A collaborative effort led by archaeologist Christiana Köhler from the University of Vienna, consisting of both German and Austrian researchers, is currently delving into the tomb of Queen Meret-Neith in Abydos, Egypt. This prominent historical figure from around 3,000 BC is gaining renewed attention due to recent excavations that have unveiled intriguing discoveries, including 5,000-year-old wine and various burial items. These findings have ignited discussions about whether Meret-Neith might have been the earliest female pharaoh in ancient Egypt, potentially preceding Queen Hatshepsut.
The archaeological team has initiated excavations within the tomb of Queen Meret-Neith, dating back to the 1st Dynasty (circa 3,000 BCE) in Abydos. This remarkable woman held a unique status as the sole female to possess a monumental tomb in Egypt's initial royal burial grounds in Abydos. In her era, she likely held considerable influence, prompting speculation about her potential role as Egypt's first female pharaoh, paving the way for later rulers like Queen Hatshepsut of the 18th dynasty. Despite her significance, Meret-Neith's true identity remains an enigma, making these recent excavations all the more captivating.
The excavation team has uncovered substantial evidence of grave goods, notably hundreds of sizable wine jars, some remarkably well-preserved and still sealed, containing ancient remnants of wine dating back 5,000 years. Furthermore, inscriptions discovered within the tomb suggest that Queen Meret-Neith held key governmental roles, possibly overseeing the treasury, further underlining her historical importance.
The complex tomb of Meret-Neith, located in the Abydos desert, features not only her burial chamber but also the tombs of 41 courtiers and servants. Constructed using unbaked mud bricks, clay, and wood, the excavation has shed light on the tomb's intricate construction phases, spanning a considerable period.
These findings challenge previous assumptions, particularly the notion of ritual human sacrifices during royal burials in the 1st Dynasty, an idea once widely accepted but never definitively substantiated.
This collaborative endeavor draws upon the expertise of researchers from various disciplines and institutions, including the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the German Archaeological Institute in Cairo, the University of Vienna, the Vienna University of Technology in Austria, and Lund University in Sweden.
Source: University of Vienna