptional discovery occurred in a group of tombs of the 5th and 6th dynasties near the step pyramid of Djoser a Saqqaralocated about 30 kilometers south of Cairo.

Among the various tombs found, one was that of Khnumdjedef, belonging to the priestly caste, inspector of officers and supervisors of nobles during the reign of Unas, the last pharaoh of the fifth dynasty, decorated with scenes of daily life. Another was the burial of Meri, whose inscription states so keeper of secrets and assistant to the great conductor of the Palace. Nine statues were unearthed among the tombs, including one of a man with his wife, others of servants.