Discovery of Roman-Era Tomb in Egypt's Minya Governorate

An Egyptian-Spanish archaeological team has made a significant discovery in Egypt's Minya Governorate, unearthing a Roman-era tomb at the historic site of Al-Bahnasa, known in antiquity as Oxyrhynchus. The excavation, led by Dr. Maite Mascort and Dr. Ester Pons Mellado from the University of Barcelona and the Institute of the Ancient Near East, revealed several mummies and artifacts that provide new insights into ancient funerary practices. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced the findings on April 18, 2026, emphasizing their importance to Egypt's archaeological heritage.

Homeric Literature and Gold Covered Mummies Discovered in EgyptArchaeologists Find Homer’s Iliad Papyrus Inside a Mummy in Egypt

Among the notable discoveries were three golden tongues and one copper tongue, which were traditionally placed in the mouths of the deceased to facilitate communication in the afterlife. The mummies were found wrapped in intricately decorated linen bandages and placed in painted wooden coffins, reflecting the diverse burial customs of the Roman period. Additionally, traces of gold leaf on some mummies suggest that certain individuals received special treatment, possibly indicating their social status.

Archaeologists Find Homer’s Iliad Papyrus Inside a Mummy in Egypt

A rare papyrus containing a passage from Book II of Homer's Iliad was also discovered within one of the mummies. This text, specifically the "Catalogue of Ships," lists the Greek forces involved in the Trojan War, highlighting the influence of Greek literature in Roman Egypt. The presence of such a literary artifact within a burial context adds a unique cultural dimension to the site, underscoring the Greco-Roman cultural exchange during this era.

Homeric Literature and Gold Covered Mummies Discovered in Egypt

Further excavations revealed additional chambers containing cremated remains and various artifacts, including terracotta and bronze figurines depicting deities such as Harpocrates and Cupid. These findings illustrate the blending of Egyptian and Greco-Roman religious traditions, showcasing the rich tapestry of beliefs and practices in ancient Egypt.

Homeric Literature and Gold Covered Mummies Discovered in Egypt

Sherif Fathy, Egypt's Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, praised the discovery, stating that it enhances the understanding of Egypt's diverse heritage across different historical periods. Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, noted that the excavation has provided new evidence of funerary practices during the Greek and Roman periods at Al-Bahnasa. Field Director Hassan Ibrahim Amer emphasized the significance of the Iliad papyrus, stating that it reflects the profound Greek influence in the region during the Roman period.

Homeric Literature and Gold Covered Mummies Discovered in EgyptArchaeologists Find Homer’s Iliad Papyrus Inside a Mummy in Egypt

The excavation at Al-Bahnasa is part of a broader effort that began in 1992, with the current campaign running from November 2025 to February 2026. Researchers anticipate that ongoing work at the site will continue to reveal more about life and death in Roman Egypt, further enriching the understanding of this historically significant region.

Homeric Literature and Gold Covered Mummies Discovered in Egypt

• “Sherif Fathy said the discovery adds to a series of important finds in Minya and highlights the richness of Egypt’s heritage across different eras.” — Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities

Archaeologists Find Homer’s Iliad Papyrus Inside a Mummy in Egypt

• “Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, noted that the excavation has provided new evidence of funerary practices during the Greek and Roman periods at Al-Bahnasa.” — Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities

Homeric Literature and Gold Covered Mummies Discovered in Egypt

• “The presence of this literary masterpiece within a burial context adds a unique cultural and historical dimension to the site, underscoring the profound Greek influence in Al-Bahnasa during the Roman period.” — Hassan Ibrahim Amer, Field Director

Homeric Literature and Gold Covered Mummies Discovered in Egypt

The discoveries at Al-Bahnasa not only illuminate ancient burial rituals but also underscore the site's significance as a window into the Greco-Roman world, with each excavation season promising further revelations.

Homeric Literature and Gold Covered Mummies Discovered in Egypt