Egypt Unveils Newly Found Ancient Artifacts

Archaeologists have unearthed a set of ancient artifacts in Egypt including Pharaonic funerary furniture, remains of a Roman basilica, and a marble head of Aphrodite, the ancient Greek goddess of love and beauty, per the AP. The remains of the basilica and Aphrodite's head were found in an ancient necropolis in the province of Beni Suef, about 80 miles south of Cairo. The Ehnasiya necropolis, which is also known by its ancient Roman name, Heracleopolis Magna, was one of the most significant cities of ancient Egypt.

Archaeologist Mohammed Abdel-Badei said they found large stone blocks supporting columns, weighing up to 45 tons, that had been used in building the basilica. Three of the blocks remain standing in their original positions. Aphrodite's head, measuring about 9½ inches by nearly 10 inches, includes detailed features of the goddess' face and curly hair, reflecting the classical artistic traditions of the Greek and Roman periods, he said. Archaeologists also found inscriptions linked to Senusret III, who ruled between 1837 BC and 1819 BC during the ancient 12th Dynasty.

In Cairo, archaeologists found a nearly complete set of funerary furniture in the Matariya neighborhood of Cairo, which was once part of the ancient city of Heliopolis, the ministry said. The scientists unearthed a mudbrick burial with gilded remains in a coffin, believed to be for a military figure. They also found a cache of cosmetic tools, including a copper mirror and alabaster kohl containers. The discoveries, announced Sunday, are part of the Egyptian government's efforts to boost the country's tourism industry.