Senebkay's brutal death uncovered

The skeleton of an Egyptian pharaoh named Senebkay, discovered in 2014, has provided new details about his violent death. He lived between 1650 and 1550 BCE in the ancient necropolis of Abydos, and he belonged to a previously unknown royal dynasty.

Violent injuries on the skeleton

Analysis of Senebkay's remains showed that he suffered 18 injuries, including fatal blows to the skull and back. These wounds were likely caused by attackers using bronze axes with distinctive "duck bill" blades, indicating a fierce and coordinated attack.

Archaeologist's assessment of the attack

Joe Wegner, an archaeologist from the University of Pennsylvania, described the injuries as "brutal" and suggested that Senebkay was overwhelmed by attackers who stabbed and slashed him. He proposed a scenario where Senebkay was struck while riding a horse, leading to severe injuries and eventual death.

Injuries suggest a battlefield scenario

Wegner and his team examined the angles of the injuries and their locations to reconstruct the attack. They believe Senebkay was struck while seated and possibly fell to the ground after receiving fatal blows to the head. One of these blows left a deep imprint on his skull, showing the force used.

Senebkay's age and height

Analysis by researchers from Rowan University showed that Senebkay was between 35 and 40 years old and unusually tall for his time, measuring between 1.70 and 1.82 meters. This suggests he may have been a prominent or powerful individual.

Historical context of Senebkay's time

Senebkay lived during Egypt's Second Intermediate Period, a time of political instability and limited resources. His tomb was found in a complex of seven underground structures, and other significant remains were discovered in three of the burial chambers.

Identification of Senebkay's name

Senebkay is the only pharaoh from this period whose name has been confirmed. His tomb contained an oval cartouche with a horizontal motif, a sign of royal status. His name matches that found on the Royal Canon of Turin, a famous but damaged papyrus.

Evidence of horseback riding

Senebkay's tendons and ligaments suggest he spent a significant amount of time riding horses, which were being introduced to Egypt from the Near East during his lifetime. This aligns with historical records that show pharaohs and military leaders used horses.

Other skeletons in the necropolis

Another skeleton found nearby belonged to a strong, athletic man who may have engaged in repetitive physical activities, possibly related to military training. Joe Wegner believes the seven tombs could represent a dynasty of warrior kings, and DNA tests may reveal if these individuals were related.

Possible causes of conflict

During Senebkay's time, the Abydos-based dynasty may have faced threats from the Hyksos rulers in the Nile Delta and the Theban kings to the south. Internal rivalries could also have led to conflict, though the exact cause of Senebkay's death remains unclear.

Burial practices and Senebkay's final days

The presence of shrouds near Senebkay's remains indicates he was not immediately mummified after death. His body was likely exposed or transported for several weeks before being embalmed and buried, suggesting a delay in the funeral process.