Simple stone triggers discovery

A simple stone triggered the discovery in Egypt when a resident of Behbeit el-Hagar, a village in the Gharbiya governorate, noticed a block engraved with inscriptions while working on his land. Instead of touching it, he informed the antiquities authorities, leading to a significant archaeological find.

Rescue excavation reveals ancient statues

A rescue excavation mission by the Supreme Council of Antiquities uncovered two monumental royal statues and a pink granite block covered with hieroglyphs. These artifacts are now being studied for their historical significance and connection to ancient Egyptian rulers.

Discovery linked to Ramses II

The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced the discovery, stating that the remains are associated with Ramses II, who ruled from approximately 1279 to 1213 BCE. The findings suggest that large royal monuments stood at the site long before the famous Temple of Isis was built.

Statue details and ongoing research

The main piece measures 1.60 meters in height, depicting the king wearing the double crown, a symbol of his power over Upper and Lower Egypt. Archaeologists have also uncovered part of the back pillar, which bears the name of Horus of the sovereign, Hor Ka Nakht Mery Maat, raising questions about the statue’s identity.

Estimated full size of the statue

According to Hisham El-Leithy, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, the complete statue would reach approximately 8.5 meters, including the base. Excavations at the site continue, with several identifications awaiting confirmation.