3,900-year-old secret chamber housing Egyptian tomb with exquisite detail unearthed

Archaeologists in Egypt have made a remarkable discovery: a burial chamber containing a beautifully decorated coffin belonging to the daughter of a prominent historical figure.

As one of the most ornately decorated and well-preserved coffins ever found from the 12th dynasty, the significant artifact was also inside one of the largest non-royal burial tombs in Egypt.

The surprising discovery was made during a routine cleaning operation at the tomb of Djefaihapi, a powerful governor of one of Egypt’s wealthiest regions, in Asyut.

Djefaihapi’s tomb itself is a testament to the province’s affluence. It measures 400 feet long and over 30 feet high – a grand architectural feat reserved for the elite.

Unexpectedly, archaeologists found a hidden chamber 50 feet below ground in the tomb’s northern shaft. This hidden chamber belonged to Edi, the governor’s daughter, and has given researchers vital clues to better understand the ancient world.

Edi’s tomb: an artistic achievement

Inside the chamber, archaeologists discovered two remarkably preserved wooden coffins. The inner coffin, measuring 7.5 feet, was snugly placed within a larger outer coffin that extended to 8.6 feet long.

Notably, due to its geographic position and natural resources like gold, Asyut grew into a trade hub. Edi’s father, Djefaihapi, governed this prosperous province during the reign of Pharaoh Senusret (circa 1961 to 1915 BCE).

Both Edi’s and her father’s tombs showcase the region’s wealth through their exquisite craftsmanship. Edi’s coffin, in particular, is one of the most elaborately decorated ever found, highlighting the artistry of funerary practices for the elite. Inscriptions adorning the coffins depict the journey to the afterlife, guiding the deceased towards paradise.

Unfortunately, Edi’s tomb was first discovered in antiquity by looters. They removed her remains from the coffins and destroyed the canopic jars that held her internal organs, Archaeology Mag reports .

However, they left behind valuable artifacts, including a coffin lid, fragments of the canopic jars, wooden statues, and skeletal remains .

A world to discover with a few pieces

“Preliminary studies suggest that Edi died before reaching the age of 40 and suffered from a congenital foot defect,” Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled noted for the Office of Tourism and Antiquities.

Meanwhile, archaeologists have been able to discern key pieces of information concerning the life of Edi. These fragments, though few, could offer a powerful window into not only her life and death but also the society of ancient Egypt .