Ptolemaic Temple Entrance Discovered in Egypt

A remarkable archaeological discovery in Athribis, near Sohag, Egypt, has brought to light the entrance of what may have been a grand sanctuary. This site, once a bustling center for worshipping the gods Min-Re, Repyt, and Kolanthes, has captivated researchers with its rich history and intricate details. A team from Germany's University of Tübingen, working with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, uncovered a pylon adorned with hieroglyphic inscriptions and royal reliefs from the reign of Ptolemy VIII in the 2nd century BCE. Among the finds were depictions of King Ptolemy offering sacrifices to the lioness goddess Repyt and the child-god Kolanthes, as well as carvings of the fertility god Min and rare celestial symbols. Inside the northern tower of the pylon, a hidden chamber was revealed. This room, likely used for storing utensils and amphorae, highlights the intricate design and purpose of the structure. A partially preserved staircase suggests the pylon once stood at an impressive height of 59 feet, with corridors connecting various sections of the temple complex. Excavations have been ongoing since 2012, with researchers focusing on uncovering a large stone temple believed to date back to 144 BCE–138 CE. The latest findings have fueled hopes of locating the temple beneath untouched rubble near the site. This discovery not only sheds light on ancient Egyptian religious practices but also underscores the enduring mysteries of Athribis—a site that continues to amaze with every dig. #AncientEgypt #Archaeology #PtolemyVIII #Athribis #EgyptianHistory #SanctuaryDiscovery #TempleExcavation #Egyptology #HistoricalFinds Ancient Egypt, Archaeology, Athribis, Ptolemy VIII, Egyptian gods, Ancient temples, Min-Re, Repyt, Kolanthes, Egyptian discoveries, Egyptian sanctuary, Sohag, University of Tübingen, Egyptian Ministry of Tourism, Ancient civilizations, Lost temples, Historical artifacts, Excavations 2024