Couverture BIA 57 - egyptologues.net

BIALVII

les Fatimidesau Canada

Collège de FranceChaire "Civilisation de l'Égypte pharaonique :

archéologie, philologie, histoire"

Institut françaisd'archéologie orientale

BIAwww.eg yptologues.net

Bulletin d'Information Archéologique

LVIIJanvier - Juin 2018

Le Caire - Paris 2018

Bulletin

d’Information

Archéologique

REVUE SEMESTRIELLE n° 57

janvier / juin 2018

Directeur de la publication

Nicolas GRIMAL [email protected]

Rédaction et coordination

Emad ADLY [email protected]

IFAO Ambafrance Caire

S/C Valise diplomatique 13, rue Louveau

F-92438 Chatillon

http://www.ifao.egnet.net

37, rue al-Cheikh Ali Youssef B.P. Qasr al-Aïny 11562

Le Caire – R.A.E. Tél. : [20 2] 27 97 16 37 Fax : [20 2] 27 94 46 35

Collège de France

Chaire "Civilisation de l’Égypte pharaonique : archéologie,

philologie, histoire"

http://www.egyptologues.net

52, rue du Cardinal Lemoine F 75231 Paris Cedex 05

Tél. : [33 1] 44 27 10 47 Fax : [33 1] 44 27 11 09

Remarques ou suggestions

[email protected]

Les articles ou extraits d’articles publiés dans le BIA et les idées

qui peuvent s’y exprimer n’engagent que la

responsabilité de leurs auteurs et ne représentent pas une

position officielle de la Rédaction.

Photo de couverture

© 2018 Aga Khan Museum

© Institut français d’archéologie

orientale. Le Caire. 2018 © Collège de France. Paris. 2018

ISSN 1110-2489

Système de translittération des mots arabes

c o n s o n n e s v o y e l l e s

û وو ,î يي ,â اا : q longues قق z زز ‘ ء

k brèves : a, i, u كك s سس b بب

l diphtongues : aw, ay لل sh شش t تت

m مم s صص th ثث

n نن Dh ضض G جج

h autres conventions ههـ t طط H حح

w/û tæ’ marbºta = a, at (état construit) وو z ظظ kh خخ

y/î article: al- et l- (même devant ىى ‘ عع D ددles “solaires”)

gh غغ Z ذذ

f فف r رر

BIA LVII — Janvier/Juin 2018 7

SOMMAIRE

SYSTÈME DE TRANSLITTÉRATION…….…3 ÉDITORIAL………………………………..…5 SOMMAIRE……………………………….…7

I – JANVIER 2018 LUNDI 1ER JANVIER 2018 ................................ 9 MARDI 2 JANVIER 2018 ................................ 10 MERCREDI 3 JANVIER 2018 ......................... 10 JEUDI 4 JANVIER 2018 .................................. 16 SAMEDI 6 JANVIER 2018 .............................. 21 LUNDI 8 JANVIER 2018 ................................. 22 MARDI 9 JANVIER 2018 ................................ 23 MERCREDI 10 JANVIER 2018 ...................... 24 JEUDI 11 JANVIER 2018 ................................ 26 VENDREDI 12 JANVIER 2018 ....................... 30 LUNDI 15 JANVIER 2018 .............................. 31 MERCREDI 17 JANVIER 2018 ...................... 32 JEUDI 18 JANVIER 2018 ................................ 35 MARDI 23 JANVIER 2018 ............................. 38 MERCREDI 24 JANVIER 2018 ...................... 39 JEUDI 25 JANVIER 2018 ................................ 41 DIMANCHE 28 JANVIER 2018 ...................... 44 LUNDI 29 JANVIER 2018 .............................. 46 MARDI 30 JANVIER 2018 ............................. 46 MERCREDI 31 JANVIER 2018 ...................... 50 I I – FÉVRIER 2018 JEUDI 1ER FÉVRIER 2018 ............................... 52 SAMEDI 3 FÉVRIER 2018 .............................. 57 MERCREDI 7 FÉVRIER 2018 ........................ 57 JEUDI 8 FÉVRIER 2018 .................................. 59 VENDREDI 9 FÉVRIER 2018 ......................... 65 SAMEDI 10 FÉVRIER 2018 ........................... 66 DIMANCHE 11 FÉVRIER 2018 ..................... 67 MARDI 13 FÉVRIER 2018 ............................. 68

MERCREDI 14 FÉVRIER 2018 ..................... 70 DIMANCHE 18 FÉVRIER 2018 ..................... 71 MARDI 20 FÉVRIER 2018 ............................ 71 MERCREDI 21 FÉVRIER 2018 ..................... 72 JEUDI 22 FÉVRIER 2018 ............................... 74 SAMEDI 24 FÉVRIER 2018 ........................... 79 I I I – MARS 2018 JEUDI 1ER MARS 2018 .................................... 82 VENDREDI 2 MARS 2018 .............................. 89 MARDI 6 MARS 2018 .................................... 90 MERCREDI 7 MARS 2018 ............................. 91 JEUDI 8 MARS 2018 ....................................... 92 MERCREDI 14 MARS 2018 ........................... 97 JEUDI 15 MARS 2018 ................................. 105 SAMEDI 17 MARS 2018 ............................. 110 DIMANCHE 25 MARS 2018 ....................... 110 LUNDI 26 MARS 2018 ............................... 110 MARDI 27 MARS 2018 .............................. 112 MERCREDI 28 MARS 2018 ........................ 114 JEUDI 29 MARS 2018 ................................. 117 SAMEDI 31 MARS 2018 ............................. 122

S o m m a i r e


IV – AVRIL 2018 DIMANCHE 1ER AVRIL 2018 ....................... 123 LUNDI 2 AVRIL 2018 .................................. 123 MARDI 3 AVRIL 2018 ................................. 123 MERCREDI 4 AVRIL 2018 .......................... 123 JEUDI 5 AVRIL 2018 ................................... 124 MERCREDI 11 AVRIL 2018 ....................... 128 JEUDI 12 AVRIL 2018 ................................. 131 VENDREDI 13 AVRIL 2018 ........................ 131 LUNDI 16 AVRIL 2018 ............................... 132 MARDI 17 AVRIL 2018 .............................. 133 JEUDI 19 AVRIL 2018 ................................. 134 VENDREDI 20 AVRIL 2018 ........................ 138 SAMEDI 21 AVRIL 2018 ............................. 142 DIMANCHE 22 AVRIL 2018 ....................... 143 MERCREDI 25 AVRIL 2018 ....................... 144 JEUDI 26 AVRIL 2018 ................................. 145 DIMANCHE 29 AVRIL 2018 ....................... 148 LUNDI 30 AVRIL 2018 ............................... 151 V – MAI 2018 MARDI 1ER MAI 2018 .................................. 153 MERCREDI 2 MAI 2018 .............................. 153 JEUDI 3 MAI 2018 ....................................... 153 VENDREDI 4 MAI 2018 .............................. 158 SAMEDI 5 MAI 2018 ................................... 159 DIMANCHE 6 MAI 2018 ............................. 160 MARDI 8 MAI 2018 ..................................... 161 MERCREDI 9 MAI 2018 .............................. 162 JEUDI 10 MAI 2018 ..................................... 165 VENDREDI 11 MAI 2018 ............................ 168 DIMANCHE 13 MAI 2018 ........................... 169 MARDI 15 MAI 2018 .................................. 169 MERCREDI 16 MAI 2018 ........................... 170 JEUDI 17 MAI 2018 ..................................... 175 VENDREDI 18 MAI 2018 ............................ 175 SAMEDI 19 MAI 2018 ................................ 176

MERCREDI 23 MAI 2018 ........................... 177 JEUDI 24 MAI 2018 .................................... 181 VENDREDI 25 MAI 2018 ........................... 183 DIMANCHE 27 MAI 2018 .......................... 183 MARDI 29 MAI 2018 .................................. 184 MERCREDI 30 MAI 2018 ........................... 185 JEUDI 31 MAI 2018 .................................... 185 VI – JUIN 2018 DIMANCHE 3 JUIN 2018 ............................ 191 MARDI 5 JUIN 2018 ................................... 192 MERCREDI 6 JUIN 2018 ............................. 193 JEUDI 7 JUIN 2018 ...................................... 196 VENDREDI 8 JUIN 2018 ............................. 201 DIMANCHE 10 JUIN 2018 ......................... 201 LUNDI 11 JUIN 2018 .................................. 203 MARDI 12 JUIN 2018 ................................. 205 JEUDI 14 JUIN 2018 ................................... 205 VENDREDI 15 JUIN 2018 .......................... 207 MERCREDI 20 JUIN 2018 .......................... 208 JEUDI 21 JUIN 2018 ................................... 211 VENDREDI 22 JUIN 2018 .......................... 214 SAMEDI 23 JUIN 2018 ............................... 215 DIMANCHE 24 JUIN 2018 ......................... 215 LUNDI 25 JUIN 2018 .................................. 216 MARDI 26 JUIN 2018 ................................. 217 MERCREDI 27 JUIN 2018 .......................... 218 SAMEDI 30 JUIN 2018 ............................... 218 VII – WHO'S WHO? MINISTÈRE DE L’ARCHÉOLOGIE ................ 221 MUSÉES ......................................................... 229 UNIVERSITÉS ................................................ 231 POUVOIR EXÉCUTIF ..................................... 232 DIVERS ........................................................... 233 VIII - INDEX ……………………….…235


I – JANVIER 2018

Lundi 1er janvier 2018

Botu site

An Egyptian excavation mission has discovered remains of mud-brick walls and several artefacts that can be dated to different periods of the ancient Egyptian era as well as four furnaces from the Late Period (664-332 BCE) during excavation work carried out in Tell al-Farâ‘în archaeological site known as “ancient Buto” in the Kafr al-Shaykh Governorate.

Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî, Head of the Ancient Egyptian Antiquities Sector at Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities, told Ahram Online that studies on the walls’ remains suggested that it could possibly represent the main ancient axis of the Buto temple, and the furnaces may have been used for the preparation of the offerings presented to deities inside the temple.

He continued that the mission has also uncovered the foundation of two limestone columns that may had once have been part of the temple’s hall of pillars, in addition to a limestone statue of King Psamtik I seated on the throne and holding the royal handkerchief in his right hand. The upper part of the statue is damaged, al-‘Ashmâwî noted.

A part of a yet unidentified royal statue has also been found but preliminary examination suggests that it too could belong to King Psamtik I.

The statue is skilfully carved in black granite. It is missing the head, neck, and a segment below the knee, as well as the base and parts of the arms. It depicts the king wearing the Shendit (royal kilt). Both statues and their fragments were transferred to the stores of the ministry for conservation and restoration.

On his part, Husâm Ghunaym, head of the excavation mission, said that the mission uncovered the upper part of a statue of the god Hur engraved in quartzite, remains of an inscription bearing the name of the Buto, part of a granite royal hand with the remains of a royal cartouche of King Psamtik I, part of a Menit Necklace (the symbol of goddess Hathor), as well as a collection of pottery. (Nevine El-Aref, “Remains of royal ancient

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


Egyptian artefacts uncovered in Tell al-Farâ‘în”, Ahram Online, January 1st, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte à Kafr al-Shaykh de 4 fours et de vestiges de mur de différentes époques », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 2 janvier ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Mise au jour à Tell al-Farâ‘în de vestiges de mur de différentes époques », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 2 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Dernière découverte 2017 à Tell al-Farâ‘în », Sada al-Balad, 2 janvier ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte d’un fragment d’une statue royale », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 2 janvier ; Ahmad ‘Uthmân, « Dernière découverte archéologique en 2017 à Tell al-Farâ‘în », al-Wafd, 2 janvier ; “Royal ancient Egyptian artifacts uncovered in Tell al-Farâ‘în”, Egypt Independent, January 2 ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Mise au jour de l’axe principal du temple de Bouto à Kafr al-Shaykh », al-Ahrâm, 3 janvier ; Nasma Réda, « Un début d’année riche en découvertes », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 24 janvier).

- -

Mardi 2 janvier 2018

Le président de l’Administration centrale pour la restauration et la maintenance archéologiques, Dr Gharîb Sunbul, a annoncé l’achèvement du remontage de la tombe n° 989, connue sous le nom de "tombe al-Wardiyân", qui était exposée dans le Musée gréco-romain. Démontée en 2009, cette tombe fut transférée à Kom al-Shuqâfa. Ses travaux de restauration et de remontage ont démarré en 2016. Après les dernières finitions, les restaurateurs attaqueront la tombe n° 990 qui porte également le même nom.

Dr Sunbul a précisé que le remontage de cette tombe, laissée à l’abandon durant plus de 9 ans, a été effectué en suivant les méthodes scientifiques les plus rigoureuses. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie achève le remontage de la tombe al-Wardiyân 9 ans après son démontage », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 2 janvier 2018).

- -

Mercredi 3 janvier 2018

Une trentaine de découvertes ont été faites et deux grands musées ont été inaugurés au cours de l’année écoulée. Bilan.

Héliopolis, le roi soleil fait parler de lui

Malgré le grand débat qu’elle a engendré lors de sa découverte, la statue de Psammétique Ier, déterrée dans le quartier de Matariyya au nord-est du Caire, demeure la découverte maîtresse de l’année 2017. C’est la mission égypto-allemande, opérant sur le site de Sûq al-Khamîs (le Marché du Jeudi) depuis 2012, qui a sorti du sol, submergée par la boue, en mars dernier, la partie supérieure d’une statue colossale. Cette pièce découverte représente la couronne royale ainsi que l’oreille, l’œil droit et une partie d’un visage. Les archéologues ont d’abord suggéré que ces fragments appartiennent à Ramsès II, puisqu’ils ont été découverts à proximité de son temple situé dans la ville antique de Oun, soit l’actuelle Héliopolis. Cette équipe d’archéologues a sorti une deuxième partie de la colossale statue après quelques jours. Cette gigantesque statue fait près de 8 m de hauteur et pèse plus de 24 tonnes.

Depuis, la polémique s’est installée. Suite à ce long débat qui a duré des semaines dans les médias, le ministère des Antiquités a préféré transférer ces pièces au Musée du Caire, afin de les exposer, de les restaurer et de les étudier avant qu’elles ne soient transférées au Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM). Et c’était la surprise. Lors du soulèvement du buste, les archéologues ont lu sur le pilier dorsal le nom de Nebty du pharaon Psammétique Ier (664-610 av. J.-C.) qui était le premier roi de la XXVIe dynastie, qui a débuté à la Basse époque.

Si cette identification est retenue, la statue serait la plus grande retrouvée de ce souverain. Quelques mois plus tard, une nouvelle campagne de fouille a mis au jour 1920 fragments (de 10 cm à 1,50 m) de la statue, surtout de sa partie inférieure et du pilier dorsal, confirmant ainsi que le

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


monument appartenait bien à Psammétique Ier. Outre la statue colossale de 9 m de haut, le site de Oun a révélé d’autres trésors dont un buste de 80 cm d’une autre statue appartenant au roi Séthi Ier, sculptée avec finesse dans une roche de calcaire.

Dirâ‘ Abû al-Nagâ, un site florissant

La Haute-Égypte a eu comme d’habitude la part du lion des découvertes de l’année. Dirâ‘ Abû al-Nagâ, situé sur la rive ouest de Louqsor, est parmi les sites les plus florissants en matière de découvertes archéologiques en 2017. Cette nécropole qui remonte à la XVIIe dynastie a révélé 4 tombes et un jardin funéraire. Deux découvertes remontent au Moyen Empire. C’est-à-dire avant la nécropole elle-même. La première trouvaille a été mise au jour dans l’une des tombes rocheuses. Il s’agit d’un jardin funéraire dévoilé par une mission espagnole. Une découverte exceptionnelle à Thèbes, puisque c’était la première fois qu’on trouve un jardin datant du Moyen Empire. D’une superficie de 6 m2, ce jardin montre l’environnement de l’époque. Le jardin est divisé en carrés pour la culture des plantes et des fleurs variées.

La deuxième trouvaille du Moyen Empire est la tombe d’Amenemhat, l’orfèvre d’Amon. Datant de la XIIIe dynastie, cette tombe est importante, étant donné la valeur des trouvailles. Un nombre considérable de poteries, d’ouchebti, de figurines funéraires, de momies et de cercueils de différentes époques y ont été découverts jusqu’à aujourd’hui. Le travail a commencé en avril dernier après la découverte de la tombe d’Ouserhat sur le même site. Les archéologues ont suivi les traces qui se trouvaient derrière la porte portant le numéro TT390.

Toujours à Dirâ‘ Abû al-Nagâ, deux autres tombes ont été découvertes qui remontent au Nouvel Empire, soit à la fin de la XVIIe dynastie et à la XVIIIe dynastie. Elles portent les noms de Kampp 150 et Kampp 161 en référence à l’égyptologue allemande, Frederica KAMPP, qui a découvert les portes de ces tombes en 1990 mais sans franchir leur seuil. Les propriétaires des deux tombes sont encore

inconnus. Mais d’après les scènes, les égyptologues ont daté la première tombe à la fin de XVIIe dynastie et au début de la XVIIIe dynastie. Le plafond de la salle rectangulaire de la tombe est gravé du cartouche de Thoutmosis Ier. Quant à la deuxième tombe, Kampp 161, elle a été creusée sous les règnes des rois Amenhotep II et Thoutmosis IV.

Tiy, Sekhmet se révèlent à Kom al-Hîtân

À Louqsor aussi, mais cette fois-ci dans la région de Kom al-Hîtân, la mission archéologique égypto-européenne, dirigée par Hourig SOUROUZIAN opérant sur le site du temple d’Amenhotep III a découvert une statue magnifiquement sculptée de la reine de la XVIIIe dynastie du Nouvel Empire, la reine Tiye. Cette belle statue magnifiquement sculptée en albâtre a, en effet, été déterrée à côté de la jambe droite d’une statue colossale du roi Amenhotep III. Celle-ci, considérée comme la plus distinguée, représente probablement la reine Tiy, la femme d’Amenhotep III.

C’est la première fois qu’une statue en albâtre soit trouvée à l’intérieur de ce temple. Toutes les découvertes précédentes étaient sculptées en quartzite. Cette découverte a été faite accidentellement en nettoyant et en réparant la partie inférieure de la statue colossale d’Amenhotep III. La statue était en très bon état de conservation et conserve toujours ses belles couleurs d’antan. Des travaux de consolidation et de restauration doivent être effectués sur la statue avant qu’elle ne puisse être exposée en plein air au temple de Memnon.

L’année 2017 a été très riche pour la mission archéologique égypto-européenne de Kom al-Hîtân, puisque quelques jours après cette découverte, les archéologues ont également sorti du sol 66 statues de la déesse Sekhmet en bon état, ainsi que d’autres fragments. Ces statues sont exceptionnelles et d’une grande qualité artistique, scientifique et archéologique. Elles montrent que ce roi du Nouvel Empire a cherché la bienveillance et la protection. La présence de ce grand nombre de statues servait aussi à repousser les ennemis. Ce qui explique la raison pour

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


laquelle presque à chaque saison de travail, de nombreuses statues de la déesse sont découvertes sur le même site.

Vers la fin de l’année, 27 nouvelles statues de la déesse Sekhmet sculptées en granite noir ont été mises au jour. Au total 287 statues ont été découvertes depuis le début des fouilles en 1998.

Aswân et ses 10 nouvelles tombes

Aswân a été le théâtre de plusieurs découvertes importantes. Au mois de juin, une mission archéologique égyptienne dépendant du ministère des Antiquités a mis au jour dix tombes remontant à la période tardive près du mausolée d’Agha Khan sur la rive ouest d’Aswân au cours de leurs travaux de fouille. Ces tombes, selon les responsables de la mission, pourraient être une extension de la nécropole des gouverneurs de la région sur la colline de Qubbat al-Hawâ, située à l’ouest d’Aswân, qui abrite des tombes appartenant aux plus importants gouverneurs de la ville d’Aswân durant l’Ancien, le Moyen ou le Nouvel Empire.

En fait, les tombes découvertes ont une conception architecturale identique. Creusées dans le rocher, elles commencent par des escaliers raides aboutissant à une entrée qui donne immédiatement sur une petite chambre funéraire dans laquelle se trouvent sarcophages, momies et ustensiles divers. Au cours des prochaines saisons de fouille, la mission étudiera ce qui a été découvert à l’intérieur des tombeaux et accomplira les travaux de conservation nécessaires.

Gabal al-Silsila révèle ses secrets

Toujours à Aswân, mais cette fois-ci dans la région de Gabal al-Silsila, une série de découvertes ont eu lieu, fruit de la coopération entre plusieurs missions étrangères et le ministère des Antiquités. Une mission suédoise a dégagé 12 tombes du Nouvel Empire, surtout remontant aux rois Thoutmosis III et Amenhotep II. Y ont été trouvés des restes humains et des dépouilles d’animaux. Il y avait aussi des restes de sarcophages en bois et de cartonnages. D’après les analyses préliminaires des os, les

défunts étaient en bonne santé. Cette mission a mis au jour encore 4 tombes intactes consacrées aux enfants. La mission autrichienne a dévoilé à Kom Ombo un cimetière qui remonte à la Première Période Intermédiaire. Quant à la mission suisse opérant à Aswân, elle a délivré une statue incomplète qui remonte à l’époque gréco-romaine.

Minyâ dévoile de nouveaux trésors

En Moyenne-Égypte, et plus précisément au gouvernorat de Minyâ, 17 momies couvertes de lin remontant à la fin de l’époque pharaonique tardive (712-332 av. J.-C.) ont été découvertes dans des catacombes dans la région de Tûna al-Gabal. Cette nécropole est incomparable, car elle représente le premier cimetière humain du genre trouvé près de la ville de Mallawî à Minyâ en Moyenne-Égypte, depuis les années 1950. Outre ces momies, la mission archéologique égyptienne a mis au jour, en mai dernier, des catacombes, des sarcophages et des squelettes. Les archéologues ont exhumé, lors des fouilles, des amphores et des récipients en argile qu’ils ont exposés devant la nécropole. Ils ont également découvert deux papyri montrant probablement l’état religieux et social dans la région. Ils sont écrits en démotique, une forme d’écriture hiéroglyphique simplifiée, utilisée au cours des dernières dynasties pharaoniques jusqu’au début de l’époque romaine.

Selon les archéologues, ces momies appartiennent à de hautes personnalités. Elles pourraient appartenir à de grands prêtres de la région qui servaient en faveur de dieu Djéhouty et pourraient également remonter à l’ère ptolémaïque, ce que les études vont prouver dans les jours qui viennent. Cette découverte est intervenue suite à une décision de scanner la région avec un radar GPR qui a révélé la présence d’espaces vides dans la région Est des catacombes.

Un temple de Ramsès II à Abûsîr

Près de Gîza, à Abûsîr, dans la région de Badrashayn, la mission égypto-tchèque a réussi à découvrir les vestiges d’un temple de Ramsès II remontant au Nouvel Empire.

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


Depuis la première saison de la mission sur le site, en 2012, cette dernière a mis au jour certains témoignages archéologiques qui indiquent la présence d’un temple complet à Abûsîr. Raison pour laquelle la mission a continué ses fouilles pendant trois autres saisons 2013, 2014, et 2015.

La partie découverte du temple a une dimension de 32 m x 51 m. Il s’agit de fondations en brique crue de l’un des pylônes du temple et une cour ouverte externe qui donne sur la salle hypostyle en pierre. Certains murs de la salle hypostyle sont bleus. Au fond de la salle, on a dégagé quelques marches d’escaliers ou une pente qui mène vers une chapelle divisée en trois pièces parallèles couvertes de scènes colorées qui ont permis de dater le temple.

Le temple comprend une gravure qui représente les noms du roi Ramsès II. Il y a une autre gravure décorée de scènes étroitement liées aux divinités solaires comme Amon, Rê et Nekhbet. Ces scènes reflètent le pouvoir royal et sa sainteté, puisque le roi est le fils de la divinité Horus sur terre. Ce temple est le seul témoin des activités de Ramsès II dans la nécropole de Memphis. Le temple indique encore qu’on a continué à adorer le dieu solaire Rê à Abûsîr, lieu de naissance de cette divinité durant la Ve dynastie et jusqu’au Nouvel Empire. Ce qui a incité Ramsès II à y bâtir un temple considérable dédié à cette divinité.

Les deux citadelles de Tell al-Maskhûta

Au nord de l’Égypte, la mission italienne du Conseil National des recherches italiennes, en coopération avec le ministère égyptien des Antiquités, a dévoilé les vestiges de deux citadelles à Tell al-Maskhûta, précisément à Wâdî al-Tumaylât situé à 15 km de l’ouest de la ville d’Ismâ‘îliyya au nord de l’Égypte. La première citadelle est considérée comme l’une des plus vastes jamais découvertes. Sa muraille nord est formée de deux murailles collées l’une à l’autre. L’épaisseur de la première est de 12 m, tandis que la seconde est d’une épaisseur de 10 m et d’une hauteur de 7 m. La muraille de la première citadelle

est d’une épaisseur de 7 m et d’une hauteur de 4 m.

La deuxième citadelle a été bâtie sur les vestiges de l’époque des Hyksos. La construction de ce fort, de 8 x 7 x 5 m de dimensions, remonte à la XXIVe dynastie. Les murailles découvertes sont en briques crues. Cette trouvaille enrichit l’histoire de l’architecture militaire égyptienne, surtout que le site donne sur les frontières est de l’Égypte. Les fouilles continueront dans ce site riche en vestiges militaires remontant aux plus anciennes époques. Les murailles seront restaurées.

Les trésors sous-marins d’Alexandrie

Des débris de trois navires, datant de l’époque romaine, ont été découverts lors des fouilles de la mission égyptienne avec l’Institut européen d’archéologie sous-marine (IEASM), au port Est d’Alexandrie. En plus, la mission a ressorti des eaux une tête royale de cristal de la même époque. Cette tête pourrait appartenir aux armées d’Antoine. La mission a également dégagé du golfe d’Abûqîr trois pièces de monnaies en or remontant à l’empereur Octave Auguste, ainsi qu’un bateau de vœux en plomb dédié à la divinité Osiris de la cité Héraclès.

Ces trouvailles indiquent que le port cache encore plusieurs monuments à découvrir, surtout qu’on croyait que le site ne comprenait que le navire découvert en 1998. La mission a repêché de grandes planches de bois, ainsi que des poteries qui faisaient probablement partie de la cargaison des navires.

Les ordonnances d’HIPPOCRATE découvertes à Sainte-Catherine

Dans le Sinaï, un manuscrit inestimable a été découvert. Au cours du projet d’énumération et de photographie minutieuse des manuscrits de la bibliothèque du monastère de Sainte-Catherine, situé au pied du Mont Moïse dans la péninsule du Sinaï, les scientifiques ont découvert un manuscrit (palimpseste) remontant aux Ve et VIe siècles, écrit sur du vélin. Le palimpseste consistait à réécrire de nouveaux textes sur d’autres plus anciens, et cela est dû à la rareté du vélin qui

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


était utilisé, surtout au Moyen Âge, à cause de sa blancheur et sa finesse.

La mission a découvert sur l’une des pages du manuscrit le nom « NF arab 8 » et trois textes écrits l’un sur l’autre, dont le plus ancien remonte au Ve siècle. Il s’agit de plusieurs ordonnances médicales écrites par le célèbre médecin grec HIPPOCRATE. Sur cette page, deux autres textes toujours médicaux et aussi en grec ont été rédigés par des savants anonymes.

Une autre page découverte, remontant au IXe siècle, renfermait un texte en arabe du célèbre médecin grec Claude GALIEN, rédigé sur des messages religieux de saint Paul de Tarse, qui datent du Ve siècle. Lors de ces travaux, une ancienne copie de la Bible en syriaque et des légendes écrites en grec concernant de célèbres personnalités ont été découvertes.

Le monastère de Sainte-Catherine, inscrit en 2002 sur la liste du patrimoine mondial de l’Unesco, abrite de nombreux manuscrits de palimpsestes et une collection de manuscrits du Sinaï. Cette collection, qui est la plus ancienne et la plus importante après celle du Vatican, compte 3 300 manuscrits, dont les deux tiers sont en grec. Le reste est principalement en arabe, en syriaque, en géorgien et en slave. (Nasma Réda et Doaa Elhami, « Retour sur les principales révélations de cette année remarquable », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 3 janvier 2018).

- -

Le président de l’Administration centrale pour la restauration et la maintenance archéologiques, Dr Gharîb Sunbul, a annoncé que des travaux de restauration et de nettoyage sont en cours dans la salle 1 du temple de Dandara, ainsi qu’au plafond et aux parois de la salle 2. Il s’agit de retirer la couche épaisse de suie qui couvre la plupart des décorations. L’ouverture de la salle 1 est prévue le 3 mars prochain à l’occasion des fêtes du gouvernorat de Qinâ. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Restauration du temple de Dandara », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 3 janvier 2018).

- -

Dans le cadre de la campagne lancée par le ministre des Antiquités pour accomplir les travaux de construction du Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) de Gîza, le touriste américain Robert MASSI a été le premier donataire, avec une contribution de 1 000 dollars. MASSI est arrivé la semaine dernière au Caire et a été accompagné de Târiq Tawfîq, superviseur du projet du GEM, pour une visite du site. Au terme de la visite, MASSI a exprimé son souhait d’assister à l’inauguration du musée, prévue fin 2018. (« Don généreux pour le Musée de Gîza », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 3 janvier 2018).

- -

The mummified head

The Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities is set to recover from the US three fragments from three different mummies that had been stolen and smuggled out of Egypt in the early 20th century.

Sha‘bân ‘Abd al-Gawwâd, supervisor-general of the ministry’s Repatriation Department, told Ahram Online that the fragments were seized in Manhattan when their owner tried to sell them.

‘Abd al-Gawwâd says that the fragments, which are in a very good conservation condition, consist of two hands and a head from three mummies.

One of the hands

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


The fragments had been bought by an American citizen in 1927 from an antiquities worker who stole them from an illegal excavation at an archaeological site in the Valley of the Kings in Luxor.

The second hand

The ministry has authenticated the fragments, which are being recovered in accordance with Egyptian Antiquities law number 117/1983 and its amendment number 3 for 2010.

“The fragments are now in the possession of American authorities, and will be handed over to the Egyptian embassy on 8 January at a large celebration in New York,” ‘Abd al-Gawwâd said. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egyptian mummy fragments to be recovered from New York”, Ahram Online, January 3, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie récupère 3 fragments de momies volés aux États-Unis », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 3 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « New York restitue 3 fragments de momies », Sada al-Balad, 3 janvier ; “Egyptian consulate in US retrieves 3 smuggled artifacts”, Egypt Independent, January 3).

- -

Dans l’entretien avec l’Hebdo, le ministre des Antiquités, Khâlid al-‘Inânî, commente la

multitude des découvertes archéologiques faites en 2017.

Al-Ahram Hebdo : Pour quelle raison avez-vous intitulé l’année 2017 « année des découvertes archéologiques » ?

Khâlid al-‘Inânî : 2017 a commencé par de grandes découvertes, et cela s’est poursuivi au cours de l’année pour couvrir presque toutes les époques de l’histoire égyptienne. En outre, nous avons effectué des fouilles aux quatre coins de l’Égypte — au nord comme au sud, à l’est comme à l’ouest — sans nous arrêter et avons déterré de plus en plus de trésors antiques. Dans le même contexte, la moindre découverte, aussi petite soit-elle, a été publiée. En tant qu’égyptologue, je pense, en effet, que tout objet découvert, quelles que soient ses dimensions, est d’une valeur exceptionnelle et d’une grande importance archéologique et historique. Les publications scientifiques relatives aux découvertes de cette année de fouilles ont ainsi été aussi riches que les découvertes elles-mêmes.

— Pouvons-nous dire que le grand nombre de découvertes est dû aux nombreuses missions archéologiques ?

— Certainement. Les missions archéologiques actives en Égypte ont beaucoup coopéré avec celles du ministère des Antiquités pour mettre au jour ces joyaux historiques. En fait, on recense actuellement 250 missions scientifiques en Égypte, dont 12 égyptiennes, les autres étant des missions étrangères ou conjointes. En tête de la liste des 24 pays présents, on trouve la France avec 49 missions, puis les États-Unis avec 40 missions et l’Allemagne avec 34 missions.

— Vu cette riche activité archéologique, allez-vous réfléchir à augmenter le nombre des missions ?

— Le ministère des Antiquités a toujours les bras grands ouverts pour toute mission scientifique sérieuse désirant collaborer avec le ministère, à condition qu’elle s’engage à suivre les règlements et les procédures administratives et scientifiques imposées par le ministère. Elles sont alors les bienvenues.

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


— D’après vous, quels sont les sites prometteurs pour 2018 ?

— Les missions ont travaillé sur des sites dans l’ensemble du pays. Bien que le plus grand nombre de découvertes ait été fait à Aswân, ce gouvernorat vient, selon moi, après des sites plus riches comme Louqsor, Tûna al-Gabal (Minyâ) ou Dahshûr. L’Égypte cache encore bien des trésors dans ses territoires et nous surprend chaque jour.

— L’année 2017 était-elle riche seulement en matière de découvertes ou aussi d’un autre point de vue archéologique ?

— Non, nous avons travaillé en parallèle dans tous les domaines archéologiques. Il y a eu lieu la réouverture du musée d’Art islamique et l’inauguration du Musée national de la Civilisation égyptienne (NMEC), deux des grands défis relevés en 2017. Nous comptons aussi des réussites au niveau des expositions, que ce soit en Égypte, avec celles qui se tiennent au Musée Égyptien du Caire, ou à l’étranger, avec l’exposition intitulée « l’âge d’or des bâtisseurs des pyramides », qui a fait le tour du Japon pendant plus de huit mois et a vu affluer des milliers de visiteurs. Et n’oublions pas le domaine de la restitution des pièces antiques égyptiennes sorties du pays d’une manière illégale. Nous avons réussi à en récupérer plus de 586 de différents pays. Le bilan est donc satisfaisant dans tous les domaines.

— Une suggestion pour intituler l’année 2018 ?

— Ce sera une année de « poursuite des découvertes archéologiques » et « d’inauguration de grands projets ». À commencer par le transport de la statue colossale de Ramsès II au Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) en préparation de l’ouverture de celui-ci. (Nasma Réda, « Khâlid al-‘Inânî : L’Égypte cache encore bien des trésors », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 3 janvier 2018).

- -

Jeudi 4 janvier 2018

La bibliothèque enfin restaurée. (Photo : Ministère des antiquités)

After three years of restoration work the Library of St Catherine’s Monastery in Sinai, considered the second after the Vatican Library in Rome in terms of the importance of its manuscript collections, has been reopened to the public along with the Mosaic of Transfiguration in the main church. The opening ceremony was attended by Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî, South Sinai Governor Khâlid Fu’âd and St Catherine’s Monastery Archbishop Dimetriose DAMYANOS.

During the ceremony al-‘Inânî described Sinai as “a source of inspiration that has radiated across civilisations, both regionally and globally”. “St Catherine’s Monastery combines Judaism, Christianity and Islam. This is what we could call the genius of Egypt and its reflection of the harmony between its religious components and its great people,” he said.

Muhammad ‘Abd al-Latîf, assistant to the minister and head of the Coptic and Islamic Antiquities Sector at the ministry, explained that the conservation work had started in 2014 and been carried out under the supervision of the ministry with funds provided by the monastery. It included the development of the eastern side of the library, upgrading the architecture of the library façade, and consolidating and conserving the Justinian Walls dating back to the sixth century CE.

According to Archbishop DAMYANOS, the sixth-century library houses thousands of centuries-old manuscripts including a hand-written copy of the New Testament as well as

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


thousands of ancient books and scrolls that date back over 700 years.

The restored eastern side of the library, he said, houses the world’s second-largest collection of early codices and manuscripts. “The renovation work has not yet been completed as what has been opened is only the first phase of the project,” advisor to the archbishop Tony Kazamia said.

During the restoration, a sixth-century CE medical recipe by the renowned ancient Greek physician HIPPOCRATES was found. The manuscript is a palimpsest written on leather and bears parts of a medical recipe attributed to HIPPOCRATES and three other medical recipes written by an anonymous scribe, one of which contains drawings of medicinal herbs. The second layer of writing on the manuscript is a text from the Bible.

The Mosaic of Transfiguration

‘Abd al-Latîf said that palimpsests were often written on leather and are manuscripts in which several layers of writing are present on top of each other. In this case, the first layer of writing was erased in order that the leather could be used again.

“This was due to the high cost of leather at the time,” he said. The monastery library contains many palimpsests in addition to its 6,000 other manuscripts, among them 600 written in Arabic, Greek, Ethiopian, Coptic, Armenian and Syriac. They are mainly historical, geographical and philosophical, with the oldest dating to the fourth century CE.

Ahmad al-Nimr, a member of the Scientific Office of the Ministry of Antiquities, said that the Mosaic of Transfiguration that has been newly restored is one of the oldest and most

beautiful in the Middle East. It dates to the ninth century and covers a surface of about 46 square metres painted with precious materials such as gold and silver.

The mosaic depicts Jesus and the prophets Elijah and Moses. It is surrounded by 31 medallions containing pictures of other prophets, in addition to two medallions representing Jonah and the Virgin Mary.

Over the centuries, the mosaic has suffered damage from earthquakes and intense visitation by pilgrims from all corners of the world. The Greek Orthodox Monastery of St Catherine, one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world and home of the biblical burning bush, is located on Mount Sinai, the place where God appeared to Moses and gave him the Ten Commandments.

It has also attracted Christians of all sects who make the difficult journey to see the Bible’s holiest mountain. Mount Sinai is of religious significance to Muslims, who believe that this was where the Prophet Muhammad’s flying horse al-Burâq descended from heaven. Mount Sinai, also known as Mount Moses, holds an important place in the hearts of all Egyptians.

L’une des fresques de la bibliothèque.

(Photo : Ministère des antiquités)

The St Catherine’s Monastery contains a distinguished basilica built in 530 CE by the Byzantine emperor Justinian on the site of an earlier chapel founded by St Helena, mother of the emperor Constantine the Great. The

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


monastery’s long existence and virtually intact collections of icons and manuscripts can be attributed to the security of its location, tucked away in the barren rocky landscape of South Sinai.

In 2002 the site was placed on the World Heritage List overseen by the UN cultural body UNESCO as a “mixed property, cultural and natural”, meaning that the monastery and the area around it are protected because of their heritage value. The area encompasses some 601 square km within the 5,750 square km area of the St Catherine’s National Park. (Nevine El-Aref, “Restoration at St Catherine’s”, Al-Ahram Weekly, January 4, 2018. Voir également Nasma Réda, « À la rencontre de l’Histoire », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 10 janvier).

- -

Le directeur exécutif de l’Unité des reproductions archéologiques, Dr ‘Amr al-Tîbî, s’est vanté du grand succès réalisé en 2017 au service de la promotion touristique. La vente des reproductions a atteint la somme de 3,1 millions de livres égyptiennes, à travers les trois points de vente situés au Musée Égyptien, au musée d’Art islamique et au Musée national de la Civilisation égyptienne (NMEC). (Ahmad Mansûr, « Les répliques archéologiques ont rapporté 3 millions L.E. en 2017 », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 4 janvier 2018).

- -

Khâlid al-‘Inânî and Stéphane ROMATET at the exhibition

The Dayr al-Madîna area is an exceptional archaeological site on Luxor’s west bank displaying the residential houses and necropolis of those working on the royal tombs along with their rich artefacts.

The Cairo exhibition was inaugurated last week by Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî and French Ambassador to Egypt Stéphane ROMATET and will last until mid-February. It highlights a century of French excavations, research and study in Dayr al-Madîna by displaying for the first time a collection of 52 objects unearthed or previously stored in the Egyptian Museum but never put on show before along with documents and photographs from the archives of the Institut français d’archéologie orientale (IFAO) in Cairo.

It was conceived in partnership between the Ministry of Antiquities, the University of Paul-Valéry Montpellier III, in France, and the IFAO.

Head of the Museums Sector at the ministry Ilhâm Salâh told Al-Ahram Weekly that the artefacts reflected the daily lives, faith and funerary rituals of the Dayr al-Madîna workmen. Among the most important objects are a statue of Sennedjem, lintels from the tombs of the Pharaohs Amenhotep I and II, and painted limestone ostraca (limestone or clay fragments).

The exhibition is divided into three sections. The first covers aspects of the royal tomb builders’ daily lives, including leisure, literature, craft practices and their relationships to power. “The daily lives of the craftsmen and their families became familiar to us thanks to the discovery of their village, which was excavated by French archaeologist Bernard BRUYÈRE in 1934-35,” said exhibition organiser Hanane Gaber.

An ostraca

She said that BRUYÈRE had meticulously reconstructed the layouts of the houses and

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


their architectural elements and had copied the hieroglyphic texts found within them. The dexterity of these workers is reflected in the quality of their funerary objects, and the Dayr al-Madîna sculptors’ skill is illustrated by the fineness of the Sennedjem statuette.

During their leisure time, Gaber said, the artisans drew freely on ostraca. Some of these drawings are satirical, as in the case of an ostraca in the exhibition depicting a cat assuming the surprising role of a goose-keeper, or another showing a monkey imitating the attitude of a scribe.

The second section of the exhibition is devoted to religious and funerary practices. These are known through paintings on tomb walls and the rich funerary furniture uncovered inside the tombs of Kha and Sennedjem and in certain burials in the eastern cemetery at Dayr al-Madîna. BRUYÈRE uncovered several coffins, the most beautiful being that of a woman called Noub.

A relief

Besides the god Amun and his triad of official deities, several other gods and goddesses were worshiped at Dayr al-Madîna, such as Ptah and Meretseger as well as others from Egyptian provinces such as Khnum, Satis and Anukis from Elephantine near Aswân. The artisans also worshipped the Pharaohs themselves, and among these Amenhotep I and his mother are particularly prominent.

A lintel from the temple of Ramses II at Dayr al-Madîna showing the Pharaohs Amenhotep I and II, each venerating a sphinx representing the god Amun-Re, is on display. “It is likely that Ramses II had this lintel carved to honour the two dead kings,” Ilhâm said.

A coffin

The third section illustrates the excavation work and research at the site. It gathers documents from the IFAO showing the evolution of the excavations, the current work of preservation, and some examples of work in progress. Videos showing the excavation work at Dayr al-Madîna from BRUYÈRE until today are also on show along with a 3D digital model of the site itself. (Nevine El-Aref, “Artisan work on display”, Al-Ahram Weekly, January 4, 2018).

- -

A drawing depicting the birth of Jesus Christ from the walls of a

Nubian Coptic church

‘Âtif Nagîb, director of the Coptic Museum in Cairo, is committed to spreading awareness about the many forgotten unknown pages of Egypt’s Coptic history.

It was in the mid-1960s that Nagîb was set to join the Archaeology Department at Asyût University in Upper Egypt with the hope of studying Coptic history and archaeology. However, to his dismay, particularly for someone born and brought up in a Coptic environment in the Upper Egyptian city of Aswân, there was no department that specialised in Coptic archaeology and history at this or any other university in Egypt at the time.

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


“There were only two departments; one for Pharaonic and one for Islamic history, art and archaeology,” Nagîb recalled.

After graduation, Nagîb did not give up on his ambition to specialise in Coptic history, even though it was something that was not given serious attention in society or schoolbooks at the time. His time spent at a Coptic school meant that Nagîb was allowed entry into an otherwise overlooked era of Egyptian history.

“It was there that I developed a serious interest in learning more about this era, which did not receive serious attention at the time,” he said.

At the Institute for Coptic Studies, which is affiliated with the Coptic Cathedral in Cairo, Nagîb found a place to pursue his interest and receive a degree in Coptic archaeology. This was the beginning of a long path that led him to a PhD in the same discipline.

“It was a long and revealing learning process that allowed me to find out a great deal of information about Coptic history, not only in religious terms as many might think, but also in terms of learning more about the history of Egypt. The country was introduced to Christianity in the first century CE and evolved to be predominantly Christian, essentially Coptic Orthodox, until the day [Muslim military commander] ‘Amr Ibn al-‘Âs conquered Egypt in the seventh century CE,” Nagîb recalled.

During these years, Nagîb developed an interest in the Christian era of Nubia in particular, which he describes as “a truly overlooked phase in the history of this country.”

There is one narrative that is predominant in Egyptian culture about Ibn al-‘Âs’s conquest of Egypt in 642 CE, which says that the country’s Copts were suffering from discrimination at the hands of the country’s Byzantine rulers and that the following years were marked by a general, even if interrupted, tolerance by Egypt’s new Muslim rulers for the Coptic population.

Icon of St Barbra

Nagîb is not willing to contest this narrative. He merely says that it is “one among other” versions of what happened, and that the latter should also be examined in order to understand the history of the country.

“There was discrimination against the Copts under Byzantine rule, but there were also Muslim rulers who discriminated against the Copts,” Nagîb said.

He added that “what should not be forgotten is that for the most part people do not learn much about the history of the Copts even before, and not just after, the Arab conquest, and this is a function of a lack of general awareness.”

Nagîb is convinced that many Copts today might not be sufficiently informed about the history of Christianity in Egypt.

“I know for a fact that not many are aware of the Christian period in Nubia, which lasted from the sixth to the 14th century CE,” he argued.

“We hardly even stop to think about the fact that many of today’s Muslim Nubians carry what would otherwise be typical Coptic names like Dawoud, Elias and Yacoub, and of course Mariam, which is more shared by Muslims,” Nagîb said.

He noted that the archaeological excavations of the churches of Nubia, both Upper Nubia in today’s Sudan and Lower Nubia in Egypt, are not given sufficient

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


attention by the media, “not even when the archaeological missions arrived upon the construction of the Aswân High Dam in the mid-1960s to save as many Nubian monuments as possible before the water covered what were once the lands of Nubia.”

“It is not really there in the newspapers or on TV, and it is not there in the history curriculum, so where are people supposed to learn about the Coptic history of Egypt? Nowhere, unless you are a Copt who attends cultural activities at your church,” Nagîb lamented.

This lack of communication about Coptic history is not made up for among history and archaeology students because it was only recently that universities started to give serious attention to Coptic studies.

“The trouble is that we act as if Coptic history is a matter of religion that only interests followers of the Coptic faith. But this is untrue because it is part of our wider history and our culture,” he said.

According to Nagîb, the fact that Coptic history is not mentioned in textbooks and that there is limited interest in encouraging students to visit the Coptic Museum, not to mention the many Coptic archaeological sites, is an unfortunate situation that creates a lack of awareness in the wider population about an integral part of the history of their country and the culture of their fellow citizens who follow the Coptic faith.

Today, Nagîb says, the many pages of Coptic history are essentially kept in strictly Coptic bodies. Apart from the Coptic Museum and sites such as the Hanging Church in Old Cairo, for example, Coptic history is kept by bodies such as the Coptic Cathedral, along with its associated Institute for Coptic Studies, the Association for Coptic Archaeology, the Coptic Culture Centre and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina Centre for Coptic Studies.

“Today, there is a bit more awareness in the media about the celebration of Coptic feasts, especially Christmas, but beyond that there are only a few reminders of the Coptic contribution to the culture and history of the

country,” Nagîb said. “This is so even though the Copts are not living in ghettos and have never done so, even if historically there were areas of higher density.”

The way out of this alienation from Egypt’s Coptic history is to allow people to learn about it, he said.

“I know that it is hard to change long-established norms, but we could start by some obvious and uncontroversial steps, such as including the flight of the Holy Family into Egypt in history textbooks as well as prominent Coptic figures over the centuries, including under Muslim rule,” Nagîb said.

He added that there was no reason to believe that anyone would object to the inclusion of a few lines in the history books about the arrival of Christianity in Egypt or the establishment of the first monasteries or a biography of Pope Kyrollos IV, who started Coptic schools in Upper Egypt for girls.

“It is unfair to deny people knowledge of the history of the Copts and then to blame these same people for their lack of affinity towards the Copts. I believe education is essential if we are really committed to understanding one another better, and this is why the Coptic Museum tries to make use of every opportunity to welcome more visitors of all age brackets and backgrounds,” Nagîb said. (Dina Ezzat, “INTERVIEW: Promoting the rediscovery of Egypt’s Coptic era”, Ahram Online, January 4, 2018).

- -

Samedi 6 janvier 2018

Le Comité permanent des antiquités égyptiennes a approuvé une nouvelle prospection radar à l’intérieur de la tombe de Toutankhamon à Louqsor. L’Università di Torino commencera ses travaux en février prochain. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Poursuite des recherches dans la tombe de Toutankhamon », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 6 janvier 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie poursuit la recherche de la chambre latérale de la tombe de Toutankhamon », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 6

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


janvier ; Ahmad Abû Shûsha, « Zâhî Hawwâs : La présence de la tombe de Néfertiti derrière celle de Toutankhamon est un mensonge », Sada al-Balad, 29 janvier ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « 3ème relevé radar dans la tombe de Toutankhamon », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 1er février).

- -

Lundi 8 janvier 2018

The Ministry of Antiquities announced the discovery of an artefact in a parking lot in Akhmîm, Suhâg governorate, during a drilling operation to develop the site.

The ministry said in a statement on Monday that the archaeological committee, which was formed under the chairmanship of Gamâl ‘Abd al-Nâsir, confirmed that the piece found in the parking is an official historical artefact.

The discovered piece is part of a black granite statue of King Amenhotep III from the Eighteenth Dynasty, said ‘Abd al-Nâsir.

Preliminary examination showed that the statue depicts the with his left foot forward, a tradition commonly employed while building statues of ancient Egyptian kings, said ‘Abd al-Nâsir.

On his right foot, are hieroglyphic writings, which represent the coronation and birth names of King Amenhotep III, he added.

The artefact was transferred to Suhâg Museum for restoration. (“Fragment of Black granite statue of King Amenhotep III discovered in Suhâg parking lot”, Egypt Independent, January 8, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Découverte d’un socle d’une statue antique lors des travaux d’aménagement d’un parking à Akhmîm », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 6 janvier ; Ahmad Mansûr,

« Mise au jour d’un fragment d’une statue d’Amenhotep III sous un parking », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 8 janvier ; Ahmad ‘Uthmân, « Découverte d’une pièce archéologique sous un parking à Akhmîm », al-Wafd, 8 janvier ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Découverte d’Amenhotep sous un parking à Akhmîm », al-Ahrâm, 9 janvier).

- -

Une nouvelle recherche scientifique canadienne, menée sur la momie d’un enfant vieille de 500 ans, a détecté le premier cas connu de variole. L’analyse ADN a révélé que cet enfant, dont le corps a été trouvée dans l’église San Domenico Maggiore à Naples, était également atteint d’hépatite B.

L’équipe de chercheurs espère que leurs résultats pourraient éclairer les origines de

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


cette maladie. Sachant que la majorité des enfants de l’époque était atteint d’hépatite B, même si la souche de cette maladie a légèrement muté au cours du demi-siècle écoulé. Selon les chercheurs, 350 millions d’individus dans le monde souffrent aujourd’hui de cette maladie. (Basant Gamîl, « La momie d’un enfant révèle des informations importantes sur l’hépatite B », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 8 janvier 2018).

- -


An Egyptian archaeological mission has unearthed the remains of several Greco-Roman tombs, including a “distinguished” tombstone, in the eastern cemetery of the ancient city of Alexandria.

The archaeologists made the finds at the al-‘Abd site, which falls within the Hellenistic cemetery, located on Alexandria’s seashore.

A pot lid

Mustafa Wazîrî Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities said that the remains include a collection of offering vessels, and lamps decorated with scenes of Ancient Egyptian and Greco-Roman deities.

“But the most important item of this discovery is a very distinguished tombstone that was once used to close one of the cemetery’s burial shafts,” Wazîrî told Ahram Online.

He explained that the tombstone is decorated with scenes and inscriptions made of a mixture of sand and lime on a flat background representing the facade of an ancient Egyptian temple. The scenes depict a staircase leading to the entrance of the temple and two columns holding up the entrance’s roof. The staircase leads to a set of double doors, one of which is half-open and bears a winged sun-disk decoration, he said.

The decorated tombstone

Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî, head of the Ancient Egyptian Antiquities Sector, said that this tombstone is an evolution of the idea of a false door to mislead thieves, drawing them away from the real door of the tomb. The false-door idea was widespread in Ancient Egypt.

The newly discovered tombstone, which was in a poor condition, is now undergoing restoration.

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


The al-‘Abd site is located within the eastern cemetery of the ancient city of Alexandria, which contains a number of burials dating back to the Hellenistic era. (Nevine El-Aref, “‘Distinguished’ Greco-Roman tombstone unearthed at Alexandria cemetery”, Ahram Online, January 9, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Nouvelle découverte archéologique à Masrah al-’Abd en Alexandrie », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 8 janvier ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte de vases romaines en Alexandrie », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 8 janvier ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Nouvelle découverte archéologique à Masrah al-‘Abd », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 8 janvier ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Mise au jour d’antiquités gréco-romaines sur le site de masrah al-’Abd », al-Ahrâm, 9 janvier).

- -

Après 9 mois d’investigation, le Parquet de Gîza a renvoyé devant la cour d’assises l’affaire du meurtre d’une fillette dans la région al-Saff. La mère de la fillette avait prétendu que cette dernière s’était étouffée durant son sommeil. En réalité, c’est son père et son oncle qui l’ont étranglée avec une écharpe, afin de la présenter comme un sacrifice humain aux djinns pour découvrir une cache archéologique. (Muhammad al-Qammâsh, « Un père et un oncle traduits devant la cour d’assises », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 9 janvier 2018. Voir également Amânî Zâyyid, « Les chercheurs des trésors égorgent les

enfants et les présentent en offrande aux djinns », al-Wafd, 20 janvier).

- -


Vue générale de l’église nubienne.

(Photo : Mission soudano-polonaise)

Fouilles, nettoyage, restauration, consolidation et enregistrement, tels sont les travaux archéologiques dans le monastère de Ghazâla, situé dans Wâdî Abû Dum en Haute-Nubie (Soudan), qui en a fait l’objet de 2012 à 2017. Ils ont été effectués par la mission soudano-polonaise dirigée par Artur OBLUSKI, directeur du Centre of Mediterranean Archaeology in Cairo (PCMA) au Caire.

De nombreux éléments archéologiques ont été découverts, qui ont enrichi le site et donc augmenté son importance. Le point fort a été la mise au jour d’une petite église annexe de l’église principale de Katholikon. Si cette dernière a été construite selon le style « basilique », l’église découverte par la mission détient, elle, tous les éléments caractéristiques d’une église nubienne. Elle a ainsi été bâtie en briques crues. « Les caractéristiques prouvent que les constructeurs étaient des Nubiens qui ont repris la vie monastique et son austérité des Égyptiens, qui étaient leurs premiers maîtres monastiques », explique OBLUSKI.

La date de construction se situe vers la fin du Xe et le début du XIe siècles. Malheureusement, le monastère ne renferme pas le moindre document. En effet, les moines ont emmené avec eux tous les documents monastiques lorsqu’ils ont quitté l’endroit pour le monastère de Qasr al-Wizz, situé dans la Basse-Nubie égyptienne. Néanmoins, le

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


monastère est riche en trésors archéologiques. Un manuscrit des archives patriarcales d’Alexandrie indique que le premier pape du monastère de Ghazâla était le roi de Makourie, Merkurios. La mission a découvert des inscriptions sur le mur externe de la petite église, notamment la prière « La Terre de Dieu ».

Les vestiges de l’église principale de style basilique.

(Photo : Mission soudano-polonaise)

Au fur et à mesure de ses travaux, la mission a reconstitué les détails de la vie des moines au sein du monastère. Elle a ainsi retrouvé le réfectoire ainsi que des récipients de cuisine et des cellules latérales. Par ailleurs, il y a des signes qui indiquent que le monastère a été élargi et que le nombre de moines a augmenté pour atteindre 36 personnes. L’une des cellules renferme un conteneur doré qui comprend des pots conservés sur lesquels sont inscrits les noms des 40 martyrs qui ont été persécutés en Égypte en l’an 320. Cette commémoration a été effectuée 600 ans plus tard.

Les archéologues ont, par ailleurs, mis au jour un espace rectangulaire dont l’utilisation est encore inconnue. « Peut-être s’agissait-il d’une blanchisserie ou d’un endroit où l’on traitait le cuir », explique le directeur de la mission, qui assure que les moines produisaient eux-mêmes leurs vêtements. La mission a de plus mis au jour un complexe industriel pour la production de fer. Parmi les trouvailles les plus importantes, on compte aussi la découverte d’un cimetière préservé sur le site, avec des épitaphes. Il témoigne d’une certaine influence égyptienne. En effet, les archéologues ont remarqué que les têtes des défunts étaient protégées par une

structure rectangulaire dans leurs tombes. « Cette tradition funéraire était répandue en Égypte aux débuts du christianisme », explique OBLUSKI.

Autre trouvaille précieuse : un morceau d’argile sur lequel est écrit l’alphabet copte. « Cela montre que les moines enseignaient la langue copte dans le monastère », souligne OBLUSKI. Les archéologues ont, en outre, découvert le nom du roi Merkurios, inscrit en hiéroglyphes sur l’une des épitaphes. Les moines nubiens excellaient dans la langue et l’écriture égyptiennes.

Les archéologues ont aussi découvert une jarre en verre de style syrien. « C’est une évidence archéologique importante indiquant que les moines du monastère entretenaient des relations économiques et commerciales avec la Syrie », dit OBLUSKI.

Parmi tous les monastères nubiens, celui de Ghazâla occupe donc une place unique, vu sa localisation sur la rive du Nil, ses relations économiques et les nombreux signes archéologiques qui montrent l’influence égyptienne sur le monachisme nubien.

Construit sur une superficie de 6 450 m2 dans le désert de la Haute-Nubie, le monastère de Ghazâla regroupe une grande église appelée Katholikon, une deuxième plus petite et plus récente, un réfectoire et ses annexes, des cellules, une sorte de buanderie, un complexe industriel et un cimetière. Il a été construit au VIe siècle par les premiers chrétiens, notamment égyptiens, qui ont construit les premières églises nubiennes. Le monastère a été bâti avec des pierres locales provenant des alentours.

D’après les analyses au radiocarbone, la moitié inférieure des murs de l’église principale qui suit le style basilique a été érigée par des blocs de gré durant la seconde moitié du VIIe siècle. Quant à la moitié supérieure des murs, elle est construite de brique rouge, explique OBLUSKI, directeur du Centre of Mediterranean Archaeology in Cairo (PCMA) au Caire. Ultérieurement, l’église a été renouvelée et recouverte d’un dôme. Les sols sont dallés de gré, de marbre et de granite. Tous les murs de l’église sont couverts de

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


plâtre sauf le sanctuaire. Les murs étaient décorés de peintures qui existent encore seulement dans la pièce nord-est. Malgré le manque de documentation sur ce monastère, les récits des voyageurs ont transmis son histoire puisqu’il était fréquemment visité au cours des XIXe et XXe siècles.

MERCURE, appelé aussi MERKURIOS, était le roi du royaume de Makourie, au nord du Soudan, de 697 à 710. Il a réussi à réunir pour la première fois les royaumes de Makourie et de Nobatie. Chrétien, il a subordonné l’Église de Nubie au patriarche d’Alexandrie. Durant son règne, de nombreux monastères et églises ont été construits. MERCURE fortifiait les établissements religieux pour les protéger contre les attaques des musulmans et des nomades.

Qualifié de « nouveau Constantin » dans les annales du patriarche copte, le roi MERCURE a joué un rôle important pour ce qui est de l’introduction du christianisme en Haute-Nubie. Il a été, de plus, le Ier pape du monastère de Ghazâla. Son nom est inscrit dans la cathédrale de Faras au nord du Soudan, dont il apparaît comme le maître d’œuvre.

La cathédrale date de 707, ce qui correspond à la onzième année de son règne. Son nom est aussi inscrit sur la pierre de fondation de l’église de Taifa en Haute-Nubie, datant, elle, de 710. (Doaa Elhami, « Ghazâla, cité monastique », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 10 janvier 2018).

- -

Le Comité permanent des antiquités islamiques et coptes a approuvé l’enregistrement sur la liste du patrimoine du fort al-Yusrâ, situé dans la région al-Wardiyân

en Alexandrie. Ce fort bien conservé date de l’époque de Muhammad ‘Alî. Ce bâtiment fortifié est entouré de douves et doté de pont-levis. (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Classement du fort al-Yusrâ situé en Alexandrie », Sada al-Balad, 10 janvier 2018).

- -


The façade of al-Mu’ayyid Bimâristân

Three Mameluke-period monuments, the al-Mu’ayyid Bîmâristân, the Tikiyya al-Bustâmî and the Darb al-Labbâna Gate in Islamic Cairo are to be reopened to the public next week after restoration work.

A Bîmâristân is a Mameluke hospital, while a Tikiyya is a Sufi charitable building. The buildings have been shrouded in scaffolding for the past three years as restoration work continues, with it being slated to finally come off next week.

Darb al-Labbâna gate during and after restoration

The monuments, like others in heavily populated areas, were suffering from environmental dangers, including air pollution, high subsoil water levels, high levels of humidity, water leakage, the effects of a decayed sewerage system installed 100 years ago, and the adverse effects of the 1992

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


earthquake that increased the number of cracks in their walls, leading in some cases to partial collapse.

“One of the most serious causes of the damage to the buildings has been encroachment from the monuments’ neighbours who used the Tikiyya for example as a residential building and the bîmâristân as a garbage dump,” Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Azîz, director of the Historic Cairo Rehabilitation Project that supervised the work, told Al-Ahram Weekly.

He said the walls of the three monuments had cracked and partly collapsed, masonry was damaged, and the condition of the ceilings was critical. Decorations were heavily damaged and several parts were missing, while most of the flooring was broken.

Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî said the restoration had been carried out according to the latest scientific methods. “Every effort was made to ensure that all the original architectural features were retained,” he said, adding that the restoration of the buildings had had important advantages in that individual monuments were being preserved for future generations and the entire neighbourhood was being revived and upgraded.

The façade of al-Mu’ayyid Bîmâristân

‘Abd al-‘Azîz said that the aim of the restoration was mainly to strengthen and consolidate the monuments and protect them from future damage. The walls were reinforced, cracks were treated, façades were consolidated, missing and decayed stones were replaced, and masonry was cleaned and desalinated. Tilted pillars and walls were readjusted to their original positions, broken

woodwork was re-installed and missing parts were replaced with others of the same shape, size and material.

The ceilings were consolidated and insulated with special material to prevent the leakage of rainwater into the monuments. A special system was also designed to accumulate rainwater in one place and feed it into the main sewage system.

The areas surrounding the three monuments were cleaned, restored and upgraded in order to be venues hosting cultural events as well as for holding workshops to raise the cultural awareness of their inhabitants.

The al-Mu’ayyid Bîmâristân was built by one of the most important Circassian Mameluke sultans to rule Egypt, al-Mu’ayyid Shaykh al-Mahmûdî, who reigned between 1418 and 1420 CE. The Bîmâristân is the second public hospital still remaining from the period after that of the Mameluke sultan Qalâwwûn built in 1284 in al-Mu‘izz Street in Islamic Cairo.

The inner section and the façade of Tikiyya al-Bustâmî

The al-Mu’ayyid Bîmâristân is noted for its monumental scale, unprecedented in a civic building, which was clearly inspired by the nearby free-standing sultan Hasan madrasa, and also for its portal, which is set in a distinguished Persian character façade. The portal has a muqarnas hood (stalactite decoration) and a window with a pair of colonnades featuring a snake as a symbol of healing.

The Bîmâristân is located in the Darb al-Labbâna area on the site of the sultan al-Ashraf Sha‘bân madrasa, founded in 1367 and demolished by sultan Farag Ibn Barqûq in

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


1411 and used as a military garrison to protect the nearby Citadel if it came under siege during times of trouble.

al-Mu’ayyid Shaykh al-Mahmûdî rebuilt the Bîmâristân on the remains of the al-Ashrafiyya madrasa (school). The building is a shell and has lost many sections of its outlying structure. The area in front was levelled in 2005 by the then Supreme Council of Antiquities to allow a full view of the façade.

The complex originally included the remains of a mosque, three minarets, two mausoleums and a madrasa. The two-storey structure was divided into male and female sectors, with a timber-roofed middle hall and four iwâns (vaulted open chambers) with pointed arches. A manuscript describes it as originally having 25 chambers plus four secluded rooms for special patients, as well as a pharmacy, library and a small mosque.


Near the entrance there was a sabîl (drinking fountain), a school for orphans and a third smaller mosque. The hospital fell into disuse following the sultan’s death. Today, its upper floor is missing, but the main façade reflects the wonderful proportions and ornamentation of the Mameluke period.

During the restoration work, ‘Abd al-‘Azîz told the Weekly, conservators had stumbled upon a tunnel connecting the Bîmâristân to the Tikiyya al-Bustâmî as well as a cistern under the mosque and a well under the men’s section. A distinguished plaque had been found decorated in light and dark blue elements and bearing the name of al-Mu’ayyid Shaykh al-Mahmûdî in Kuffi Arabic writing.

The Tikiyya al-Bustâmî was originally built by the tenth Circassian and 34th Mameluke

sultan of Egypt, Sayf al-Dîn Abû Sa‘d Gakmak, for Sufis coming from Bukhara in Central Asia in 1443 CE.


‘Abd al-‘Azîz said the Tikiyya was originally a small mosque built by the sultan Muhammad Ibn Qalâwwûn for a Sufi named Taqiy al-Dîn al-Bustâmî from Persia who lived in it until he passed away. It has a central open court, and around it are several structures, among them a small mosque, a madrasa, a garden leading to the nearby Bîmâristân through the newly discovered tunnel.

During the restoration work, engravings revealing calculations and mathematical exercises were uncovered, as well as a cistern and a burial area.

The Darb al-Labbâna Gate was built in limestone during the Baharî Mameluke era and located beside the Tikiyya. It consists of a gate, which is the oldest of those that once marked the entrance to many Islamic City alleys.

The gate has a small-decorated widow with iron bars to allow the entrance of air and light. It is decorated with wooden and stone decorative elements with geometric designs. (Nevine El-Aref, “Monuments reopen”, Al-Ahram Weekly, January 11, 2018. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Inauguration du bîmâristân al-Mu’ayyid, de la tikiyya al-Bustâmî et de Bâb Darb al-Labbâna », Sada al-Balad, 20 janvier ; Nevine El-Aref, “Three Egyptian monuments reopen”, Ahram Online, January 13 ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « al-‘Inânî inaugure le projet de restauration de la zone de Bâb al-Wazîr », Watanî, 21 janvier ; Nasma Réda, « Trois monuments mamelouks retrouvent leur lustre », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 31 janvier).

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


- -

Zâhî Hawwâs and Ivana MAJEROVA (Photo: Ayman Barayez)

The Deputy Chief of Mission of the Slovakia Ambassador to Egypt Ivana MAJEROVA has visited the cemeteries of the builders of the pyramids in the Gîza plateau accompanied by world-renowned archaeologist and discoverer of the cemeteries Zâhî Hawwâs.

He confirmed to her that his discovery proved that builders of the pyramids are the Ancient Egyptians whose names are engraved on the cemeteries. MAJEROVA told to Al-Ahram Weekly how overjoyed she was after visiting the Ancient Egyptian cemeteries and that she is infatuated by ancient Egyptian history. She added that she would definitely return to the Pyramids plateau with a group of 200 Slovakian tourists. (“City Lights”, Al-Ahram Weekly, January 11, 2018. Voir également Nevine El-Aref, “Slovakia Deputy Chief of Mission visits Gîza Plateau”, Ahram Online, January 12).

- -

A Fifth Dynasty royal administrative complex at Tell Idfû and two Ptolemaic era stelae at the Kom Ombo temple are among the finds

Egyptian and American archaeologists unveiled two new discoveries in Aswân,

including a royal administrative complex in the ancient Egyptian city of Tell Idfû and a collection of artefacts in the Kom Ombo temple, according to a statement by Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities.

At the Tell Idfû archaeological site, a joint Egyptian-American archaeological mission with researchers from The University of Chicago has uncovered the late Fifth Dynasty (2498–2345 BCE) administrative complex.

Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, described the newly discovered complex as “the oldest archaeological evidence to be found in Tell Idfû till now.”

Prior to the find, the earliest known evidence at the site dated to the second half of the Sixth Dynasty (2345–2181 BCE), according to Wazîrî.

According to Nadine MOELLER, head of the American mission, the complex sheds light on the royal expeditions organized during the Fifth Dynasty reign of King Djedkare Isesi, who reigned from the late 25th to the mid-24th century BCE.

Gregory MARWARD, the mission’s co-director, pointed out that a collection of 220 mud brick stamps of King Djedkare Isesi were found inside the complex.

The site was also used as a storehouse for goods retrieved on King Isesi’s famous royal

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


expeditions to Wâdî al-Maghâra in South Sinai to extract raw materials, especially copper.

King Isesi also ordered a famous expedition to Punt, an ancient kingdom on the Horn of Africa, to retrieve goods not available in Egypt.

Also found at the site was an official list of the names of the workers who participated in the excavation and mining expeditions, including a commander by the name of "Sementio."

Nubian pottery and shells from the Red Sea were also found, as well as fragmentary evidence of mining activities.

MOELLER told Ahram Online that she considers this the most important discovery at Tell Idfû since the current mission began excavating the site 2014.

Seated statue at Tell Idfû

Meanwhile, an Egyptian archaeological mission working on the dewatering project in Aswân’s Kom Ombo temple has discovered four ancient artefacts on the temple’s western side.

Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî, Head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector at the Ministry, told Ahram Online that the discovered artefacts include a

limestone stele depicting a man and his wife presenting offerings to a seated deity.

The stele measures 40-by-27 cm and the upper part of its left side is missing. A sandstone statue depicting a seated man was also found, as well as two sandstone statues of the god Horus in the form of falcon, which lacks any inscriptions. (Nevine El-Aref, “Archaeologists unveil two major discoveries in Upper Egypt’s Tell Idfû and Kom Ombo”, Ahram Online, January 11, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « 2 nouvelles découvertes archéologiques à Tell Idfû et à Kom Ombo », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 11 janvier ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « 2 nouvelles découvertes archéologiques à Tell Idfû et dans le temple de Kom Ombo », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 11 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « 2 nouvelles découvertes archéologiques couronnent 2018 à Tell Idfû et dans le temple de Kom Ombo », Sada al-Balad, 11 janvier ; Nasma Réda, « Un début d'année riche en découvertes », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 24 janvier).

- -

Vendredi 12 janvier 2018

La présidente du département des musées, Ilhâm Salâh al-Dîn, a affirmé que le Musée Égyptien de Tahrîr conservera sa valeur archéologique malgré le dépouillement de ses collections en faveur du Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) et du musée national de la Civilisation égyptienne (NMEC). Après le transfert vers le GEM de la collection de Toutankhamon, un nouveau scénario muséologique sera élaboré pour le Musée Égyptien. Les masques en or de Tanis remplaceront celui de Toutankhamon. À cela se rajoute le trésor funéraire de Youya et Touya. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le trésor funéraire de Youya et Touya et le masque de Tanis remplaceront la collection de Toutankhamon au Musée Égyptien », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 12 janvier 2018).

- -

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8



Visitors film the light on the historical site of Gîza Pyramids as they

celebrate the New Year in Egypt, Monday, Jan. 1, 2018. (AP)

The Gîza Plateau archaeological site will be open to visitors one hour earlier in the mornings starting on Tuesday as part of a Ministry of Antiquities’ effort to encourage more tourists.

Opening hours will now run from 7:00am to 5:00 pm instead of 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Ashraf Muhyî, director general of the Gîza Plateau site, told Ahram Online that the decision was approved by the board of directors of the Supreme Council of Antiquities.

“These changes aim to make the site available for more time, especially as the country’s tourism season has just started,” Muhyî said.

He said that earlier this month the board of directors approved the extension of visiting hours at the Idfû and Kom Ombo temples in Aswân Governorate through the winter months.

The move was intended to accommodate delays in the arrival of River Nile cruise boats due to the low water levels on the river.

Idfû temple will remain open until 5:00 pm every day instead of 4:00 pm, and for Kom Ombo temple will be open until 9:00 pm instead of 8:00pm. (Nevine El-Aref, “Gîza Plateau will open earlier to accommodate more tourist visitors”, Ahram Online, January 15, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie prolonge les heures d’ouverture officielle des temples d’Idfû et de Kom Ombo », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 2 janvier ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie

prolonge les heures d’ouverture officielle des temples d’Idfû et de Kom Ombo », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 2 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Prolongation des heures d’ouverture des temples d’Idfû et de Kom Ombo », Sada al-Balad, 2 janvier).

- -

A theft was carried out at the Gîza Pyramids’ cemetery of builders, which was opened for visitors in November for the first time since its discovery in 1990 by Egyptian archaeologist and former Antiquities Minister Zâhî Hawwâs.

The incident revealed continued neglect by officials of the Ministry of Antiquities.

Although the Antiquities Ministry maintained secrecy regarding the theft, al-Masrî al-Yawm learned from informed sources that the theft included part of the door of the cemetery of Nefer Theth.

The cemetery of Nefer Theth belongs to the supervisor of the Royal Palace, and was in a good state of preservation.

It has two doors and inscriptions along the walls, according to a statement issued by the Antiquities Ministry in November.

The sources said that the theft occurred at dawn on January 7.

The sources added that the theft was discovered while guards were changing work shifts.

The only punitive action taken by the Ministry of Antiquities was the transfer of the Director of the Pyramids’ area’s administrative security Muhammad Fathî Mansûr to another post as inspector with the Imbâba Antiquities Department.

No action has been taken against the director of the Pyramids area or his deputy.

al-Masrî al-Yawm received a copy of the transfer decision of Mansûr, which did not mention that the reason behind the transfer was the theft.

al-Masrî al-Yawm could not reach the Pyramids area officials for a response.

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


Head of Egypt’s Antiquities Department said that the piece of the stolen door was later found and prosecutors handed it over to the Antiquities Ministry on Monday. It was restored and returned to its place on the door, he said.

al-‘Ashmâwî told al-Masrî al-Yawm that the perpetrator has been arrested. He is a resident of Nazlat al-Sammân area. al-‘Ashmâwî added that the perpetrator broke a piece of up to 30 centimeters from the door of the cemetery.

In an earlier press statement, al-‘Ashmâwî said that the site of the Pyramids builders’ cemetery was developed and equipped to suit its historical and archaeological value and to facilitate the visit process. (“Historical door at Gîza Pyramids stolen”, Egypt Independent, January 15, 2018. Voir également MENA, « Arrestation des voleurs d’une tombe de Gîza », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 9 janvier ; Muhammad Zakî, « Un chamelier et ses complices écroués pour vol d’une tombe archéologique à Gîza », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 9 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le voleur de la tombe de Nefer Theth habite à Nazlat al-Sammân », Sada al-Balad, 15 janvier).

- -


An Egyptian archaeological mission working at an archaeological site in al-‘Alamayn on the northern coast has discovered a rock-hewn tomb that dates to the first and second centuries AD.

The discovery was made during an archaeological survey carried out ahead of infrastructure work in New al-‘Alamayn City.

Ni‘ma Sanad, director-general of the Mârînâ archaeological site and head of the mission, told Ahram Online that the tomb contains of a staircase engraved in rock that leads to the main chamber of the tomb, whose walls hold a number of burial holes called “Loculi.”

The wall with burial holes like catacombs

Sanad says that the southern wall of the tomb is adorned with a Greek religious and artistic decoration called the “welfare horn,” which depicts a horn with a basin decorated with flowers and tree leaves. To the right of the tomb’s entrance is another chamber that was added during a later period.

The welfare horn

Imân ‘Abd al-Khâliq, senior inspector of the site, pointed out that the mission has discovered many artefacts in the tomb, including a collection of coins dating to the period when the tomb was built in addition to many pottery vessels and two lamps. (Nevine El-Aref, “1st century tomb discovered in northern Egypt’s al-‘Alamayn”, Ahram Online,

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


January 17, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie exhume une tombe rupestre datant du 1er siècle à al-‘Alamayn », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 17 janvier ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Une mission égyptienne découvre une tombe rupestre datant du 1er siècle à al-‘Alamayn », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 17 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Mise au jour d’une tombe antique à al-‘Alamayn », Sada al-Balad, 17 janvier ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Découverte d’une tombe rupestre datant des Ier et IIe siècles », Watanî, 18 janvier).

- -

A development project that aims to convert the Kom al-Shuqâfa archaeological site in Alexandria into an open-air museum will involve the creation of a new display scheme for its artefacts.

Kom al-Shuqâfa consists of a series of catacombs, statues and artefacts of the ancient Egyptian funeral cult, with Hellenistic and early imperial Roman influences.

Mustafa Wazîrî, the secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, told Ahram Online that the museum will be divided into four sections; the first devoted to funerary structures, the second to religious buildings; the third to civil edifices; and the fourth will serve as a temporary exhibition.

The first section will have on display a collection of 34 sarcophagi, as well as the "Abundant" tomb and the tomb of "al-Ibrâhîmî" after reconstruction on the tomb — which is currently dismantled and stored in the site’s storehouses — is complete.

The second section will display a collection of sphinx statues and the remains of Semouha temple, which are currently in storage.

The third section will have on display remains of crowns of pillars and the remains of statues and pillars.

Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî, the head of the Ancient Egyptian Antiquities Department, told Ahram Online that the fourth section will display artefacts selected to be displayed at Gîza’s Grand Egyptian Museum, which is set to open, and Alexandria’s Graeco-Roman museum after it is restored.

“After the removal of these artefacts, this section will have on display newly discovered objects from the site,” al-‘Ashmâwî said.

The catacombs of Kom al-Shuqâfa are the largest known Roman burial site in Egypt, with three tiers of tombs that can accommodate up to 300 corpses.

The tombs were originally dug for a single family still practicing the ancient Egyptian religion; however, the architecture of the tombs mirrors the Greco-Roman style.

This can be seen in the wall decoration, which shows a unique combination of Egyptian, Greek and Roman artistic traditions. The tomb was likely expanded later to allow for the burial of more corpses. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egypt to develop Alexandria’s Kom al-Shuqâfa archaeological site into open-air museum”, Ahram Online, January 17, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie projette de transformer Kom al-Shuqâfa en musée à ciel ouvert », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 15 janvier ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie réaménage Kom al-Shuqâfa en vue de sa transformation en un musée à ciel ouvert », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 15 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Projet de transformation de Kom al-Shuqâfa en un musée à ciel ouvert », Sada al-Balad, 15 janvier).

- -

Pour célébrer 100 ans de fouille française à Dayr al-Madîna à Louqsor, le Musée égyptien du Caire organise, jusqu’au 5 février, au rez-de-chaussée dans la salle 44, une exposition consacrée aux objets trouvés sur ce site et conservés dans les entrepôts du musée. « Il s’agit de présenter aux chercheurs comme au grand public des pièces découvertes durant

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


les fouilles effectuées dans les tombes des artisans qui ont construit les sépultures thébaines des pharaons du Nouvel Empire », explique Khâlid al-‘Inânî, ministre des Antiquités, lors de la cérémonie d’ouverture.

Le sarcophage de l’artisan Sennedjem en bois stuqué,

vernis et peint en bon état de conservation.

L’Institut français d’archéologie orientale (Ifao) effectue des fouilles à Dayr al-Madîna depuis 1917. L’exposition rassemble 52 objets issus des fouilles, dont la plupart sont exposés pour la première fois. « Cette collection comprend 11 manuscrits appartenant à d’anciens chercheurs et égyptologues. Ils ont commencé à les écrire pendant ce siècle, mais sans pouvoir les terminer », explique Sabâh ‘Abd al-Râziq, directrice du musée. Et d’ajouter que d’autres documents provenant des archives de l’Ifao sont aussi exposés.

Outre les pièces exposées, deux films documentaires sont projetés dans la salle, le premier retrace les fouilles menées par Bernard BRUYÈRE et qui ont commencé en 1920 et ont duré 30 ans, alors que le second est un documentaire en 3D qui montre les trois tombes récemment ouvertes au public à Dayr al-Madîna, à savoir celles de Sénedjem (TT1), de Pached (TT3) et d’Inherkhâouy (TT359).

L’exposition comprend trois sections. La première aborde les aspects de la vie quotidienne des artisans. Cela inclut leurs loisirs, leurs pratiques littéraires et artisanales et leurs relations avec le pouvoir. « Le quotidien des artisans et de leurs familles nous est devenu familier grâce à la découverte de leur village, qui a été fouillé par l’archéologue français Bernard BRUYÈRE en 1920 », affirme l’organisatrice de l’exposition, Hanan Gaber,

qui est restée un an à préparer cet événement.

Parmi les objets exposés les plus importants figure une statue de l’artisan Sénedjem , des instruments musicaux, des rasoirs et des peignes, ainsi que des stèles et des ostraca en calcaire peint. « Pendant leur temps libre, les artisans tiraient librement sur les ostraca. Certains de ces dessins sont satiriques, c’est le cas de cet ostraca représentant un chat assumant le rôle surprenant d’un gardien d’oie, ou un autre montrant un singe imitant l’attitude d’un scribe », souligne Gaber. D’après elle, ces ostraca, retrouvés en quantité énorme sur le site, conservent de nombreuses traces d’enterrement.

La deuxième section de l’exposition porte sur les pratiques religieuses et funéraires des artisans. Celles-ci sont connues à travers les peintures et le riche mobilier funéraire découvert à l’intérieur des tombes des artisans Kha et Sénedjem , et dans certaines sépultures du cimetière oriental de Dayr al-Madîna. « BRUYÈRE a découvert plusieurs cercueils, dont le plus beau est celui d’une femme appelée Noub. Des objets tels la planche d’une momie, le cercueil de Sénedjem et les linteaux des pharaons Amenhotep Ier et IIe, ainsi que d’autres sarcophages bien décorés et coloriés », explique Ilhâm Salâh, chef du secteur des musées au ministère des Antiquités.

Pour sa part, Laurent BAVAY, directeur de l’Ifao, considère que le tronc d’arbre décoré avec une inscription de l’artisan Sénedjem , exposé pour la première fois, est une pièce unique. « Cette pièce que BRUYÈRE a découverte en 1920 et qui n’a jamais été montrée est vraiment exceptionnelle », assure-t-il.

Quant à la dernière section de l’exposition, elle illustre les travaux de fouille et de recherche sur le site montrant l’évolution des fouilles pendant 100 ans, le travail actuel de préservation et quelques exemples de travaux en cours. Selon BAVAY, cette exposition est une occasion pour montrer au public le village de Dayr al-Madîna qui a été entièrement

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


fouillé, et la communauté très particulière qui y vivait, puisqu’il s’agit des artisans, chargés de construire, de creuser et de décorer les tombes de la vallée des rois et des reines. « Ce sont des artistes très spécialisés qui avaient beaucoup d’importance, car ils accomplissaient une tâche très importante, à savoir la décoration des tombes des pharaons », conclut-il. (Nasma Réda, « Les trésors de Dayr al-Madîna exposés au Musée égyptien », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 17 janvier 2018).

- -


Statue of Ramses II uncovered in Memphis by Joseph HEKEKYAN,

1852-1854 photo : Jean Pascal Sebah

The relocation of the colossal statue of the ancient Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses II from Ramses Square in downtown Cairo to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) overlooking the Gîza Plateau received worldwide media coverage in 2006.

The red granite statue is to move again at the end of this month, when it starts its last journey to the permanent display area on the Grand Staircase at the entrance to the GEM. The move will be carried out by the Arab Contractors Company that was responsible for the previous move in 2006.

According to Târiq Tawfîq, supervisor-general of the GEM, over the past three weeks the statue has been intensively studied to assess its condition before transportation. Safeguarding procedures have been put in place, and the foam rubber covering the statue has been replaced with stronger material and weak points consolidated.

The road on which the statue will be transported has been paved with special material to bear the weight of the 13m colossus.

“The statue is to be transported in its cage, but it has also been hung on a steel bridge like a pendulum to allow it to move freely during the 400m journey,” Tawfîq told Al-Ahram Weekly.

He said the Arab Contractors would use the same iron cage and vehicle used in the statue’s 2006 transportation. This was specially created to support the weight of the 83-ton colossus. A trial to check the weight of the statue on the vehicle and the road has been implemented. The whole procedure has cost the GEM an amount of LE14 million while in 2006 it cost only LE6 million.

“After making its last journey, the statue of Ramses II will be the first major artefact to enter the permanent collection area of the GEM, the biggest museum in the world,” Tawfîq asserted.

This is also the fourth time this statue has been moved. The first was 3,000 years ago, shortly after it was carved in an Aswân quarry, when it was ferried down the Nile to Mît Rahîna 30km from the Gîza Plateau and installed at the Great Temple of Ptah.

In 1882, the statue was discovered broken into six pieces. Attempts to restore and re-erect it in situ failed, and it remained as it was found until former president Gamâl ‘Abd al-Nâsir decided to erect the statue in front of Cairo’s main railway station as a symbol of the country’s authentic roots.

In February 1954, minister of governmental affairs ‘Abd al-Latîf a-Bughdâdî undertook to move the statue to Bâb al-Hadîd (now Ramses Square) in Cairo, where the sculpture of “Egypt’s Renaissance” by artist Mahmûd Mukhtâr then stood.

The statue was transported to Bâb al-Hadîd Square on a tank by the military engineering department to celebrate the second anniversary of the 1952 Revolution and Mukhtâr’s masterpiece was re-erected in front of Cairo University.

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


The statue was restored and reassembled in the square, now renamed Ramses Square, by the insertion of iron bars inside the body. A fountain was built in front of it, and it soon became one of Cairo’s most famous landmarks, providing a backdrop for several famous film scenes and songs.

However, in subsequent years the square was redeveloped and the statue was largely hidden under a maze of cement structures and flyovers. Former culture minister Fârûq Husnî then suggested removing the statue from its location in Ramses Square to protect it from pollution. Several possible new locations were suggested.

It was thought the statue might be returned to its original home at Mît Rahîna, but the small local bridge could not have supported the weight of the statue. It was then suggested that it be placed in Gîza’s al-Rimâya Square, or at the entrance to the Cairo Opera House, but it was feared that in time these sites would also be affected by traffic fumes and congestion.

In 2002, the GEM was chosen as the permanent home of this magnificent colossus, and the statue made its third journey in 2006 from Ramses Square to the GEM grounds. Its fourth journey, when it will be installed in a place of honour inside the GEM, will take place at the end of this month. (Nevine El-Aref, “New move for Ramses”, Al-Ahram Weekly, January 18, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Ramsès II s’apprête à rejoindre l’atrium du GEM », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 6 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Transfert de Ramsès II vers le GEM, un lieu digne d’un roi », Sada al-Balad, 7 janvier ; “Ramses II statue to be transferred to Grand Egyptian Museum entrance”, Egypt Independent, January 18; Ayât Zinhum, « Zâhî Hawwâs : Le transfert du colosse de Ramsès II est l’événement culturel le plus important en 2018 », al-Wafd, 25 janvier).

- -

Une équipe de recherche internationale a réalisé une nouvelle découverte susceptible d’améliorer nos connaissances sur la maladie du cancer. En effet, une équipe de chercheurs,

parmi lesquels des anthropologues de l’Universidad de Granada, a détecté la présence du cancer du sein sur deux momies provenant d’une tombe pharaonique à Aswân. Ces deux femmes en sont mortes, il y a 2 000 ans. Selon un communiqué de l’Universidad de Granada, il s’agit du plus ancien cas connu jusqu’à présent. Cette découverte prouve l’existence de cette maladie à l’époque pharaonique, ainsi que les soins prodigués aux deux malades. (Basant Gamîl, « Une étude espagnole confirme la présence du cancer du sein dans l’Égypte ancienne », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 18 janvier 2018).

- -

An Egyptian archaeological mission led by renowned Egyptologist Zâhî Hawwâs began excavation work in the Valley of the Monkeys, a section of the Valley of the Kings on Luxor’s west bank, to search for an 18th Dynasty tomb “probably” of the wife of the boy king Tutankhamun, Ankhesenamun.

Mustafa Wazîrî, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities told Ahram Online that the team is working in the area near the tomb of king Ay, the successor of king Tutankhamun, in search of a yet unidentified 18th Dynasty tomb.

He pointed out that in 2010 the team uncovered in this area four foundation deposits, which suggest the existence of a tomb.

According to ancient Egyptian traditions, he asserted, such deposits have to be dug after the completion of any tomb but digging deposits before the construction of any temple.

Renowned Egyptologist Hawwâs told Ahram Online that in 2010 the team has unearthed inside these deposits a collection of knives and clay pots from the reign of king Amenhotep III, the father of the monotheistic king Akhenatun and the grandfather of the golden king Tutankhamun.

“This suggests that the tomb could belong to one of Tutankhamun’s family members, probably his wife Ankhesenamun,” Hawwâs told Ahram Online.

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


He added that radar survey carried out earlier has detected the existence of an anomaly five meters below the ground level. Some suggest that it could be the entrance of a tomb.

“Until excavations were conducted, archaeologists couldn’t be certain of the tomb’s existence. And if so we do not know for sure to whom it belongs,” Hawwâs said, adding “it could be anything, until we excavate.”

Ankhesenamun was the wife of Tutankhamun but married Ay not long after Tutankhamun’s death. Due to the location of the evidence, Hawwâs and his team think that any undiscovered tomb may belong to her.

The Valley of the Monkeys, also known as the Western Valley, earned its name from local inhabitants because of the walls paintings which king Ay’s tomb, which depicts 12 monkeys. (Nevine El-Aref, “Searching for the tomb of Tutankhamun’s wife Ankhesenamun”, Ahram Online, January 18, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Zâhî Hawwâs entame la recherche de la tombe des proches de Toutankhamon à la vallée des Singes à Louqsor », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 18 janvier ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Une mission égyptienne présidée par Hawwâs cherche la tombe des proches de Toutankhamon dans la vallée des Singes à Louqsor », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 18 janvier ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Lancement des fouilles dans la zone de la vallée des Singes sur la rive Ouest de Louqsor », Watanî, 18 janvier ; “Hawwâs mission kicks off to uncover Pharaonic tomb in Luxor”, Egypt Independent, January 20).

- -

Researchers from the University of Manchester found out that the two famous 4,000-year-old brothers Khanum-Nakht and Nekht-Ankh are from different paternal lines,

according to a recent DNA test conducted at the University of Manchester, The Telegraph reported.

During excavation work back in 1907, led by British archaeologist Flinders PETRIE, the bodies of the two brothers were discovered at Dayr Rifeh, 250 miles south of Cairo.

Sarcophagi inscriptions on their tomb revealed at the time that both men were the sons of a local governor, however, according to recent DNA tests conducted by the University of Manchester, results showed that they shared a mother, but not a father.

Back in 1908, archaeologist Margaret MURRAY discovered that the skeletal morphology of the bodies were not alike, indicating the absence of a family relationship. Rumours surfaced at the time that one of the brothers was adopted; yet, no scientific proof validated such claims.

Then in 2015, DNA was extracted from the teeth and results showed that both Nakht-Ankh and Khnum-Nakht belonged to mitochondrial haplotype M1a1, proving a maternal relationship.

According to The Telegraph, this year’s analysis is the first of its kind on mummies in the world “to use both mitochondrial DNA, which comes from the mother, and Y chromosome DNA which comes from the father.”

No further details were provided to explain the results.

“Scientists are unsure whether the finding suggests one of the brothers was adopted, or if their mother had an affair, and the true lineage of one of the boys was never publicly acknowledged,” The Telegraph said.

Konstantina DROSOU, of the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Manchester who conducted the DNA sequencing, said that even though the finding is small it still “adds a very important piece to the big history puzzle.”

“These moments are what make us believe in ancient DNA,” she added. (“DNA results prove famous mummy brothers from different

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


paternal lines”, Egypt Independent, January 18, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « L’ADN dévoile le lien de parenté entre deux momies », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 20 janvier).

- -

The Misr Company for Sound, Light and Cinema will begin releasing family tickets for Arabic-language shows until summer 2019, with rates coming at a discounted price, said the company’s chairman, Sâmih Sa‘d, on Wednesday.

The family tickets will sell for shows at five venues, the Pyramids of Gîza, Abû Simbil, Idfû, Philæ, and the Karnak Temple, and will seek to encourage Egyptian and Arab tourism.

A five-person (family) ticket will be sold at a new reduced price of LE 200, down from 250, while a four-person ticket will cost LE 180 instead of LE 200.

The company organized daily sound and light shows in Arabic at archaeological sites throughout the Christmas holidays.

The shows that are being operated by the Egyptian Company of Sound and Light tell the story of the history of the Pyramids while making use of light and sound effects.

The state-run Egyptian Company of Light and Sound (ECLS) and Emirati Prisme International signed an agreement stipulating that latter will develop the restaurants of the area as well as sound and light devices used to operate the night shows around the Sphinx. (“Arabic-language Sound and Light shows offer ticket discounts to encourage Arab tourism”, Egypt Independent, January 18, 2018).

- -


Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî embarked Tuesday a tour to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) to inspect the procedures being taken prior to the moving of the King Ramses II colossus to its permanent location on display at the museum’s grand staircase.

al-‘Inânî examined the colossus to assess its preservation condition as well as packing and safeguarding procedures. al-‘Inânî also inspected the vehicles that will be used for the relocation.

The minister examined a newly paved road with special load-bearing materials over which the 13-meter tall statue will be transported.

The statue is to be transported in a cage suspended like a pendulum, designed to allow it to move freely during the 400m journey.

The Arab Contractors Company will use the same iron cage and vehicle used in the statue’s 2006 transportation.

Both were specially created to support the weight of the 83-ton colossus.

“After making its last journey, the statue of Ramses II will be the first major artefact to enter the permanent collection area of the GEM, the biggest museum in the world,” al-‘Inânî told Ahram Online, adding that this is also the fourth time this statue has been moved. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egypt’s antiquities minister conducts inspection tour before Ramses II colossus moved to GEM display”, Ahram Online, January 23, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie révèle le coût du transfert du colosse de Ramsès II », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 25 janvier ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie : le transfert du colosse de Ramsès II a coûté 13,6 millions L.E. », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 25 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie : Achèvement de 76 % des travaux du GEM », Sada al-Balad, 25 janvier).

- -

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8



The Ministry of Antiquities stated on Tuesday that an archaeological expedition has discovered prehistoric monuments Gabal ‘Alî area in the Halâyyib region of the south Red Sea governorate.

The expedition was headed by Director General of Public Administration of Prehistoric Antiquities, Khâlid Sa‘d Mustafa in South Sinai, Mustafa Rizq, accompanied by the environmental researcher, ‘Alî Dura, in South Sinai.

The expedition observed areas of pre-historic graves, Romanic walls and Pharaonic golden mines, the Ministry of Antiquities added.

Romanic graves have narrow entrances for one person, its height being only 50 cm, topped by thresholds, indicating that individuals were crawling when they entered them.

The walls are curved inside them and roofed with a shallow dome.

Six bee-like graves were discovered in 1926, near the Halâyyib village on the coast of the Red Sea.

Bashariyah tribes in Sudan named them Arcetel, and there are other examples of similar buildings in the Valley of Rihâb. (“Pre-historian monuments discovered in Gabal ‘Alî, Halâyyib: Antiquities Ministry”, Egypt Independent, January 24, 2018).

- -

Sâmih Sa‘d, nouveau PDG de la Compagnie égyptienne de son et lumière, fait le point sur ce spectacle donné en 12 langues différentes.

Al-Ahram hebdo : Quel est votre plan pour développer les spectacles son et lumière, surtout qu’il n’ont pas changé depuis leur création ?

Sâmih Sa‘d : La Compagnie de son et lumière a été fondée en 1962 et dépend du secteur des affaires publiques. Sa mission est de présenter des spectacles dans différents sites archéologiques en Égypte et retracer leur historique, et ce, en 12 langues différentes, avec des effets de lumière. Nous présentons actuellement nos spectacles dans 5 sites : le plateau des pyramides, les temples de Karnak, de Philae, d’Abou-Simbel et celui d’Edfou. Il est vrai que ces spectacles n’ont pas changé depuis leur création, malgré les évolutions technologiques en matière de son et lumière et des spectacles multimédias. Il y avait un plan pour développer ces spectacles en 2009, mais à cause des perturbations qui ont eu lieu en Égypte à partir de 2011, ce plan a été interrompu faute de financement.

En fait, ce genre de spectacle est très coûteux, à cause des équipements, des logistiques utilisées, du scénario, de l’enregistrement du son par des acteurs de renom, etc. Il aurait été vraiment compliqué de développer ces spectacles, surtout avec la chute du tourisme. Mais voilà, on commence par un projet pilote pour développer le spectacle du plateau des pyramides. En fait, c’est le site archéologique le plus important et le plus emblématique de la civilisation égyptienne. Le projet consiste à produire un spectacle plus éblouissant en utilisant les technologies les plus sophistiquées, tels le laser et la 4D, en plus de l’aménagement de la

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


région toute entière du point de vue services, comme les restaurants, les cafés, les bazars, etc.

— Mais comment avez-vous surmonté le problème du financement ?

— Pour réaliser ce grand projet dont le budget est d’environ 50 millions de dollars, on a eu recours à un partenariat avec le ministère des Antiquités ainsi qu’avec une société égyptienne spécialisée dans ce domaine, qui est Orascom Prisme Pyramids. D’ici au mois de mai prochain, les travaux seront entamés sur le terrain.

— Qu’en est-il des autres sites archéologiques ?

— Nous travaillons étape par étape, surtout avec le manque de financement à cause des pertes réalisées depuis 2011, et qui ont atteint 52 millions de L.E. Ainsi, on essaye de penser différemment et de trouver des partenaires pour le financement. Le son et lumière est un projet avant tout à but culturel. Nous cherchons une coopération avec la France, connue pour son égyptomanie, pour développer le son et lumière du temple d’Abû Simbil. Ils vont donc sauver ce temple pharaonique pour la seconde fois, comme l’ont fait leurs prédécesseurs lorsqu’ils ont lancé une campagne de sauvetage de ce site après la construction du Haut Barrage. À noter que la ville de Lyon est très connue pour les technologies des lumières et des designs des spectacles multimédias.

— Comment commercialisez-vous les spectacles son et lumière ?

— On fait le marketing des spectacles à travers des agences de voyage. Mais lorsque j’ai pris la responsabilité de la société, j’ai fait un questionnaire qui sera distribué aux agences de voyage, afin de connaître leur avis vis-à-vis des horaires et des langues dans lesquelles les spectacles sont donnés. On pourrait donc modifier les jours et les langues selon la clientèle. Sans oublier qu’on accorde des réductions aux grands groupes. En outre, à partir du mois de février, nous mettrons en service une navette qui fait le tour des hôtels,

surtout à Aswân, pour emmener les touristes qui désirent assister à nos spectacles.

Dans le même contexte, nous révisons actuellement la liste des prix des différents spectacles, surtout pour les cérémonies privées. En fait, ces cérémonies sont lucratives et considérées comme une publicité gratuite pour les antiquités, voire pour le tourisme égyptien, comme le dernier concert qui s’est tenu le jour de l’An au pied des pyramides et qui était animé par le DJ international David VANDETTA. On a encore beaucoup de réservations pour de tels spectacles, comme la cérémonie de Valentin. La tenue de l’opéra Aïda de VERDI au début du mois de mars prochain sera aussi l’une des plus grandes cérémonies cette année.

— Est-ce que les spectacles son et lumière contribuent à la promotion du tourisme en Égypte ?

— Certainement, surtout lorsqu’on organise des cérémonies qui sont diffusées à travers les médias internationaux. C’est la meilleure publicité gratuite pour le tourisme égyptien. Ainsi, on va mettre des webcams, afin de diffuser en direct des spectacles son et lumière sur notre page Internet, de même que sur le site Web de l’Organisation de la promotion touristique et sur l’application « Son et lumière » qui sera en service dans quelques semaines. On commencera par le plateau des pyramides. En plus, on va munir nos sites d’un service Internet Wi-Fi, afin que les touristes puissent diffuser le spectacle en direct pour le mettre au fur et à mesure sur leur page Facebook.

— Pourquoi n’existe-t-il pas de spectacles son et lumière dans un monument islamique, comme la citadelle de Saladin ou la rue al-Mu‘izz ?

— À cause du coût élevé de la création d’un spectacle. Celui-ci varie entre 5 et 6 millions d’euros. En plus, c’est un projet à but culturel et non lucratif. C’est l’État qui doit financer un tel projet, mais il ne possède pas les fonds à l’heure actuelle. Nous avons quand même éclairé des parties de la citadelle en coopération avec le ministère des Antiquités.

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


— Quel est votre plus grand défi à l’heure actuelle ?

— Notre plus grand défi est celui de la chute du nombre de touristes, surtout ceux qui sont intéressés par le tourisme culturel. Le problème aussi est que cette année, nous avons un grand projet à réaliser et qui constitue une révolution dans la conception du son et lumière en Égypte, puisqu’il se tiendra à Hurghada, loin des sites historiques. En fait, c’est une idée qui remonte à plus de dix ans et qu’on a arrêtée pour plusieurs raisons. Mais cette fois, nous sommes déterminés à la réaliser.

Ce projet consiste à créer toute une cité de divertissement, où sera présenté un spectacle son et lumière qui relate l’histoire de l’Égypte depuis les époques anciennes jusqu’à l’ère contemporaine. Dans cette cité qui sera conçue sur le modèle de Disneyland, il y aura tous les services et les moyens d’attraction et de divertissement, surtout ceux électroniques, virtuels et interactifs. Cette cité de 42 000 m2 fera de la ville d’Hurghada un centre d’attraction mondial. On négocie avec plusieurs investisseurs pour mettre en place un partenariat dans ce projet, dont on espère mettre la première pierre avant la fin de cette année. (Dalia Farouq, « Sâmih Sa‘d : Nous voulons un spectacle plus éblouissant », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 24 janvier 2018).

- -


The newly discovered stelae

Sân al-Hagar, or the Tanis archaeological site, is located in Egypt’s northern Delta and was once the capital of the ancient 22nd and 23rd dynasties. The site still boasts many monumental relics and is one of the country’s

largest and most impressive sites, causing Egyptologists to dub it the “Luxor of the North”.

The site is characterised by reused materials from neighbouring sites from earlier periods such as Qantîr or Pi-Ramses, Egypt’s capital during the reign of the Pharaoh Ramses II, and the Hyksos capital of Avaris.

“Tanis is the richest archaeological site in the Delta because it gathers monuments from the Old Kingdom right through the Intermediate Period,” Muhammad ‘Abd al-Maqsûd, former secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities who has worked extensively at Tanis, told Al-Ahram Weekly.

Wazîrî examining the stelae

He said that Tanis was actually the Greek name of the site, called Djanet by the ancient Egyptians. After the Arab conquest in the seventh century CE it was named Sân al-Hagar because of the large number of rocks at the site. Its location on Lake Manzala made it an important destination until the construction of Alexandria in the Ptolemaic period.

According to ‘Abd al-Maqsûd, the city can be dated to the Old Kingdom owing to the presence of stone reliefs and blocks from the reign of the Fourth-Dynasty Pharaoh Khufu and the Fifth-Dynasty Pharaoh Pepi I at the site.

Other monuments from the Middle Kingdom can also be found, such as the arch-atrium and lintel of Senousert I and the pillar of Amenemhat I.

The city flourished during the reign of the 19th-Dynasty Pharaoh Ramses II, who constructed three temples there in order to

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


immortalise the visits of his father and grandfather to the city. However, he built his own capital in nearby Qantîr, calling it Pi-Ramses.

During the 21st and 22nd dynasties, Tanis was a royal necropolis housing the tombs of the Pharaohs as well as nobles and military leaders. ‘Abd al-Maqsûd said that Tanis was also the original site of several obelisks, one of them now on show in the al-Andalus Gardens in Cairo and the second at the Cairo International Airport.

The Tanis obelisks deteriorated due to earthquakes in antiquity and other factors. “Some were exported outside Egypt to cities like Rome and Istanbul,” ‘Abd al-Maqsûd added.

During Napoleon BONAPARTE’s expedition to Egypt at the end of the 18th century, many objects were taken from Tanis, eventually ending up in museums in Paris, Berlin and St Petersburg. Two large red granite sphinxes and several statues were transported to the Louvre Museum in Paris.

French archaeologist Auguste MARIETTE was the first to excavate at the site, where he unearthed a collection of Middle Kingdom royal statues. However, he mistakenly identified the site as Pi-Ramses. It was left to the British archaeologist Flinders PETRIE to draw up a detailed plan of the city with its temples and other structures. PETRIE also discovered a Roman papyrus, which is now on display at the British Museum in London.

Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, told the Weekly that the Frenchman Pierre MONTET’s excavations between the 1920s and 1950s were the most important carried out at Tanis.

MONTET put an end to the enigma of the identification of the site, as some Egyptologists saw Tanis as Pi-Ramses, while others suggested that it was the ancient Avaris.

MONTET showed that Tanis was neither Pi-Ramses nor Avaris, but was a third capital in the Delta of the 21st Dynasty. He also unearthed the royal necropolis of the 21st and

22nd dynasties in 1939, with their unique treasures now on display in the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr Square.

“This discovery was not recognised in the way that the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922 was recognised because of the outbreak of World War II,” Wazîrî said. Among the tombs that were uncovered were those of the Pharaohs Psusennes I, Amenemope, Osorkon II and Sheshonq III.

The remarkable sarcophagi of Sheshonq III and Taklot II were found, along with other artefacts that explain the royal funerary rituals and goods of the Third Intermediate Period.

“Although archaeological missions have worked on the site for almost 100 years, it has never been completely excavated,” Wazîrî said, adding that time has taken its toll on the monuments and the whole area has been subjected to deterioration due to the high levels of subterranean water and environmental erosion.

These factors have affected the monuments, some of them still largely unexcavated in the ground. The building of a fish farm neighbouring the site has had negative impacts leading to an increase in the level of subterranean water.

Part of the development work

During the early 2000s, a project was carried out to decrease the water level and a wall constructed to protect the area. But the area was still neglected until last year, when the ministry of Antiquities launched a comprehensive rescue project to restore the monuments and develop the site into an open-air museum of ancient Egyptian art.

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


Wazîrî said that the project aims to lift the monumental blocks, reliefs, columns, statues and stelae lying on the sand and restore and re-erect them on concrete slabs in order to protect and prevent their further deterioration.

A documentation project to record the Tanis site and monuments is also underway.

During the work that has been carried out, archaeologists have stumbled on a stelae of the 19th-Dynasty Pharaoh Ramses II carved in red granite and depicting him presenting offerings to a yet-unidentified ancient Egyptian deity.

Another three stelae of Senusert III, Pepi I and Khufu were also found one metre below the ground. They were found in pieces and will now be restored.

“Work is continuing night and day to open the site very soon,” Wazîrî told the Weekly, adding that a team of workers from Luxor had been specially summoned to the site to finish the work in a shorter time. (Nevine El-Aref, “Developing the ‘Luxor of the North’”, Al-Ahram Weekly, January 25, 2018. Voir également « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte d’une stèle antique à Sân al-Hagar », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 12 janvier ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte d’une stèle antique à Sân al-Hagar », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 12 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Mise au jour d’une stèle de Ramsès II à Sân al-Hagar », Sada al-Balad, 12 janvier ; “Ramses II stelae found at Sân al-Hagar archaeological site in al-Sharqiyya”, Egypt Independent, January 13; Nevine El-Aref, “Ramses II stelae uncovered at Sân al-Hagar site”, Ahram Online, January 13; Nasma Réda, « Un début d'année riche en découvertes », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 24 janvier).

- -

The colossus of Ramses II arrived safely at its new display area in the atrium of the Grand Egyptian Museum on Thursday, in preparation for the museum’s soft opening later this year.

The statue had been being stored in another part of the GEM, and the 400-metre journey to its permanent resting place was

marked with ceremony. Senior officials were in attendance, and the statue was preceded on its journey by 11 Egyptian horsemen in ceremonial military dress. As it reached its final location, the national anthem was played.

The 3,200-year-old colossal statue of King Ramses II is seen during

its transfer to the main entrance of the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo’s twin city Gîza on January 25, 2018. (Photo: AFP)

Thursday’s trip was the fourth time that the colossus of the great king, who ruled from 1279–1213 BC, has been moved.

(…) Antiquities Minister Khâlid al-‘Inânî said that over the past three months the statue has been intensively studied to assess its condition before transportation. Safeguarding procedures have been put in place, and the foam rubber covering the statue has been replaced with stronger material and weak points consolidated.

al-‘Inânî added that the whole process has cost about EGP 13.6 million, including packing and unpacking the statue and preparing the road.

Muhsin Salâh, chairman of the Arab Contractors Company, told Ahram Online before the move that the statue would be transported in at iron cage, wherein it would be hung like a pendulum to allow it to move freely during the 400-metre journey.

Târiq Tawfîq, supervisor general of the Grand Egyptian Museum, said that the museum is expected to be fully open totally in 2022, but its soft opening will be at the end of this year.

The museum, located on the Gîza Plateau, will feature an atrium, a grand staircase, and the Tutankhamun hall. The golden king’s whole collection will by put on show for the first time; it includes 5,200 artifacts.

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


The partially broken colossus of Ramses II was discovered at Mît Rahîna archaeological site in 1820 by the Italian adventurer Giovanni CAVIGLIA, along with another similar one that remains on site. CAVIGLIA tried to move it to Italy but he was unable to because of its 83-tonne weight.

Muhammad ‘Alî decided to offer the statue to the British Museum in London but the offer failed for the same reason. The statue stood in its place at Mît Rahîna until it was eventually transferred to Ramses Square. (Nevine El-Aref, “Colossal Ramses II statue arrives at new display at the Grand Egyptian Museum”, Ahram Online, January 25, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le colosse de Ramsès II atteint sa destination finale au GEM », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 25 janvier ; Amânî Subhî, « Târiq Tawfîq : Le transfert du colosse de Ramsès II a été effectué par une compagnie et une expertise égyptiennes », al-Wafd, 25 janvier ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Le colosse de Ramsès II arrive à sa destination finale au GEM », Watanî, 25 janvier ; Nasma Réda, « Ramsès II s’installe à sa nouvelle résidence », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 31 janvier).

- -

Dimanche 28 janvier 2018

JICA’s Miyahara CHIE observes restoration work conducted on

King Khufu’s second solar boat

A senior official from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) took a tour of conservation facilities at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) on Sunday afternoon, observing restoration work being conducted on King Khufu’s second solar boat.

Miyahara CHIE, the deputy director-general of JICA’s Middle East and Europe Department, visited the GEM’s conservation laboratories and was updated on work to restore the ancient wooden boat, a project that is partly funded by the Japanese government.

Îsa Zaydân, supervisor-general of boat restoration work, told Ahram Online that CHIE was very enthusiastic about the restoration project and hopes to see the craft reassembled and put on display at the GEM soon.

Two boats belonging to Pharaoh Khufu were discovered inside two pits in 1954 as Egyptian archaeologists Kamâl al-Mallâkh and

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


Zakî Nûr were carrying out routine cleaning on the southern side of the Great Pyramid of Gîza.

After its initial discovery, the first boat was removed piece by piece under the supervision of restoration expert Ahmad Yûsuf, who spent more than 20 years restoring and reassembling it. The boat is now on display at Khufu’s Solar Boat Museum on the Gîza Plateau.

The second boat remained sealed in the neighbouring pit until 1987 when it was examined by the American National Geographic Society in association with the Egyptian Office for Historical Monuments.

In 2009, a Japanese scientific and archaeological team from Waseda University headed by Sakuji YOSHIMURA offered to remove the boat from the pit, restore and reassemble it, and put it on show to the public. The launch of the project involved a $10 million grant from the Japanese government. (Nevine El-Aref, “Japanese development agency official inspects restoration work on Khufu’s second solar boat”, Ahram Online, January 28, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « La directrice de la JICA à la tête d’une délégation visite le projet de restauration de la deuxième barque de Chéops », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 28 janvier ; Ahmad Mansûr, « La directrice de la JICA inspecte les travaux de restauration de la deuxième barque de Chéops », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 28 janvier ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « La directrice de la JICA visite le projet de restauration de la deuxième barque de Chéops », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 28 janvier ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « La directrice de la JICA visite le projet de restauration de la deuxième barque de Chéops », Watanî, 28 janvier).

- -

Le directeur de l’Administration générale des antiquités restituées, Sha‘bân ‘Abd al-Gawwâd, a annoncé que l’Égypte a récupéré au cours des deux dernières années plus de 1 000 pièces archéologiques volées à l’étranger. En effet, la Suisse a restitué 100 pièces antiques, les Émirats arabes unis 440 pièces, la Jordanie 350 pièces. Idem pour la

Belgique, le Mexique et l’Italie. (Bassâm Ramadân, « L’Égypte a récupéré au cours des deux dernières années plus de 1 000 pièces archéologiques volées », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 28 janvier 2018. Voir également Ayât Zinhum, « al-‘Inânî : Récupération de 1 000 pièces archéologiques volées », al-Wafd, 29 janvier).

- -

The Ministry of Antiquities resumed preliminary renovation work of the Graeco-Roman Museum in Alexandria on Saturday with an initial cost totalled at LE120 million after the ministry suspended the museum’s renovation following the outbreak of January 25 revolution in 2011.

The museum is the largest one specializing in the Graeco-Roman civilization in the Mediterranean region, the ministry noted.

Assistant Minister of Antiquities for Engineering Affairs, Hishâm Samîr Ibrâhîm, told al-Masrî al-Yawm that the actual renovation will commence after raw materials are transported to the location of the museum under the supervision of the Engineering Authority of the Armed Forces as well as sub-contractors.

Ibrâhîm added that the ministry allocated LE1,25 billion to fund 8 national archaeological projects nationwide including renovation works of the Graeco-Roman Museum, which started in 2009.

A source in the Museum sector in Alexandria and West Delta said that the museum contained 90 thousand artifacts before they were transferred to the ministry’s storage facility in West Alexandria. (“Graeco-Roman Museum resumes renovation after 7-

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


year suspension”, Egypt Independent, January 28, 2018).

- -


Egypt’s antiquities ministry has launched a project to make archaeological sites and museums more accessible to people with disabilities, starting with improvements to Luxor Museum and the temples of Karnak and Luxor.

Shirîf ‘Abd al-Mun‘im, supervisor of the ministry’s Development of Archaeological Sites department, told Ahram Online that the project will bring improved mobility for those in wheelchairs, as well as making information more accessible to those with impaired sight and hearing.

Special paths will be constructed at Karnak and Luxor to facilitate the movement of wheelchairs, while information boards will be put up that are accessible to those with disabilities. A documentary film on display at the visitor center will have sign-language incorporated.

The toilets, meanwhile, will be renovated and equipped to suit special-needs visitors, according to international standards.

Mustafa al-Saghîr, director-general of Karnak Antiquities, explained a few of the improvements planned for the Karnak Temple site. The podium area and the area between the Taharaka column and the open-air museum will feature ramps measuring 1.5 metres in width, he explained, while a wooden slope will be installed from the start of the Avenue of Sphinxes.

The ministry is conducting the project in partnership with an Egyptian NGO called Hilm (which translates into English as "Dream") that specialises in promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of life, including access to public premises.

Imân Zaydân, supervisor of the ministry’s Financial Resources Development Department, said that the project to improve accessibility at archaeological sites highlights

the role of NGOs in serving the community. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egypt’s archaeological sites to be made more accessible to people with disabilities”, Ahram Online, January 29, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Les temples de Louqsor et de Karnak accessibles aux handicapés », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 29 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Les sites archéologiques de plus en plus accessibles aux handicapés », Sada al-Balad, 29 janvier).

- -


Ahmad Qattân and Zâhî Hawwâs

During a reception held at the Saudi Arabian embassy in Cairo, Saudi Ambassador Ahmad Qattân bestowed upon Egyptian Egyptologist Zâhî Hawwâs the Riyadh Nile award for his devotion and passion for archaeology and excavation.

Hawwâs recently delivered a lecture in Saudi Arabia on archaeology and recent discoveries in several parts of the kingdom.

Hawwâs also spoke about ancient Egyptian amulets found in al-Faw city near Riyadh and a cartouche of King Ramses III, who was the first Egyptian king to send trade missions to what is now Saudi Arabia.

The ceremony was attended by Egyptian Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî as well as a number of foreign ambassadors to Egypt. (Nevine El-Aref, “Saudi Arabia honours Egyptian Egyptologist Zâhî Hawwâs for his devotion to archaeology”, Ahram Online, January 30, 2018).

- -

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


One of the painted reliefs

Five painted reliefs from the Old Kingdom Ani-Sneferu Ashnef tomb have been transported from the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Gîza in preparation for the soft opening of the GEM later this year.

Usâma Abû al-Khayr, director-general of restoration at the GEM, told Ahram Online that three other reliefs from the tomb have already been transported to the museum.

Îsa Zaydân, director-general of first aid restoration at the GEM, said that all safety measures were taken during the transportation of the reliefs, which are carved in mud-bricks and covered with plaster.

The reliefs, which are adorned with coloured paintings, are set to undergo restoration at the GEM’s laboratory.

The Ani-Sneferu Ashnef tomb, which dates back to the Old Kingdom’s sixth Dynasty, was uncovered in 1854 by British explorer Augustus DE MORGAN in Dahshûr. The tomb consists of 18 reliefs of different sizes and shapes. (Nevine El-Aref, “Sixth Dynasty painted reliefs transported to Grand Egyptian Museum in Gîza”, Ahram Online, January 30, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le GEM réceptionne 5 stèles de la tombe de Ani-Sneferu Ashnef », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 30 janvier ; Ahmad Mansûr, « 5 stèles de la tombe de Ani-Sneferu Ashnef arrivent au GEM », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 30 janvier ; Islâm ‘Abd al-Ma‘bûd, « Le GEM réceptionne 5 stèles de la tombe de Ani-Sneferu Ashnef », al-Shurûq, 30 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « 5 stèles de la tombe de Ani-Sneferu Ashnef transférées au GEM », Sada al-Balad, 30 janvier).

- -

The American University in Cairo’s (AUC) Rare Books and Special Collections Library has been assisting with a project to restore New al-Qurna village in Luxor, providing original drawings, documents and images from the AUC’s Hasan Fathî Collection.

Built between 1946 and 1949, New al-Qurna village has experienced significant deterioration in recent decades, inspiring several plans for its restoration that have not come to fruition until now.

A UNESCO-sponsored project, however, is set to succeed in preserving pioneering architect Hasan Fathî’s well-known experiment at constructing an ideal village, a plan that perfectly embodies the innovative architect’s mission and values.

With the help of the special collections library and the backing of UNESCO, the National Organization for Urban Harmony (NOUH) was able to concretize plans for revival of the site and restoration of its buildings, guided by the original materials from the Hasan Fathî Collection.

“We’re happy to see the Hasan Fathî Collection used for restoration purposes,” said ‘Ulâ Sayf, assistant director and curator for photography at the Rare Books and Special Collections Library.

“For the past 10 years, it has been a wonderful source for many researchers worldwide, and soon, AUC Press will publish a thoroughly researched book titled Hasan Fathî in His Time. So the collection is really being explored as Hasan Fathî would have liked it to be, and to serve the purposes of his architectural ideology.”

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


Considered one of the first architects to make “appropriate technology” a principle of designing modern buildings, Fathî constructed the New al-Qurna village around the unique needs of its inhabitants.

In the process, he was able to assist in relocating an entire community that had previously been living near archaeological Pharaonic sites. To build a “better village,” Fathî used local materials and traditional mud bricks, thereby empowering those in need to build their own affordable housing and reflecting the community’s connection with its environment.

The library was also central in curating an exhibition for the project’s launch event that was recently held at the Cairo Citadel. Through photographic archives, the exhibition traced the original construction of the village and Fathî’s architectural style, paying homage to his vision for New al-Qurna.

Mosque

The final segment of the photographic gallery presented digital images that offered a peek into plans for reconstruction of some of the New al-Qurna buildings. Târiq Wâlî, CEO

of the Târiq Wâlî Center and consultant for the restoration project, also introduced the main strategies for restoration. Additionally, Ghaith FARIZ, director of UNESCO Regional Bureau for Sciences in the Arab States, spoke to the significance of Fathî’s architecture and ideology.

The first stage of the project will tackle the village khan and mosque. Later stages will move on to rehabilitating the theatre, marketplace, Fathî’s residence, the village hall and main square, with plans to also increase the efficiency of the roads approaching the site. The project involves plans to reuse the buildings according to the needs of the villagers, with the possibility of converting some areas into artist studios, a cultural centre, a centre for youth and, potentially, a training centre to continue communicating Fathî’s mission and methods. (Nevine El-Aref, “AUC shares Hasan Fathî archives to help restore New al-Qurna village”, Ahram Online, January 30, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « L’AUC contribue au projet de ressuscitation d’al-Qurna al-Gadîda », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 29 janvier).

- -

A reconstruction of the titanosaurian dinosaur Mansourasaurus

shahinae on a coastline in what is now the Western Desert of Egypt, approximately 80 million years ago. (Photo courtesy of Carnegie

Museum of Natural History)

Scientists have unearthed in a Sahara Desert oasis in Egypt fossils of a long-necked, four-legged, school bus-sized dinosaur that lived roughly 80 million years ago, a discovery that sheds light on a mysterious time period in the history of dinosaurs in Africa.

Researchers said on Monday the plant-eating Cretaceous Period dinosaur, named Mansourasaurus shahinae, was nearly 33 feet (10 metres) long and weighed 5.5 tons (5,000

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


kg) and was a member of a group called titanosaurs that included Earth’s largest-ever land animals.

Like many titanosaurs, Mansourasaurus boasted bony plates called osteoderms embedded in its skin.

Mansourasaurus, which lived near the shore of the ancient ocean that preceded the Mediterranean Sea, is one of the very few dinosaurs known from the last 15 million years of the Mesozoic Era, or age of dinosaurs, on mainland Africa. Madagascar had a separate geologic history.

Its remains, found at the Dâkhla Oasis in central Egypt, are the most complete of any mainland African land vertebrate during an even larger time span, the roughly 30 million years before the dinosaur mass extinction 66 million years ago, said palaeontologist Hishâm Sallâm of Egypt’s al-Mansûra University, who led the study published in the journal Nature Ecology and Evolution.

The scientists recovered parts of its skull, lower jaw, neck and back vertebrae, ribs, shoulder and forelimb, back foot and osteoderms.

A lot of Africa is covered in grasslands, savannahs and rain forests that obscure underlying rock where fossils may be found, said postdoctoral researcher Eric GORSCAK of the Field Museum in Chicago, who was formerly at Ohio University.

While as massive as a bull African elephant, Mansourasaurus was modestly sized next to titanosaur cousins such as South America’s Argentinosaurus, Dreadnoughtus and Patagotitan and Africa’s Paralititan, some exceeding 100 feet (30 metres) long.

“Mansourasaurus, though a big animal by today’s standards, was a pipsqueak compared to some other titanosaurs,” said palaeontologist Matt LAMANNA of the Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh.

The researchers determined Mansourasaurus was more closely related to European and Asian titanosaurs than to those from elsewhere in Africa and other Southern Hemisphere land masses including South America formerly joined in a super-continent called Gondwana.

“This, in turn, demonstrates for the first time that at least some dinosaurs could move between North Africa and southern Europe at the end of the Mesozoic, and runs counter to long-standing hypotheses that have argued that Africa’s dinosaur faunas were isolated from others during this time,” LAMANNA said. (Reuters, “Fossil of school bus-sized dinosaur dug up in Egyptian desert”, Ahram Online, January 30, 2018. Voir également Sâlih

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


Ramadân, « Les exploratrices racontent leur quête du Mansourasaurus », al-Watan, 30 janvier ; Amânî Subhî, « Circonstances de la découverte du dinosaure des oasis », al-Wafd, 30 janvier ; Ahmad al-‘Isâwî, « Le découvreur de Mansourasaurus relate les coulisses de sa découverte », al-Shurûq, 31 janvier ; Ibrâhîm al-‘Ashmâwî, « 21 jours de travail pour une équipe scientifique dans le désert », al-Ahrâm, 31 janvier).

- -

Cairo Airport customs authorities seized rare geological rocks of scientific and historical value before they were smuggled to the Netherlands on Tuesday.

The rocks were placed in a package of handmade items weighing 15 tons. The rocks, of different weights and sizes, weighted in total 88kg, according to the customs officials.

Cairo Airport Customs Department director Ishâq Gindî Kâmil ordered that the rocks be dispatched to a specialized committee at the Egyptian Geological Museum for further examination.

The committee confirmed the historical and scientific value of the rocks, stating that it should not be exported in accordance to the Mineral Wealth Law No. 198 of 2014.

Legal procedures were taken regarding the incident and the rocks were kept at the Egyptian Geological Museum. (“Archaeological rocks seized by Cairo Airport customs authorities”, Egypt Independent, January 30, 2018. Voir également Muhsin ‘Abd al-Râziq, « Saisie d’une collection de roches géologiques exceptionnelles », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 29 janvier ; Hishâm ‘Abd al-‘Azîz, « Tentative déjouée d’exportation illicite vers le Pays-Bas de roches géologiques exceptionnelles », al-Ahrâm, 31 janvier).

- -


Situé à environ 2 km du plateau des pyramides, sur la route Le Caire-Fayyûm, le nouveau Grand Musée égyptien (GEM) sera inauguré partiellement d’ici à la fin 2018. L’inauguration comprendra l’atrium, la grande salle principale renfermant des statues colossales, ainsi que le pavillon du jeune Toutankhamon.

Sur une superficie de plus de 490 000 m2, les travaux de construction sont quasi terminés. Ils s’effectuent en parallèle à la restauration de nombreuses pièces antiques qui seront exposées. « Le musée a reçu, jusqu’à décembre 2017, 42 755 pièces de différentes époques et dimensions », dit Târiq Tawfîq, directeur du musée. Il précise que le musée renfermera 100 000 pièces, dont la moitié sera exposée de façon permanente, tandis que les autres seront mises dans des entrepôts et seront accessibles aux étudiants et aux experts ou pour organiser des expositions temporaires.

« Ce sera l’un des plus grands et plus importants musées au monde, puisqu’il abritera toute la collection du jeune pharaon Toutankhamon, découverte en 1922 », explique le ministre des Antiquités, Khâlid al-‘Inânî. Tawfîq ajoute : « C’est la première fois que le visiteur pourra voir toute la collection du jeune roi, qui compte 5 200 pièces, dans une salle ». Le célèbre masque funéraire du jeune roi sera transféré à la dernière minute, quelques jours avant l’inauguration.

Le musée comptera en outre 87 pièces colossales, dont 43 orneront la grande salle de l’entrée principale. « Le musée a déjà reçu et restauré une vingtaine de ces pièces et dans quelques semaines, la compagnie The Arab Contractors transférera d’autres colosses et grandes pièces du Musée égyptien du Caire », souligne al-‘Inânî.

L’idée de la création du GEM est née au début du XXIe siècle. En février 2002, l’ancien président Mubârak a posé la première pierre. « Les travaux sérieux ont commencé en 2010.

J a n v i e r 2 0 1 8


Ils ont été ralentis par le manque de moyens financiers, mais au cours de cette année, nous avons accéléré le rythme », déclare al-‘Inânî.

« En fait, ce musée n’est pas seulement un grand centre d’exposition, mais aussi un complexe de civilisation, de culture et d’art », indique Tawfîq. Ainsi, il ne comprendra pas seulement des espaces d’exposition et des centres de conservation et de restauration, mais aussi un centre commercial, des restaurants et un cinéma. (« Le Grand Musée égyptien, une vision qui devient réalité », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 31 janvier 2018. Voir également Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inspecte les travaux en cours au GEM », Watanî, 23 janvier ; Na‘îm Yûsuf, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie : Le montant de la création du GEM s’élève à 1 milliard de dollars », al-Fagr, 28 janvier).

- -

Des sources informées ont révélé que le différend qui divise le Comité permanent des antiquités égyptiennes à propos du site de Mârînâ al-‘Alamayn s’est soldé par la mise à

l’écart de l’ancien secrétaire général du CSA, Dr Muhammad ‘Abd al-Maqsûd, et de l’ancien chef des services de la sécurité, Major ‘Abd al-Hâfiz ‘Abd al-Karîm. En effet, ces deux personnes sont strictement opposées au déclassement de ce terrain riche en antiquités, contrairement à l’avis général du Comité permanent, qui regroupe près de 15 membres. Le site de Mârînâ, qui abrite une cité romaine, aiguise l’appétit des promoteurs immobiliers qui souhaitent y aménager des chalets et des lacs artificiels. (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Différend au sein du Comité permanent des antiquités égyptiennes à propos du site de Mârînâ », Sada al-Balad, 31 janvier 2018. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Accusations d’empiètement sur le site archéologique de Mârînâ », Sada al-Balad, 27 février).

-

- -

-


II – FÉVRIER 2018

Jeudi 1er février 2018

Although an official holiday in Egypt to commemorate the 25 January Revolution in 2011, Cairenes woke up early last Thursday to witness the colossal statue of the Pharaoh Ramses II’s last journey to its permanent display area in the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) overlooking the Gîza Plateau in preparation for the museum’s soft opening in 12 months’ time, who joined the Pharaoh Ramses II’s royal cavalcade.

The scene at the GEM was something like a huge carnival, as thousands of people, including hundreds of officials and media professionals, flocked to the museum to witness the last journey of the Ramses II colossus.

As the royal cavalcade rolled along the 400-metre road to the GEM, the attendees stood up in their seats clapping to greet the Pharaoh as photographers climbed the walls of the GEM trying to catch a photograph of the royal convoy.

The Pharaoh’s statue was preceded on its journey by 11 horsemen in ceremonial dress. As the colossus reached its final location, the national anthem was played.

“Looking at the face of Ramses II, you can see his beautiful smile. I think the king is very happy today,” Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî told Al-Ahram Weekly.

He said that Ramses II was there to greet the GEM’s visitors on its opening as well as guard the great cultural institution much as he did 3,000 years ago when the ancient Egyptians carved his statue to protect the temple of the god Ptah in Memphis.

The GEM is expected to be fully open by 2022, but its soft opening will be at the end of this year. “The soft opening is not a minor opening as has been claimed,” al-‘Inânî told the attendees. “It includes the atrium, the grand staircase, and the two galleries of the golden king Tutankhamun in an area of over 23,000 metres.”

This is more than double the size of the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr Square. “The boy king galleries will put on show the whole collection of the king for the first time since its discovery in 1922, including 5,200 artefacts,” al-‘Inânî said.

“Over the past three months the statue of Ramses II has been intensively studied to assess its condition before transportation. Safeguarding procedures have been put in place, and the foam rubber covering the statue has been replaced with stronger material and weak points consolidated,” said GEM Director-General Târiq Tawfîq.

He added that the process had cost about LE13.6 million, including packing and unpacking the statue and preparing the road. Before the move, he went on, the statue had been transported in an iron cage and hung like a pendulum to allow it to move freely during the 400-metre journey.

Thursday’s trip was the fourth relocation of the colossus of the great king who ruled from 1279-1213 BCE, and it was carried out in collaboration with the Engineering Authority of the Armed Forces and the Arab Contractors Company, which was responsible for the previous move in 2006.

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


The first trip took place 3,000 years ago when the statue was carved in Aswân quarry and then taken to the Mît Rahîna archaeological site in Memphis to be displayed as part of the Ptah Temple. The second one was in 1955, when former president Gamâl ‘Abd al-Nâsir decided to move the statue to Bâb al-Hadîd (now Ramses Square) in Cairo as part of an initiative launched by minister of governmental affairs ‘Abd al-Latîf al-Baghdâdî to beautify the streets and squares of Cairo.

The third relocation was in 2006 when former minister of culture Fârûq Husnî decided to move the statue from Ramses Square to the headquarters of the GEM to protect it from pollution.

The colossus of Ramses II was originally discovered in six pieces at the Mît Rahîna archaeological site in 1820 by Italian adventurer Giovanni CAVIGLIA, along with another similar one that remains on site.

CAVIGLIA tried to move the statue to Italy, but was unable to do so because of its 83-ton weight. The khedive Muhammad ‘Alî Pasha then offered the statue to the British Museum in London, but the offer failed for the same reason.

The statue then stood in its place at Mît Rahîna until it was eventually transferred to Ramses Square. (Nevine El-Aref, “Ramses II enters the GEM”, Al-Ahram Weekly, February 1st, 2018).

- -

Islamic Cairo, listed on UN cultural agency UNESCO’s World Heritage List of outstanding cultural and natural heritage sites worldwide, is the best surviving collection of Islamic

monuments in the world, dating from the seventh to the 20th century.

However, over recent decades environmental pollution, population density and other factors have posed increasing threats to the historic city. In 2002, a rehabilitation project to rescue it was launched, and many buildings and monuments were restored, among them those along historic al-Mu‘izz l-Dîn Allah Street and its neighbouring alleyways.

Road surfaces were given appropriate treatment and the street furniture was enhanced. Residential houses were given a makeover, bringing them into line with the area’s historical character and urban fabric, and a high-tech drainage system was installed as well as a new lighting system.

In 2010, the area was declared a pedestrian zone where people could enjoy the magnificent Islamic monuments within their original environment and experience the traditions and customs of those who lived during the various periods of the Islamic era.

Last Sunday, folk music filled the evening air of Bayt al-Qâdî Street in the al-Gamâliyya area of Islamic Cairo as tannûra (whirling dervish) dancers whirled their coloured skirts to the rhythm. Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî and chair of parliament’s Tourism and Aviation Committee Sahar Mustafa, along with other top officials and Egyptian and foreign journalists, flocked to the maq‘ad (seat) of prince Mâmî al-Sayfî to declare its official inauguration after three years of restoration.

Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Azîz, head of the Historic Cairo Rehabilitation Project, said the restoration had come within the framework of a larger project aimed at conserving seven monumental buildings within a national campaign launched by the Ministry of Antiquities to rescue 100 monuments in Islamic Cairo to a budget of LE10 million.

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


He said that the aim of the restoration work on the maq‘ad Mâmî al-Sayfî was to strengthen and consolidate the monument and protect it from further damage. The walls were reinforced, cracks were treated, façades were consolidated, missing and decayed stones replaced, and masonry cleaned and desalinated. Broken woodwork was re-installed and missing parts replaced with others of the same shape, size and material.

The ceilings were consolidated and insulated with special material to prevent the leakage of rainwater. Gilded and metal decorative elements were cleaned and consolidated.

“The maq‘ad Mâmî al-Sayfî is the most beautiful example of all such preserved ‘seats’ in Islamic Cairo,” ‘Abd al-‘Azîz told Al-Ahram Weekly. He added that the seat was the only part remaining from the prince’s original palace, used during the former Ottoman Empire and in earlier times as a commercial centre.

Parts of the palace were demolished in 1897 to build Bayt al-Qâdî Street within the framework of the khedive Ismâ‘îl’s plans for Cairo to be the “Paris of the Orient”.

The size of the remaining building indicates the enormous size of the original palace. The main façade was at the southeastern end of the street now occupied by the Jewellery and Scales Authority and the Gamâliyya Police Station. “The Ministry of Antiquities has now taken over these buildings, and they will be restored and rehabilitated soon,” ‘Abd al-‘Azîz said.

He said the palace was originally built before the time of prince Mâmî, who had

renovated it. The architecture of the surviving seat consists of a main façade overlooking Bayt al-Qâdî Square composed of two parts. The upper part has five pointed horseshoe arches standing on four marble columns with cylindrical bodies and lotus-flower crowns, while the lower part has three small vaulted rooms.

On the left side of the façade, there is the main entrance leading to two sets of stairs.

“Maq‘ads were vital parts of Islamic Cairo’s traditional houses overlooking their inner courtyards,” ‘Abd al-‘Azîz said. They were built on the northern side of the houses higher than ground level in order to catch cool breezes. They were mainly used for men to sit in during hot days, but in larger houses two maq‘ads could co-exist, one for men and one for women.

Prince Mâmî was a Mamluke prince who lived during the reign of Sultan Qâytbây al-Mahmûdî. He was promoted through the ranks of the Mameluke warrior caste until he became a prince.

During the reign of Sultan Muhammad Ibn al-Ashraf Qâytbây, Mâmî came into conflict with the authorities and was arrested and later executed. His head was cut off and hung on the Bâb Zuwayla Gate along with those of other princes on the orders of the sultan. (Nevine El-Aref, “Historic maq‘ad reopens”, Al-Ahram Weekly, February 1st, 2018. Voir également Doaa Elhami, « Le siège de Mâmî, un témoin politique et social », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 21 février).

- -

La Police du Tourisme et des Antiquités d’Aswân, en coopération avec les policiers d’Edfû, a déjoué 4 tentatives de fouilles illicites dans les fondations de 4 habitations situées à 50 m du temple d’Edfû. La perquisition de ces domiciles, qui appartiennent à des retraités, a permis la saisie de stèles inscrites, d’un fragment d’une couronne royale, ainsi qu’une pierre en granit rose. (Mahmûd Millâ, « 4 tentatives de fouilles illégales déjouées à proximité du temple d’Edfû », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 1er février 2018).

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


- -

The colossal statue of the legendary Pharaoh Ramses II moved to its final destination in the grand hall of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) on the Gîza Plateau this week, ready to receive visitors when the GEM opens its doors in the near future. But what is the story of the GEM?

The creation of the GEM is one of the most ambitious construction and antiquities projects ever undertaken in Egypt. Intended as a new and modern home for the boy king Tutankhamun and conservation and archaeological research in Egypt, the GEM’s mission is to host research in the interconnected fields of Egyptology and Egyptian archaeology.

The GEM will be a major museum of ancient Egyptian history and civilisation and an exemplar of Egypt’s interaction and cultural exchange with the rest of the world, both past and present. Located close to the Pyramids of Gîza, the GEM symbolically links Egypt’s past with its future. The museum is part of the Ministry of Antiquities, and it focuses on displaying the diversity of the ancient Egyptian cultural heritage and preserving the fascinating legacy of Egypt.

While the primary display facilities are presently under construction, the GEM Conservation Centre was completed in 2010 and is already bustling with activity. The museum is around 500,000 square metres in size and will cost approximately $1 billion. It will cover and display the history and culture of ancient Egyptian civilisation from the earliest Predynastic evidence through the Graeco-Roman Period. Approximately 100,000 pieces will be displayed and stored at the GEM, the most famous among them being the collection of the boy king Tutankhamun.

The colossal statue of the legendary Pharaoh Ramses II, previously displayed at Cairo’s Ramses Station, will receive visitors to the museum at the entrance. The second solar boat of the Pharaoh Khufu is planned to be restored and displayed at the GEM in a separate gallery when its restoration and conservation is complete. The GEM will have

six huge galleries of thematic and chronological displays, offering thousands of job opportunities during construction and after opening. It will partially open to the public in 2018 and will be capable of receiving millions of visitors each year.

Collaboration and international links are cornerstones of the GEM’s mission, and they include financial and technical support from the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA). From 2008 to 2012, JICA managed the Archaeological Database Department in order to register artefacts that will be owned by the museum. JICA has also offered technical support to the GEM Conservation Centre since 2008. It has offered numerous opportunities to train GEM staff, including courses in Egypt and support for dozens of overseas trips for further training.

In order to support further interactions between GEM personnel and foreign institutions and scholars, in 2012 the GEM launched the GEM Conservation Centre Symposium. This serves as an annual meeting for conservators from the GEM, the Ministry of Antiquities, and Egyptian universities and other institutions and each year has a specific theme. Scholars and keynote speakers from Egypt and abroad are invited.

The GEM has a library containing thousands of references, old and new, printed and digital, and including audio-visual items, to assist scholars. The library focuses on the conservation and technical study of Egyptian materials.

Through a series of internships and internationally funded initiatives, training courses are available to GEM staff in Egypt, Japan, Singapore, the US, the UK, France, Germany and other countries. During these courses of study, Egyptian staff and personnel are trained in archaeology, Egyptology, art and architecture, museology, conservation and the preservation of cultural heritage. GEM staff study Egyptology, restoration and conservation, IT management, business administration, museum studies, exhibition and design, and text drafting.

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


The GEM’s director-general started a cultural seminar programme in 2012, inviting Egyptian and foreign scholars to give talks at the museum’s lecture hall. Through these lectures, GEM staff meet with and engage other scholars, who can consult and collaborate with them regarding recent trends and modern theories of Egyptology, restoration and conservation, museology and cultural heritage.

The GEM’s director-general and his team participate in and organise archaeological congresses at home, projects to save and restore Egyptian antiquities, archaeological excavations, written and photographic guides for the public, and scientific publications of the GEM. The director-general also gives press conferences and media interviews and writes for the foreign, Arab, and Egyptian media, sharing news of the GEM. Coverage of the new museum regularly appears in Egypt and the world.

The GEM is working on numerous projects hand-in-hand with Egyptian and foreign institutions. GEM Conservation Centre staff are presently restoring the copy of the Description de l’Égypte owned by the Supreme Council of Antiquities Ancient Egyptian Documentation Centre, conserving the Abû Rawwâsh boats recently discovered by the Institut français d’archéologie orientale (Ifao), and the Khufu solar boat excavated by Waseda University in Japan.

As a leading conservation, educational, and research centre in the region, the GEM also offers assistance to foreign institutions for training conservators and curators, setting up and planning similar facilities, and creating institutional programmes for new institutions.

The grand vision is that the GEM, the Gîza Pyramids and the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation in Fustât in Cairo will eventually form a triangle of the most-visited destinations in Cairo. They will be a must-see for any visitor to Egypt, and they will also be the home to international collaboration with modern research and conservation facilities.

When the GEM fully opens, it is expected to be run by a private administration with only

the ownership of the antiquities being retained by the state. There will be an expert board of trustees, helping to ensure that the museum runs according to its mission in perpetuity. (Husayn ‘Abd al-Basîr, “A new home for Tutankhamun”, Al-Ahram Weekly, February 1st, 2018).

- -

© Ministère des Antiquités

Three rock-hewn burial shafts filled with coffins and faience pots have been uncovered in Egypt’s Abûsîr necropolis near Cairo.

The discovery was made after authorities received reports of illegal excavations in the area.

Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, told Ahram Online that the antiquities ministry formed an archaeological committee led by Sabrî Farag, the director-general of the Saqqâra Necropolis, to conduct urgent excavations at the site.

Wazîrî explains that excavation revealed three rock-hewn burial shafts containing funerary collections, including four wooden coffins in bad conservation condition bearing hieroglyphic texts.

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


Farag says that one of these texts bears the cartouche of King Ptolemy IV (244 – 204 BC), but the remaining text is not clear enough to decipher. More studies are set to be carried out to determine to which reign the coffins belong.

Farag said the coffins hold four mummified bodies, presumably of birds, along with three round-shaped linen wrappings housing the mummies’ stomachs.

A collection of 38 symbolic pots carved in faience was also found. All the objects are being held in storage at the site for restoration. (Nevine El-Aref, “Rock-hewn burial shaft uncovered in Egypt’s Abûsîr necropolis”, Ahram Online, February 1st, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Découverte de 3 puits funéraires rupestres à Abûsîr », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 1er février ; « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la mise au jour de 3 puits funéraires à Abûsîr », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 1er février ; Three burial chambers engraved with hieroglyphics discovered in Gîza”, Egypt Independent, February 1st ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Découverte de 3 puits funéraires rupestres à Abûsîr », Sada al-Balad, 1er février ; Nasma Réda, « Découverte de trois chambres funéraires à Abûsîr », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 7 février).

- -

Samedi 3 février 2018

‘Alî M., âgé de 46 ans, fonctionnaire à la Sécurité sociale et ancien candidat aux législatives de 2015, a été écroué pour fouilles illicites effectuées dans les fondations de sa maison située à Isnâ. La Police du Tourisme et des Antiquités a également arrêté Khâlid E., ouvrier âgé de 35 ans, pour les mêmes motifs. (Amânî Khayrî, « Mise en examen à Louqsor d’un ancien candidat aux législatives pour fouilles illégales », al-Tahrîr, 3 février 2018).

- -

Mercredi 7 février 2018

En 1952, le grand hôtel Shepheard disparaissait après l’incendie du Caire. En 1971, l’Opéra du Caire était à son tour incendié. Aujourd’hui, c’est un autre joyau du patrimoine égyptien qui est voué à disparaître. Il s’agit de l’hôtel Grand Continental, situé place de l’Opéra, cette place qui était dans le temps le joyau du Caire khédivial, et qui, aujourd’hui, a presque perdu son cachet patrimonial.

Les habitants du centre-ville se sont réveillés cette semaine pour trouver des ouvriers en train de démolir l’hôtel Grand Continental de l’Opéra. Le bâtiment était bouclé par les forces de sécurité. Un vrai cauchemar. « Tous les experts sont d’accord pour dire que la démolition n’est pas nécessaire, et que le bâtiment peut être restauré. C’est un patrimoine d’une valeur inestimable qui ne sera jamais remplacé », souligne Dr Monica Hanna, membre fondateur de la Campagne nationale pour la supervision du patrimoine et des monuments, fondée en 2013.

Lorsque les travaux de démolition ont commencé, les membres de la Campagne ont envoyé une pétition au président de la République demandant l’arrêt de la destruction de l’hôtel, afin de préserver le patrimoine historique du pays. « Les travaux de démolition ne sont pas menés correctement. L’ordre de démolition exige seulement la démolition de l’intérieur du bâtiment en gardant toutes les façades. Et pour ce faire, il fallait d’abord installer des échafaudages pour consolider les murs. Ce qui n’est pas le cas », explique Hanna.

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


Selon les historiens, ce qui reste du bâtiment n’a rien à voir avec l’hôtel construit à la fin du XIXe siècle avec sa splendeur et sa beauté architecturale. « L’actuel hôtel n’a rien à voir avec l’original. À chaque fois qu’un nouveau propriétaire achetait l’hôtel, des modifications étaient faites sur le bâtiment. Même la célèbre terrasse a été détruite en 1949 et a été remplacée par les magasins et ateliers qu’on trouve jusqu’à aujourd’hui. Le bâtiment est déserté depuis plus de 20 ans », explique Dr Suhayr Zakî Hawwâs, membre du National Organisation for Urban Harmony (NOUH).

Bien que l’hôtel ait été construit il y a plus de 100 ans, il n’a jamais été affilié au ministère des Antiquités, mais il dépend du secteur des affaires. L’hôtel a été inscrit en tant que bâtiment à caractère architectural spécial en 2008 dans la catégorie C, ce qui veut dire qu’il était en très mauvais état et exigeait une intervention rapide, ce qui n’a pas été fait. « Chaque jour qui passait sans travaux de restauration, l’état de l’hôtel s’aggravait. Des parties du plafond se sont effondrées et des fissures profondes sont apparues dans les murs ».

L’état du Grand Continental exigeait la démolition pour éviter tout

danger. (© Mohamad Adel)

« L’hôtel a perdu toutes ses caractéristiques, il ne reste que sa valeur historique dans la mémoire des gens », reprend Hawwâs. Bien qu’elle soit membre du NOUH, qui a recommandé la démolition du palais, elle refuse la destruction totale du bâtiment. « La démolition était inévitable. L’état de l’hôtel était devenu tellement mauvais qu’il n’y avait aucune autre alternative. Mais il faut savoir que cette démolition suit des critères particuliers. Pas question de toucher aux façades », dit-elle,

soulignant qu’elle passe voir les travaux sur le chantier, afin de s’assurer que tout va dans la bonne direction.

The Egyptian General Co. For Tourism & Hotels (E.G.O.T.H.), propriétaire de l’hôtel et qui exécute les travaux de démolition, assure que « tout va dans le bon chemin ». « La décision de démolir l’hôtel n’est pas venue du jour au lendemain. Elle fait suite à des études approfondies de l’état du bâtiment. Les études techniques ont conclu que le bâtiment dans son état actuel représente un vrai danger. Les installations ont vieilli et sont totalement inadaptées aux exigences du tourisme moderne. L’état à l’intérieur est très mauvais, des parties du plafond de certaines pièces, surtout aux deuxième et troisième étages, se sont effondrées, et même le toit de l’entrée principale du rez-de-chaussée s’est effondré complètement en janvier 2016 », souligne Mirvat Hataba, PDG de la Compagnie holding égyptienne pour le tourisme, le cinéma et les hôtels. Et d’ajouter que pour restaurer l’hôtel, la compagnie ne peut pas payer l’énorme somme d’argent nécessaire.

En fait, l’ordre de démolition n’est pas nouveau. Le gouvernorat du Caire avait délivré un permis de démolition de l’hôtel en juillet 2015 qui n’a jamais eu lieu à cause de la présence des ouvriers et des propriétaires des magasins qui occupent une grande partie de l’hôtel. L’exécution de l’ordre de démolition a été suspendue à plusieurs reprises, afin de résoudre le différend entre les propriétaires des boutiques et E.G.O.T.H.

Il fallait faire des négociations pour indemniser les locataires qui, à chaque fois, demandaient des indemnisations plus élevées. « Certains propriétaires de magasins ont accepté de prendre une grande somme d’argent et de quitter leurs locaux, alors que d’autres ont préféré une somme plus modeste à condition de se procurer des boutiques dans le nouvel hôtel qui sera construit », explique Hawwâs.

En fait, un nouvel hôtel doit être construit. Il gardera l’aspect du Grand Continental. Il aura les mêmes façades, utilisera le même fer

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


forgé et gardera les mêmes noms de salles. Le nouvel hôtel sera de la même hauteur que l’ancien et aura la même structure en forme de H. « Dans nos recommandations au gouvernorat et à la compagnie responsable, nous avons demandé à ce que le nouvel hôtel garde le même esprit que l’ancien, surtout que les constructions du Caire khédivial suivent un prototype particulier, on ne peut pas accepter une construction très moderne par exemple », assure Hawwâs.

Les amoureux du patrimoine sont très déçus par les travaux. Ils craignent que ces règles ne soient pas respectées, surtout que la dernière fois qu’un bâtiment historique place de l’Opéra avait été rasé, Le Caire a perdu un Opéra et n’a gagné qu’un parking en béton de plusieurs étages.

En fait, la démolition du Grand Continental n’est qu’une sonnette d’alarme pour ne plus laisser les bâtiments à caractère patrimonial et historique sans maintenance et supervision continues au point que l’on soit obligé de les démolir. (Hala Farès, « Le Grand Continental n’est plus », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 7 février 2018. Voir également Hanaa Al-Mekkawi, « La détresse des commerçants du Grand Continental », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 28 février).

- -

Jeudi 8 février 2018

Although the Grand Egyptian Museum overlooking Gîza Plateau will celebrate a soft opening in December, it is the Egyptian Museum, which will remain one of Egypt’s archaeological icons.

To highlight some of its distinguished treasured collections, the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr overlooking Gîza Plateau is to exhibit at its foyer and on a weekly basis, three of its artefacts that were located in a hidden display area, repatriated from abroad and stored in the basement.

This week the mummy of Unknown Man E and a gilded cartonage mask with a shroud are the selected objects going on special display.

Ilhâm Salâh, head of the Museums Sector at the Ministry of Antiquities, said the gilded cartonage mask with a shroud was repatriated from the United States in 2017. The shroud looks like a net with beads used since the 21st Dynasty as a mummy cover.

Meanwhile, Unknown Man E is wrapped in sheepskin with trimmed toenails dyed with henna and an open mouth, which makes the mummy look as though he had been poisoned. The mummy possibly belongs to Prince Pentawere, a son of the 20th Dynasty King Ramses III, who had been involved in a conspiracy against his father.

“The gruesome mummy of Unknown Man E, also known as the ‘Screaming Mummy’, has long puzzled scholars,” renowned Egyptologist Zâhî Hawwâs told Al-Ahram Weekly, adding that this particular mummy is surrounded in mystery. Although he was re-buried in the royal mummy cache of Dayr al-Baharî, he was not wrapped in the usual fine linen bandages like the rest of the mummies. Instead, he was wrapped in sheepskin, which was considered impure by the ancient Egyptians. His hands and feet were tied with leather thongs. He was not even mummified, but was merely left to dry in natron and then had some resin poured into his open mouth.

“Such unusual mummification has perplexed Egyptologists and no one has succeeded in knowing the story behind such a mummy until the launch of the Egyptian Mummy Project several years ago under my direction to create a complete database of forensic information related to the mummy collection at the Egyptian Museum,” Hawwâs said.

The DNA, he explains, extracted from the bones of the mummies of the Unknown Man E and Ramses III to identify the familial

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


relationship, if any, confirmed that Unknown Man E is indeed the son of Ramses III. Hanging marks around the mummy’s neck match the account of the Harem Conspiracy Papyrus, which mentions that Pentawere was sentenced to be hanged. Considering the mummy’s disgraced status, and the way he was buried, he can be identified as the conspirator, Prince Pentawere, who plotted the murder of his father Ramses III. The Harem Conspiracy Papyrus is currently on display at the Museo Egizio di Torino.

Hawwâs told the Weekly of a conspiracy plotted against the life of Ramses III by his second wife, Tiye, and her son, Prince Pentawere. The conspirators included several army commanders, soldiers, servants from the palace, women from the harem of Ramses III and magicians. According to the papyrus, the conspirators were captured, and the text deals with their trial proceedings. However, the text does not indicate whether Ramses III was murdered. It only mentions that the “royal barque was overturned”, and referred to the king as the “great god”. This ambiguity caused quite a number of scholarly arguments and controversies, until the launch of the Egyptian Mummy Project.

As part of the project, on examining the mummy of Ramses III, Hawwâs pointed out new evidence about his life and death. He died at the age of 60 and suffered from atherosclerosis. But he did not die of old age. Further examination of the neck region revealed that someone surprised the king from behind, and stabbed him in the neck with a sharp, pointed weapon, like a dagger. The width of the severe cut in the soft is 35mm, and it extends deep to reach the lower end of the fifth to seventh vertebrae. The wound severed all the structures of the neck including the oesophagus, trachea and the large blood vessels.

CT-scans also showed that the mummy retained its entire original amulets. A Wadjet eye amulet, representing the eye of Horus, was inserted in the rim of the throat wound. The Wadjet eye is a symbol of protection and healing. It represents the eye of Horus that

was wounded in one of the battles between Horus and Seth and magically restored by the god Thoth. By placing this amulet inside the wound, the embalmers hoped for the healing of the king’s wound in the afterlife. The scans also showed four amulets representing the four sons of Horus inserted in the chest among the bandages to protect the mummy. (Nevine El-Aref, “Strange way to mummify”, Al-Ahram Weekly, February 8, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Pour la première fois, le Musée Égyptien expose la "momie hurlante" », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 1er février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le Musée Égyptien expose la "momie hurlante" », Sada al-Balad, 4 février ; “‘Screaming Mummy’ attracts 20,000 visitors to Egyptian Museum”, Egypt Independent, February 13).

- -

The remains of a dinosaur found in Dâkhla Oasis

A rare 80 million-year-old dinosaur has been discovered in the Dâkhla Oasis in Egypt by a group of scientists from Mansûra University.

The dinosaur, called Mansourasaurus, is a Titanosaur — the world’s heaviest dinosaur — from the Cretaceous Age 145 million years ago. The discovery would provide palaeontologists — scientists specialised in the study of fossils — and geologists with needed information about the history of planet Earth.

The team that made the discovery is headed by Hishâm Sallâm, head of the Mansûra University Vertebrate Palaeontology Centre, writing in the journal Nature, Ecology and Evolution and three palaeontologists: Sanâ’ al-Sayyid, Imân al-Dâwûdî and Sâra Sâbir.

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


Most of the team initially expected Mansourasaurus, named after Mansûra University, to have been a member of an ancient African lineage in light of the theory that Africa was separated from Earth in the Cretaceous Age. But it turned out that its closest affinities were with European sauropods, characterised by their very long necks, long tails and small heads, Sallâm wrote in the journal.

“This provided the first compelling evidence of the movement of dinosaurs between Africa and Europe in the later part of the Cretaceous. A find like this shows how little we still know about the Late Cretaceous of Africa, and has motivated us all to keep up the search for new fossils in Egypt.”

The project that Sallâm heads aims to fill a 30 million-year gap following the extinction of dinosaurs in Africa in the Late Cretaceous period, from which very few fossils of land-living vertebrates were found.

While there were excavations in South America, Europe and Asia, no fossils were found in Africa.

The team had first discovered bones of the dinosaur in December 2013. In March 2014 they excavated it as a whole and took it to Mansûra University for research and published the findings in Nature.

After comparing it to other dinosaurs in South America, Europe and Asia the team found that it is a rare species never before discovered.

“Sixty-five per cent of the dinosaur was found. It is very similar to European dinosaurs so we think there must have been some kind of bridge between the two continents, Africa and Europe, since dinosaurs neither swim nor fly,” Sallâm said in a TV talk show last week.

The importance of the discovery is that this dinosaur existed some 15 million years before dinosaurs became extinct and thus it reveals a lot about the history and climate of Earth back then, professor of geology at Cairo University ‘Abbâs al-Sharâkî said, analysing the geological and historical importance of the discovery.

“The way dinosaurs disappeared is still a mystery. Some 65 million years ago, in the Stone Age, dinosaurs became extinct as well as three-quarters of all living creatures, both plants and animals,” al-Sharâkî explained.

There are three scientific explanations for the disappearance of these creatures. The first is based on the assumption that a huge earthquake separated the northern part of the earth including Europe from the southern part of the Earth including Africa. Then the Mediterranean Sea was formed.

“During this era there were signs of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. This is natural since whenever earthquakes occur there are cracks in the ground that cause lava to come to the surface and the atmosphere becomes full of smoke and gases such as methane, carbon dioxide and ammonia. Some of these gases were poisonous to these creatures and so they died,” al-Sharâkî said.

Another theory is that huge comets the size of mountains hit the planet and resulted in earthquakes. There are signs of these collisions in America and Africa like the ones in Egypt in the ‘Uwaynât Mountain.

The third theory says that the revolving axis of Earth changed which resulted in extreme climate change that killed the dinosaurs.

“Specialists need to study dinosaur bones and read the climactic circumstances and the changes that occurred to the dinosaurs at the time to know the true story of what happened,” al-Sharâkî said.

Team member Sâbir agrees. “We shall continue our search in the area for the rest of the dinosaur’s body. We may even discover fossils of other vertebrates that were living at the time in the area.”

“We do not have many of this type of dinosaurs discovered around the world. There was one discovered in Tunisia that was 150 million years old. Another, 95 million years old, was discovered in Algeria on the Moroccan border.” says al-Sharâkî.

al-Sharâkî said it was good the dinosaur was in good shape as this would help

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


scientists know more about it and the era it lived in.

“Mansourasaurus is what scientists call a guiding fossil as it tells us the features of the creature, the climate and circumstances it lived in. We can read from it the climatic state that it lived in and whether it lived in a place full of rivers and lakes, etc.” (Mai Samih, “Dinosaur with an Egyptian name”, Al-Ahram Weekly, February 8, 2018. Voir également MENA, « Mansourasaurus est la première preuve matérielle sur le lien terrestre entre l’Afrique et l’Europe il y a 80 millions d’années », al-Shurûq, 31 janvier ; Bassâm Ramadân, « Le découvreur de Mansourasaurus dévoile les détails de la découverte du premier dinosaure égyptien », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 31 janvier ; Doaa Elhami, « Mansourasaurus, le maillon manquant », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 7 février).

- -

The Gîza Plateau, which houses the Great Pyramid of the Pharaoh Khufu, the last of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is not only one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, but is also one that has a special place in the hearts of people of all nationalities.

However, in the aftermath of the 25 January Revolution the area saw negligence and the encroachment of various businesses, disfiguring the serenity of the site and also putting off visitors.

Two years ago, the Ministry of Antiquities in collaboration with the Tourist and Antiquities Police put an end to such problems by removing the encroachments and resuming the Gîza Plateau Development Project that had been stopped owing to a lack of funding.

The project aims to improve the site in order to make it more tourist-friendly and give it state-of-the-art security and lighting systems.

The first phase of the project was completed in 2010 with funds of LE52 million provided by the Ministry of Tourism. It included the improvement of the roads surrounding the Pyramids and the Sphinx and the installation of surveillance cameras.

In 2016, the government provided the funds for the project to resume.

“Almost 70 per cent of the project has now been completed, and it is scheduled to open in April,” Muhammad Ismâ‘îl, director-general of the project, told Al-Ahram Weekly.

He said that after the completion of the project the plateau would be proclaimed a pedestrian area and access around the plateau would be by golf cart. A visiting route has been established to take visitors on an unforgettable promenade through the Old Kingdom necropolis. Cars and buses will park in a parking area in front of the plateau’s new entrance gate on the Cairo-Fayyûm Road. The current gate on the Pyramids Road will be closed and used only for official visits.

A visitor centre will greet visitors upon arrival, preparing them for their tour with a detailed map of every monument on the site as well as background information on the Plateau and the Old Kingdom kings, queens, officials and priests.

“State-of-the-art technology will be used to display the internal design of the Pyramids through augmented-reality screens,” Ismâ‘îl said, adding that a mobile application for the Gîza Plateau would be launched by the ministry on the opening of the Project. An animated documentary for children would also be provided at the visitor centre.

The tour would include 14 stops starting and ending at the visitor centre. The first stop would be the panorama area where visitors will be able to admire the three Pyramids together at once. It would then go round the Menkawre, Khafre and Khufu Pyramids, he said.

“This route is the opposite of the older one, which started from the Great Pyramid of Khufu right next to the panorama area,” Ismâ‘îl pointed out. He said that the aim of the

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


new route was to make visitors more familiar with the site until they came face-to-face with the three Pyramids in the panorama area.

On their return, visitors will be able to visit the Gîza Western Cemetery where the tombs of Old Kingdom officials are located, as well as the solar boats. The tour will end with the Sphinx.

A zone outside the archaeological site with the plateau as its backdrop has been allocated behind the visitor centre for horse and camel-riding as well as photo shoots.

Beside the visitor centre, there is also an administration building for ministry employees and an education centre that aims to educate junior archaeologists and young people on archaeological work. The project also includes 14 tourist bazaars, a bookshop, a cafeteria and a restaurant.

The education centre is near completion, as are the service roads to be used by the Tourism and Antiquities Police, the Ministry of Antiquities, or emergency vehicles.

Rubbish bins, information desks, and portable and fixed toilets will also be provided on site. Maps and signboards with detailed information on the different monuments on the site will be provided at the foot of each monument. (Nevine El-Aref, “Gîza development to open in April”, Al-Ahram Weekly, February 8, 2018. Voir également MENA, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie dévoile la date d’achèvement du projet de réaménagement du plateau de Gîza », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 3 février ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie : Achèvement du projet de réaménagement du plateau de Gîza mi-2018 », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 3 février).

- -

Gîza’s Western Cemetery was buzzing last Saturday as visitors crossed the long sandy streets lined with mastaba tombs to catch a glimpse of the luxurious and newly discovered Fifth-Dynasty tomb of Hetpet, a priestess of the goddess Hathor.

Although the tomb has a simple superstructure made of mud-brick covered

with mortar, its inner walls are painted with rare scenes depicting monkeys in different positions.

Monkeys were domestic animals in ancient Egypt, and the first scene shows a monkey picking fruit while the second displays a monkey dancing in front of an orchestra.

Similar scenes can be found in other tombs, among them on the walls of the 12th Dynasty tomb of Khnoum Hetep II in Banî Hasan in the Minyâ governorate and in the Old Kingdom tomb of Ka-Iber in Saqqâra, which shows a monkey dancing to a guitar.

The smelting of ore, the fabrication of leather and papyri boats, and music and dancing performances are also shown on the Hetpet tomb walls.

“It was unusual for a woman in ancient Egypt to be buried alone without her husband or children. Only queens and princesses of the ruling family had their own tombs,” Egyptologist Zâhî Hawwâs told Al-Ahram Weekly.

“Although Hetpet was not a very important lady, her tomb is very significant and shows that she could have been the lover of a top-ranking official in the Fifth Dynasty. This

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


explains why she has such a vast painted tomb,” he said.

Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities who led the excavation, described the discovery as “important” because it revealed more secrets of the Western Cemetery which houses more than 2,000 tombs of Old Kingdom officials.

The cemetery has been excavated by archaeological missions since 1843. “It is a very promising area, and it is expected that more tombs will be found,” Wazîrî told the Weekly, adding that the newly discovered tomb was not Hetpet’s main burial where she was supposed to rest for all eternity.

He believes that Hetpet had another tomb in the cemetery that could be a few metres from the newly discovered one. “Work will continue to uncover the expected tomb,” Wazîrî said.

“This is the first discovery to be announced in 2018,” Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî said, adding that four painted blocks of the tomb, as well as parts of its false doors, had been unearthed in 1909 and sent to the Berlin Museum and the Liebieghaus Museum in Frankfurt in Germany.

© Nasma Réda

He said the paintings showed scenes depicting the tomb’s owner sitting or following farmers harvesting or on a boat crossing the Nile. The false doors depicted images of Hetpet’s children holding offerings and her parents, al-‘Inânî said.

“Hetpet’s tomb was not fully uncovered until October 2017 when the Egyptian mission started excavations in the Gîza Western Cemetery,” al-‘Inânî said. He added that it showed the architectural style and decorative

elements of the Fifth Dynasty, with an entrance leading to an L-shaped shrine with a purification basin.

At its western rear end there is a rectangular arcade lined with incense and offering holders. There is also a niche with a missing statue of the tomb’s owner. The tomb has wall paintings in a very good state of conservation depicting Hetpet in different hunting and fishing scenes or sitting before an offering table receiving offerings from her children.

The Gîza Western Cemetery is tucked into a hill alongside causeways, and the tombs are arrayed in neat rows around the Pyramids in a grid pattern. Only a few of the tombs are open to the public.

The tomb discovery at its western cemetery. © Ahmed Roumeh

Among these are two Old Kingdom tombs belonging to the high priest Imery and his eldest son Nefer Bau Ptah, a superintendent of the royal palace during the Fifth Dynasty reign of the Pharaoh Khufu.

Imery’s tomb is one of the most exquisitely decorated in the cemetery. Built of limestone and divided into three sections consisting of an entrance hall, a corridor, and an offering hall, it is decorated with vividly coloured mural paintings. These depict the offerings made to the deceased by his followers, as well as scenes of daily life, agriculture and craftsmanship. A clarinet player is shown with the details of his posture, playing technique and fingering.

In the burial chamber there is a scene featuring details of wine production. Scenes showing harvests, fishing, planting, acrobatics, banqueting, hunting and offering sacrifices to the gods are also shown.

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


The tomb of Nefer Bau Ptah, first uncovered in 1925 by Egyptologist George REISNER, is a large rock-hewn tomb adjacent to Imery’s and includes five rooms and a crypt on its southern side. The entrance hall features a life-sized image of the deceased carved out of the limestone wall. A corridor leading to two offering rooms displaying scenes of people offering gifts to the deceased is also in the tomb.

The tomb contains scenes showing scribes registering the harvest, a man throwing grain into a vat, and cattle being dragged for counting while donations are recorded in registers.

Time has taken its toll on the paintings, as most of them have faded. One scene featuring a tax collector holding a man by the scruff of the neck and beating him to force him to dig deeper into his loincloth to produce money is shown on one of the tomb’s walls.

The taxpayer’s agonised face peers out in warning to those who dared to fight the system at the time. (Nevine El-Aref, “Priestess tomb uncovered”, Al-Ahram Weekly, February 8, 2018. Voir également Samar Sâlih, « Hetpet : dernière découverte datant de la Ve dynastie », al-Watan, 3 février ; “4,400 year-old tomb of top pharaoh official discovered in Egypt”, Egypt Independent, February 3 ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie annonce une nouvelle découverte dans la nécropole ouest de Gîza », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 3 février ; Nevine El-Aref, “Tomb of 5th Dynasty top official Hetpet discovered near Pyramid of Khafre on Gîza Plateau”, Ahram Online, February 3 ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Rahmân, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte d’une tombe de la Ve dynastie », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 3 février ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « 1ère découverte en 2018 : la tombe de Hetpet », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 3 février ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Mise au jour d’une tombe de l’Ancien Empire dans la nécropole ouest de Gîza », Watanî, 3 février ; Ranâ Gawhar, « Mise au jour d’une tombe vieille de 4 400 ans à proximité de la pyramide de Chéphren », al-Ahrâm, 4 février ; Ivonne Midhat, « Zâhî Hawwâs dévoile les secrets de

la tombe de Hetpet », al-Shurûq, 4 février ; Nasma Réda, « Hetpet se révèle au grand jour », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 7 février).

- -

Vendredi 9 février 2018

Secretary-General of Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities Mustafa Wazîrî denied on Wednesday media reports that a 15-metre-deep hole was discovered behind the walls of Tutankhamun’s tomb during a third radar survey carried out on the western and northern walls of the king’s burial chamber.

The survey started early in February and lasted for one week.

Director of the Department of Foreign Missions Muhammad Ismâ‘îl told Ahram Online that the head of the survey team says that at least three weeks are needed to study the results of the survey.

Ismâ‘îl also denied media reports of a new archaeological discovery in the area, describing these reports as a breach of the antiquities law, which stipulates that any announcement should first be approved by the ministry’s permanent committee in order to ensure scientific credibility.

In 2015, British Egyptologist Nicholas REEVES published a theory suggesting that the northern and western walls of Tutankhamun’s tomb house hidden doorways that could lead to the final resting place of Queen Nefertiti, the wife and co-regent of the monotheistic King Akhenaten and the golden king’s step mother.

REEVES’ theory was based on his examination of 3D photos of the tomb. Former Minister of Antiquities Mamdûh al-Damâtî was enthusiastic about the theory and

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


asked REEVES to travel to Luxor to prove his hypothesis. Two radar surveys and an infrared examination have since been conducted, but have given inconclusive results.

A Japanese radar survey suggested the existence of void spaces, while a survey by an American team asserted that there is nothing behind the walls.

Meanwhile, the infrared researchers asked to re-examine the walls, as the environment inside the tomb was not conducive to accurate results. The third radar survey was then conducted by an Italian team from Turin University to settle the matter. (Nevine El-Aref, “Supreme Council of Antiquities denies claims of new discovery in King Tutankhamun’s tomb”, Ahram Online, February 9, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie entame des relevés radar de la tombe de Toutankhamon », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 1er février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Une mission italienne entreprend un 3ème relevé radar de la tombe de Toutankhamon », Sada al-Balad, 1er février ; Nevine El-Aref, “Radar scan underway to search for hidden chambers in Tutankhamun’s tomb”, Ahram Online, February 1st ; “Archaeologists in Egypt begin radar scans for secret chamber in Tutankhamun’s tomb”, Egypt Independent, February 2 ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie nie l’existence de cavités derrière la tombe de Toutankhamon », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 8 février).

- -


Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî, Minister of Tourism Rânyâ al-Mashat and Suez Governor Ahmad Hâmid are set to inspect a development project to make Sinai’s Moses Springs area more tourist friendly.

The inspection tour will be attended by a number of foreign ambassadors, including those of Brazil, Cuba, Belgium, Chile, Argentina and Greece, as well as top officials from the Ministry of Antiquities.

The project started in late 2015 in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism

under the direction of Presidential Assistant for National and Strategic Projects Ibrâhîm Mihlib.

Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, explains that the Moses Springs area had been suffering neglect and a lack of maintenance, and that the springs were covered in sand.

Wazîrî said that the project aims to provide the area with more facilities, which includes renovating old kiosks and restrooms and the establishment of restaurants, cafeterias and bazaars for Sinai handicrafts.

Main and side roads in the area have been paved, and a new solar energy lighting system has been installed.

The budget for the project was EGP 8 million provided by the Ministry of Tourism, and the Arab Contractors Company has carried out the development work.

Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî, head of the Ancient Egyptian Department at the Ministry of Antiquities, explains that the first phase of the project, which has been completed with a budget of EGP 3 million, included the renovation of seven springs ranging between six and eight metres in depth, as well as the installation of sun shades and special lighting systems.

The second phase is set to start immediately and will include the establishment of a ticket station, a wide parking area, shops for handicrafts, and a wall to be built surrounding the area.

Moses Springs is located in Râs Sidr city along the Red Sea in South Sinai, almost 30km south of Ahmad Hamdî Tunnel, and covers almost 164 feddans. The area is composed of a group of hot springs, some sweet and some bitter, forming a small fertile oasis with natural palm trees. It includes seven springs that date to the Byzantine era, a number of clay ovens, and a residential settlement.

The water from the springs is said to have healing properties, particularly for diabetes patients, and can purportedly strengthen the body and help regulate high blood pressure.

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


The underground spring supplies water to the area’s monastery, which is believed to sit on the spot where Moses met his future wife after protecting her and her sisters from an aggressive group of local shepherds. According to the monks at the monastery, the well never dries up and is the monastery’s main source of water. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egyptian ministers inspect project to develop Moses Springs in Sinai”, Ahram Online, February 10, 2018. Voir également Amal ‘Abbâs, « Les ministres de l’Archéologie et du Tourisme, 6 ambassadeurs et le gouverneur de Suez inaugurent les sources de Moïse », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 10 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inspecte les sources de Moïse en compagnie du ministre du Tourisme et du gouverneur de Suez », Sada al-Balad, 10 février ; Ranâ Gawhar, « Les sources de Moïse transformées en un site touristique international », al-Ahrâm, 11 février).

- -

Assistant Antiquities Minister for Engineering Affairs Hishâm Ibrâhîm said on Friday that the teams of restorers who are carrying out restoration and renovation of the Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue, known as the Jewish Temple, in Alexandria, have completed about 25 percent of its work.

In statements to al-Masrî al-Yawm, Ibrâhîm said that the renovation project of the temple has been going on for more than three months and that the ongoing work needs to be precise in implementation due to the sensitivity of the task, which requires a longer time.

He pointed out that the project is expected to be completed by the end of 2018 at an

initial cost of LE100 million, funded by the Egyptian government.

Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue was built in 1354. It was bombed by the French during their invasion of Egypt in 1798 and was re-built in 1850 with contributions from the Muhammad ‘Alî dynasty. It is included on the World Monuments Fund’s 2018 list of monuments at risk.

Although services are still held in the synagogue, it now caters to a very small community due to the dwindling number of Jews in Alexandria and Egypt more broadly. (“25 % of restoration of Alexandria Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue completed”, Egypt Independent, February 10, 2018. Voir également Nevine Camil, « L’adjoint du ministre de l’Archéologie inspecte le projet de restauration de la synagogue d’Alexandrie », Watanî, 17 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le président du département des antiquités islamiques et coptes : Le patrimoine juif d’Égypte n’a aucun lien avec Israël », Sada al-Balad, 1er mars).

- -

Dimanche 11 février 2018

A new 3D reconstruction of the face of the ancient Egyptian queen Nefertiti was recently unveiled by archaeologists using the latest 3D imaging technology.

According to local and international media outlets, it took 500 hours to rebuild the

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


queen’s face, with a bust where jewellery was handmade by designers from Dior. However, the 3400-year-old Queen’s skin colour sparked controversy with people claiming her skin would in reality have been darker.

The painting of the face was conducted by Scientists from the University of Bristol, who have digitally painted the face of the ancient queen to embody her true features.

Before the painting work, the photographer, Idan DODSON received permission from the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities and the Egyptian Museum to remove the protective glass case that covers the Nefertiti mummy to examine it. (“New 3D reconstruction of Queen Nefertiti stirs controversy”, Egypt Independent, February 11, 2018. Voir également Basant Gamîl, « Reconstitution faciale de Néfertiti », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 11 février).

- -

Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al-‘Inânî, a nommé Dr Mustafa Amîn président du département des antiquités islamiques, coptes et juives. (Samar al-Naggâr, « Mustafa Amîn nommé président du département des antiquités islamiques, coptes et juives », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 12 février 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Nomination de Mustafa Amîn président du département des antiquités islamiques, coptes et juives », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 12 février ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Mustafa Amîn nommé président du département des antiquités islamiques, coptes et juives », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 12 février).

- -

Mardi 13 février 2018

A set of 124 artefacts from the treasured collections of the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) in Cairo’s Bâb al-Khalq neighbourhood and the Textile Museum on al-Mu‘izz Street have been curated and packed for transfer to the Suhâg National Museum for exhibition, according to Ilhâm Salâh, head of the museums sector at Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities.

The new museum, which is set to open soon, will display the artefacts in an exhibit that reflects the unique history of Suhâg, according to Salâh.

Among the 108 artefacts curated from the MIA are a clay pot with handles and small base, a collection of jars and painted clay lamps of different shapes and sizes.

Also selected were collection of wooden paintings and canvases with scenes that depict a woman standing inside a domed doorway and a man on the banks of the Nile.

A small Persian manuscript relating the folkloric love story of Qays Ibn al-Mulawwah

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


and Layla in the 7th century Arabia, known as Layla and Majnûn (Leila and the mad one), is also among the selected objects. The manuscript features 18 coloured illustrations.

The 16 artefacts chosen from the Textile Museum include pieces of fabric decorated with faience ceramic beads, remains of children’s linen robes and a rectangular piece of a Kiswa, the cloth draped over the Ka’ba in Mecca.

The Suhâg National Museum was launched in 1983 but has not yet been completed due to disagreements over interior design and exhibits, as well as budget difficulties after the 25 January revolution.

Work resumed on the museum in early 2017.

Salâh told Ahram Online that the exhibit includes artefacts that had been unearthed in different sites near Suhâg.

It would also display pieces that represent the traditions, customs, industry and handicrafts of the area’s inhabitants, such as their traditional costumes and jewellery.

“The concept of the museum is no longer dependent on placing artefacts next to each other to illustrate ancient Egyptian civilisation,” Salâh said.

“This is a new philosophy that the Ministry of Antiquities is adopting in order to turn the country’s regional museums into more

educational, cultural and productive institutions,” Salâh asserted.

She added that instead, the aim now is to provide a broader educational service to visitors and raise archaeological awareness and loyalty towards Egypt by showing visitors about how their ancestors built such a great civilisation through scenes of daily life and culture.

Egypt’s regional museums have sometimes not fulfilled their true potential because they have often displayed objects without a thematic storyline, she pointed out, resulting in less than a fair share of visitors.

“Every regional museum should reflect the city or town in which it is located,” Salâh said, explaining that in the Suhâg Museum, for example, the exhibition design provided clear information about the history of Suhâg, Abydos and Akhmîm, as well as the role played by local historical rulers in building Egyptian civilisation. (Nevine El-Aref, “Collection of Islamic artefacts to be transferred to the Suhâg National Museum”, Ahram Online, February 13, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Sélection de pièces du musée d’Art islamique et du musée des Textiles pour leur transfert vers le musée de Suhâg », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 12 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Des pièces sélectionnées du musée d’Art islamique et du musée des Textiles pour être exposées dans le musée de Suhâg », Sada al-Balad, 12 février ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Transfert de pièces archéologiques vers le musée de Suhâg en vue de son inauguration », al-Ahrâm, 13 février ; Ahmad Mansûr, « 108 pièces archéologiques emballées en vue de leur transfert vers le musée de Suhâg », al-Yawm

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


al-Sâbi‘, 19 février ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inspecte le musée de Suhâg », Watanî, 27 février).

- -

Dr Ahmad Kurayima, professeur de charia à l’université d’al-Azhar, a mis en garde le ministre de l’Archéologie contre les découvertes archéologiques. « Fouiller les tombes des pharaons est canoniquement illicite (harâm) », assure-t-il. « Fouiller les sépultures pharaoniques constitue une profanation et une insulte envers nos ancêtres. Tout comme les exposer à l’étranger en échange de quelques sous », ajoute-t-il. « La tombe est l’habitation post mortem de l’être humain. La Chine n’agit pas ainsi avec ses morts ». S’adressant au ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al-‘Inânî, Dr Kurayima conclut : « Nos ancêtres les pharaons ont droit au repos éternel ». (« Ahmad Kurayima met en garde le ministre de l’Archéologie : Fouiller les tombes des pharaons est harâm », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 13 février 2018).

- -


Remains of the temple

The Egyptian Excavation Field School at the Kom al-Rasras archaeological site in Aswân has uncovered the remains of a sandstone temple dating back to the 2nd century CE, during Egypt’s Roman period.

The temple bears the cartouches of a number of Roman emperors such as Domitian (81-96 CE), Hadrian (117-138 CE) and Antonius Pius (138-161 CE).

Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî, head of ancient Egyptian antiquities at the Ministry of Antiquities, explains that excavators also

discovered the temple’s sanctuary, which consists of three chambers. The sanctuary leads to a cross-sectional hall connected to another hall, which is accessed by a sandstone ramp. Found inside the temple were remains of stone engraving with stars representing the sky, possibly a part of the temple’s ceiling.

“The discovered site might be connected to Gabal al-Silsila area and the temple was most probably a part of the residential area of the quarry workers,” al-‘Ashmâwî told Ahram Online. He explained that the hieroglyphic name of the site is “Khenu”.

The name is engraved on one of the discovered blocks, which connects the site to the residential city. Further excavations may lead to the discovery of the residential area of al-Silsila quarries.

Bâsim Gihâd, Assistant to the Minister of Antiquities for Human Resources and Training, said that the Kom al-Rasras School was the first Egyptian field archaeological school to be founded.

The school’s founding comes within the Ministry of Antiquities’ framework to establish a number of Egyptian field schools in order to develop the skills of junior archaeologists in several domains, including excavation,

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


documentation, restoration and site management.

He pointed out that the ministry has established four similar training centers in Alexandria, Upper Egypt, Gîza and South-Sinai, and is scheduled to establish six more schools across the country.

The Kom al-Rasras field school began training students in January 2018 with a class of 16 archaeologists from Suhâg, Qinâ, Luxor and Aswân. (Nevine El-Aref, “2nd century Roman temple uncovered in Aswân”, Ahram Online, February 14, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte de vestiges d’un temple romain à Kom al-Rasras à Aswân », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 13 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Mise au jour de vestiges d’un temple romain à Kom al-Rasras à Aswân », Sada al-Balad, 13 février).

- -

Dimanche 18 février 2018

Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al-‘Inânî, a reçu l’ambassadrice de Belgique au Caire, S.E. Mme Sibille DE CARTIER D’YVES, afin de consolider les liens entre leurs deux pays. Ont assisté à cet entretien : le secrétaire général du CSA, Dr Mustafa Wazîrî ; et la présidente du département des musées, Ilhâm Salâh. L’entretien a porté sur les moyens de renforcer la coopération bilatérale dans les domaines archéologique et muséologique, l’échange d’expertises dans le domaine des fouilles archéologiques et de la restauration ainsi que la formation et l’entrainement des archéologues.

Le côté belge a sollicité la tenue dans un musée belge d’une exposition temporaire des

antiquités ptolémaïques. Le ministère égyptien de l’Archéologie examinera sérieusement cette demande qui doit obtenir l’aval du Comité des expositions et du Conseil d’administration. (Hiba ‘Âdil, « La Belgique sollicite la tenue d’une exposition des antiquités ptolémaïques », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 18 février 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie et l’ambassadrice de Belgique examinent le renforcement des relations bilatérales », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 18 février ; « La Belgique sollicite la tenue d’une exposition temporaire des antiquités ptolémaïques », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 18 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie examine la tenue d’une exposition archéologique égyptienne en Belgique », Sada al-Balad, 18 février).

- -

Mardi 20 février 2018

Head of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Shinichi KITAOKA has paid a visit to the Gîza Plateau, where he saw the Great Pyramid of Gîza and the boat of King Khufu, which an Egyptian-Japanese team is working to remove and restore from its original pit.

JICA has provided Egypt with two loans to enable the construction of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM).

Restoration work at King Khufu’s second boat.

Photos: Aymen Barayez

KITAOKA, who was accompanied by Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî, also toured the GEM, where he saw the King Ramses II colossus. He also attended a meeting of the GEM’s board of directors.

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


KITAOKA was also accompanied by Japanese Ambassador to Egypt Takehiro KAGAWA and GEM Supervisor Târiq Tawfîq.

Îsa Zaydân, director of restoration work on the second boat, told Ahram Online that KITAOKA expressed his happiness with the fruitful cooperation between the JICA and the Ministry of Antiquities.

KITAOKA also asserted that JICA will continue its support until the completion of restoration work on the second boat before its display at the GEM. The work is being carried out in collaboration with Higashi Nippon International University.

Tawfîq, KITAOKO, KAGAWA, and Zaydân with the restorers of the

boat in front of the Great Pyramid. Photo: Aymen Barayez

Mamdûh Taha, the head of the restoration project, said that 787 of the boat’s wooden beams have been lifted from the pit, while 1,264 are still inside. (Nevine El-Aref, “JICA head visits Gîza Plateau, Grand Egyptian Museum”, Ahram Online, February 20, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit le président de la JICA », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 20 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie accompagne le président de la JICA dans une inspection du GEM », Sada al-Balad, 20 février ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit le président de la JICA et la délégation qui l’accompagne », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 20 février).

- -

Le Comité permanent des antiquités islamiques et coptes a approuvé l’inscription sur la liste du patrimoine de la forteresse al-Yusrî. Le directeur général des antiquités d’Alexandrie et de la côte nord, Muhammad Mustafa, a indiqué que cette décision fait suite à un rapport scientifique déposé. (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Classement de la plus grande forteresse égyptienne », Sada al-Balad, 20 février 2018. Voir également Huda al-Sâ‘âtî, « Inscription de la forteresse al-Yusrî sur la liste du patrimoine », al-Shurûq, 21 février).

- -


The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) organised a photo and replicas exhibition of its treasured collection at the Opera Metro station in collaboration with the Metro company and Ministry of Transportation.

Ilhâm Salâh, head of the Museums Sector at the Ministry of Antiquities, told Ahram Online that the exhibition is a new initiative launched by the ministry to raise archaeological and art awareness among Egyptians, as well as encouraging them to visit the MIA.

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


She added that the initiative will be applied across all Metro stations in due course. (Nevine El-Aref, “Museum of Islamic Art to display replicas in Cairo’s Metro stations”, Ahram Online, February 21, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le musée d’Art islamique expose quelques répliques dans une station du métro », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 21 février ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le CSA expose des répliques archéologiques dans une station du métro », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 21 février ; Islâm ‘Abd al-Ma‘bûd, « Le musée d’Art islamique expose des répliques archéologiques dans une station du métro », al-Shurûq, 21 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le musée d’Art islamique expose des répliques archéologiques dans la station Opéra », Sada al-Balad, 21 février).

- -

Des scientifiques de l’University of Manchester sont parvenus à prouver le lien de parenté entre les deux célèbres momies égyptiennes appelées « les deux frères ». Ils ont ainsi mis fin à un casse-tête qui a embarrassé les archéologues depuis la découverte des deux momies, en 1907, par l’archéologue anglais Flinders PETRIE et ses collègues.

Les momies de Khnum-Nakht et Nakht-Ankh sont celles de deux frères de l’élite égyptienne, qui ont vécu pendant la XIIe dynastie. Les archéologues se sont longtemps demandés s’ils étaient vraiment des frères ou non, surtout qu’ils étaient enterrés dans le même tombeau, dans la région de Gabal al-Rifah, dans le gouvernorat d’Asyût en Haute-Égypte. Les inscriptions trouvées sur leurs sarcophages mentionnent qu’ils étaient les fils d’un gouverneur de la région et qu’ils avaient des mères différentes qui portaient le même nom, Khnum-Aa.

Après avoir trouvé les deux momies, PETRIE avait donné, en 1908, tout le contenu de la tombe au Manchester Museum. C’est la première égyptologue femme d’Angleterre, Marguerite MURRAY, qui y a analysé la morphologie et le squelette des momies. Ces analyses ont amené l’égyptologue à conclure que les deux momies n’étaient pas celles de frères, et à supposer que l’un des deux, Khnum-Nakht, était probablement un enfant adopté. Il a en outre été établi par des scientifiques que l’un des deux « frères » avait 20 ans de moins que l’autre.

En 2015, des scientifiques de l’Institut de biotechnologie de Manchester ont décidé de clore définitivement le débat en procédant à une analyse ADN. Ils ont, pour ce faire, prélevé des fragments de dents des momies qui n’avaient pas été affectées par des bactéries ou des traces d’ADN d’archéologues. Leurs analyses sont venues contredire celles de MURRAY et ont permis de confirmer que Khnum-Nakht et Nakht-Ankh étaient bel et bien deux frères issus de la même mère. Selon l’étude, ils présentent à peu près les mêmes petites mutations dans le génome mitochondrial.

« Le chemin a été long et épuisant, mais nous y sommes finalement arrivés », a déclaré Dr Constantina DRUSO, de l’École des sciences de la terre et de l’environnement de l’University of Manchester, dans un communiqué publié sur le site Internet de

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


l’université. Et d’ajouter : « Je suis très fière que nous ayons pu élucider une petite partie, mais une partie très importante, du grand mystère historique ».

Pour sa part, Campbell PRICE, curateur du département de l’Égypte et du Soudan au Manchester Museum, indique que l’University of Manchester et, en particulier, le Manchester Museum, ont une longue expérience pour ce qui est de l’analyse de restes humains d’anciens Égyptiens. « Nous construisons l’histoire. Et le fait de montrer la relation entre les deux hommes de cette façon pour la première fois, c’est quelque chose de vraiment fantastique », s’est réjoui PRICE.

Les scientifiques pensent que les deux frères avaient des pères différents, ce qui expliquerait les sérieuses discordances dans la structure des fragments individuels du chromosome Y, dont la structure n’a pas été entièrement reconstituée. Dr Salima IKRAM, professeure d’égyptologie à l’American University in Cairo et experte en momies, indique que l’analyse ADN effectuée à Manchester indique une solution logique quant à la relation entre les deux momies. « Cette étude semble très précise, et nous pouvons surtout adopter ses résultats en l’absence de preuve textuelle claire comme des inscriptions ou des gravures », commente IKRAM, qui ajoute que l’analyse ADN constitue une véritable révolution pour l’égyptologie, et qu’elle devrait permettre d’élucider de nombreux mystères autour de la civilisation égyptienne, en particulier en ce qui concerne les origines des Égyptiens, les migrations, la diffusion et l’évolution de maladies génétiques, ainsi que les relations familiales.

« Les analyses ADN peuvent nous amener à modifier des théories antérieures ou des faits historiques qui n’ont pas été avérés par une inscription ou une écriture ancienne jusqu’à présent », reprend IKRAM. Dans le même contexte, l’égyptologue Ahmad Sâlih salue les résultats des analyses effectuées à Manchester, qui s’inscrivent dans le cadre du projet de l’University of Manchester relatif à l’étude des momies égyptiennes, entamé en 1975. Il assure que l’analyse ADN des momies

comble de nombreuses lacunes dans l’histoire égyptienne et que la science moderne nous permet de mieux comprendre la civilisation égyptienne, toujours énigmatique à de nombreux égards.

La technique consistant à analyser l’ADN de momies a notamment été utilisée en Égypte lors du projet des momies royales en 2007. « C’est ce projet, une coopération entre le Conseil Suprême des Antiquités et la faculté de Médecine de Qasr al-‘Aynî, qui a confirmé que le roi Toutankhamon était le fils d’Akhénaton, le propriétaire de la tombe 35 dans la vallée des Rois à Louqsor », souligne Sâlih. L’égyptologue ajoute que la technique a considérablement évolué au cours des dernières années. Il espère ainsi qu’elle permettra de répondre à plusieurs questions non élucidées jusqu’à présent, comme l’identité d’une momie conservée au musée d’Atlanta depuis des années. Appartient-elle au roi Ramsès Ier, le fondateur de la XIXe dynastie, qui a gouverné l’Égypte pendant une courte période entre 1292 et 1290 av. J.-C. ?

Si l’équipe de l’University of Manchester a réussi à trancher la question de la relation entre les deux momies frères, il est certain qu’il reste encore beaucoup à découvrir grâce à la technologie moderne. (Dalia Farouq, « Le mystère des ‘deux frères’ élucidé », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 21 février 2018).

- -

Jeudi 22 février 2018

The site of ancient Heliopolis has been off the tourist map for years, but after a decade of closure for development the Matariyya Obelisk

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


Museum has been reopened as a new and fascinating archaeological and tourist destination.

The open-air Museum displays a 20.4-metre granite obelisk erected by the Middle Kingdom Pharaoh Senusert I, along with a collection 135 artefacts from different periods.

One of its highlights is a four-metre quartzite statue of Ramses II, along with other objects bearing the names of Amenhotep II, Thutmose IV and Amenhotep III. More obelisks have also been discovered, such as that of the Sixth-Dynasty Pharaoh Teti, two obelisks of Thutmose III, an obelisk of 19th-Dynasty Pharaoh Seti I, and two more obelisks now on display in London and Rome.

Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî said the development project for the museum had been initiated in August 2008 and completed in October 2010 in a bid to rescue and preserve the archaeological site. The idea had been to develop it into an open-air museum displaying artefacts from the ongoing excavation work at the ancient site of Heliopolis and highlighting the archaeological and historical values of the area.

King Senusert I

“The area had long suffered from high levels of subterranean water. Therefore, the first stage of the project raised the level of the ground in the open-air museum to prevent the deterioration of the objects and to ensure the preservation of the archaeological area,” al-‘Inânî said.

Wa’d Abû al-‘Ilâ, head of the projects sector at the ministry, said the garden that had originally been planted to enhance the area has been removed because the water needed was damaging the monuments.

“Each statue has been set on a base with full information about it given on nearby signs,” he said, adding that two octagonal and 20 square-shaped concrete blocks covered with red granite slabs and reached by stairs had been installed to be used as a platform for the objects on show.

Different paths had been set up inside the museum to highlight the visitor circuit, as well as descriptive labels on all the archaeological objects. A main entrance to the site had been opened and an iron fence built to enclose the museum and protect the archaeological site.

Sharîf ‘Abd al-Mun‘im, supervisor of site development at the ministry, said that the Cairo suburbs of Matariyya and ‘Ayn Shams were once the site of Egypt’s ancient capital Iunu, which was sub-divided into four main districts.

King Senusert I obelisk

The ancient city played a major role in the cultural and religious beliefs of the Pharaonic period, where the “Ennead of Heliopolis”, one of the earliest theories of creation, was born. The first university in the world was established in the city, where medicine, philosophy, astronomy, history and religion were among the main subjects of study.

Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî, head of the ancient Egyptian antiquities sector at the ministry, said that in Pharaonic times ancient Iunu (Heliopolis in Greek) was the centre of the sun cult, vying

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


with Memphis and Luxor as one of the three most important cities in the country.

Unfortunately, the site had been almost totally obliterated in modern times by urban expansion, he said. The situation had been partially remedied in 1950, when the then Antiquities Department commissioned a German firm to raise the obelisk on a base of about two metres.

Some effort was made to clear and develop the site, and lawns were planted to enhance the surroundings. Later, in the mid-1970s, further improvements were made to the area around the obelisk and the nearby Tree of the Virgin Mary.

Yet, the site as a whole remained largely inaccessible to tourists until the completion of a new bridge over the railway station separating Cairo from Matariyya.

Subsequent excavation in ‘Arab al-Hisn, part of ancient Heliopolis, has since uncovered a glimpse of a large temple complex with monuments dating back to the New Kingdom.

Among the most fascinating architectural elements still visible are the temples of Ramses II and Ramses IV, a chapel built by the latter’s son Nebmaatre, and a granite column of the Pharaoh Meneptah depicting him making offerings to various gods as well as figures of bound and humiliated enemies commemorating a victory over the Libyans.

In 1993, when the foundations were being dug for new construction near the granite obelisk, a cache of limestone statues, granite sarcophagi, and stelae was found. These came from the 26th-Dynasty Saite Period, and the style of decoration and their size suggested that they were either royal or belonged to high-ranking officials.

The monuments, once cleaned and restored, were put on temporary exhibition beside the obelisk.

Several other tombs and objects have been uncovered over the years at the site. The latest discovery came last year, when a torso and head of Psamtik I were found in an area of Matariyya called Sûq al-Khamîs. (Nevine El-

Aref, “Matariyya Museum reopens”, Al-Ahram Weekly, February 22, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure le musée de Matariyya », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 17 février ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Rahmân, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure les travaux de réaménagement du musée de Matariyya », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 17 février ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure le musée à ciel ouvert de Matariyya », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 17 février ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Inauguration du musée de Matariyya », Watanî, 17 février ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Inauguration du musée de Matariyya », al-Ahrâm, 18 février ; Doaa Elhami, « Rendez-vous avec les ancêtres », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 21 février).

- -

Approximately 3,800 foreign tourists and 1,200 Egyptians witnessed the alignment of the sun on King Ramses II’s statue at Abû Simbil temple, Aswân, a phenomenon that occurs twice a year, marking key dates in the pharaoh’s life. Ministers of tourism, antiquities, and culture, as well as Aswân Governor Magdî Higâzî witnessed the phenomenon.

The first alignment takes place each year on February 22, marking his assumption to the throne and the start of the summer and harvest seasons for ancient Egyptians, and the second on October 22, marking his birthday .

Husâm ‘Abbûd, director of the Abû Simbil antiquities area, said that the phenomenon began at 6:24 am and lasted for 20 minutes, during which the sun’s rays moved 60 meters inside the temple. (“3,800 tourists witness sun alignment at Abû Simbil”, Egypt Independent, February 22, 2018. Voir également Liliane

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


Nabîl, « Équinoxe sur la statue de Ramsès II », Watanî, 22 février).

- -

As treasures from the funerary collection of the ancient Egyptian boy king Tutankhamun prepared to set off on a touring exhibition of the United States this month, starting at the California Science Centre in Los Angeles, a campaign has been launched against the tour, raising fears that Tutankhamun’s curse may have spread to archaeology.

The Egyptian Antiquities Task Force, a Facebook group, this week launched a petition addressed to President ‘Abd al-Fattâh al-Sîsî asking for the exhibition to be halted on the grounds that it could constitute a threat to the artefacts involved. It was “a breach of the antiquities law” and was not worth the effort since the exhibition would have a “low income”, the group said.

Monica Hanna, a professor at the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport in Cairo who is leading the protest campaign, said that although she was not against exhibitions abroad, the Ministry of Antiquities needed to follow all the articles of the antiquities law before the approval of any touring exhibition.

Hanna described the “King Tut: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh” exhibition as a threat to the 166 objects scheduled to travel to Los Angeles, the first stop on its seven-year tour.

“The exhibition breaks the antiquities law because it has been organised with a private company and not an international museum or scientific institution as the law stipulates,” Hanna said. She said that the company concerned could also be considered a potential threat to the artefacts because it had organised the “Quest for Immortality” touring exhibition in the early 2000s when a dice from

a senet game, an ancient Egyptian board game, had been lost, leading to a law suit.

The objects scheduled to travel consisted of unique items from Tutankhamun’s collection such as his gold sarcophagus, she said. This was another contravention of the law, since it stipulates that travelling objects should be duplicates and not unique ones, she said.

From the economic point of view, Hanna said the exhibition was also a poor deal since it would bring in little revenue over seven years. “It is only $50 million, which means that the income would be $166 per day,” she said. “Is this enough, given the importance of the ancient Egyptian civilisation and antiquities,” she asked, adding that similar objects loaned from the Louvre Museum in Paris to the new Louvre in Abu Dhabi had been charged at €45 million.

“How can the Ministry of Antiquities allow 166 pieces from Tutankhamun’s collection to travel when the Grand Egyptian Museum [GEM] is about to open at the end of this year and in which the Tutankhamun collection will be a major part,” Hanna wondered.

In response, former minister of antiquities Zâhî Hawwâs said that “all these are unfounded claims” in an interview with Al-Ahram Weekly. He said that the exhibition did not break the antiquities law as the objects were not unique examples, as had been claimed. They were all duplicates, he said.

“The gold sarcophagus is not among the objects. The one that will travel is a gilded 40cm symbolic sarcophagus of the sort that has many duplicates in the Tutankhamun collection,” Hawwâs said. He added that the exhibition’s revenue would exceed $10 million in each country it visited.

The “Quest for Immortality” exhibition had been organised by a different company, he said.

Hawwâs described the exhibition as an important promotional campaign for Egypt and for Ancient Egyptian civilisation. It would feature in the international headlines and on street and other advertising, he said, helping

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


to drive home the message that Egypt was safe for foreign visitors.

Supervisor-General of the GEM Târiq Tawfîq told the Weekly that the exhibition would not affect the GEM display, as the objects concerned were all duplicates. The Tutankhamun collection contains 400 ushabti figurines of the same shape and size as those in the exhibition. If a dozen such figures travelled, this would not affect the GEM exhibition, he said, especially as the Tutankhamun collection contains some 5,200 pieces.

Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî told the Weekly that the exhibition did not contain any unique objects from the collection. It did not include Tutankhamun’s gold sarcophagus, mask, throne, shrine or Anubis statue, as had been claimed.

One iconic item in the exhibition is a Ka statue, a wooden guardian statue with gilded head dress and skirt, of which the collection has two, while the other items are ushabti figurines, head-rests, boxes and jewellery, he said.

“We will never be negligent about our heritage,” al-‘Inânî said, adding that half of the original list of requested items had been rejected by the ministry’s Foreign Exhibitions Committee, the official negotiator for travelling exhibitions under the antiquities law, for various reasons.

The ministry had followed all appropriate legal procedures, he said, and the objects had been approved by the committee, the Supreme Council of Antiquities, and the cabinet. The US Embassy had provided appropriate financial guarantees, and the collection had been insured for $800 million. It would be accompanied by an officer from the Tourist and Antiquities Police, a restorer and a curator, he said.

al-‘Inânî said that the revenue from the exhibition was estimated at $50 million for each country involved, and there would also be a percentage paid on the number of tickets and souvenirs sold. The ministry would benefit from 10 per cent of the value of the items

sold, as well as $1 for each visitor above 400,000, reaching $4 per visitor at 700,000 visitors.

According to the California Science Centre in Los Angeles Website, tickets for the Tutankhamun exhibition are selling out. “The revenues are from only one leg of the exhibition and the same policy will be applied for every stop,” al-‘Inânî told the Weekly.

The other legs include the Museum of Science and Industry at the Parc de la Villette in Paris, the Saatchi Museum in London, the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, the Sydney Museum in Australia, the National Museum in South Korea, the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, the Field Museum in Chicago, the Muri Art Centre in Tokyo and the Osaka Museum of Art.

Two other exhibitions abroad are also scheduled to open in March. The first is in Canada and concerns the Fatimid period in Egypt, organised with the Aga Khan Foundation, and the second is in Saint-Louis in the US and concerns “Egypt’s sunken treasures”.

Ilhâm Salâh, head of the Museums Sector at the ministry, told the Weekly that in collaboration with the ministries of higher education and communication and information technology, the Ministry of Antiquities would provide a printout of every object in the Tutankhamun exhibition.

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


The “King Tut: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh” exhibition will be inaugurated on 24 March and will run until January 2019.

California Science Centre President Jeff Rudolph said the exhibition would use multimedia displays to stimulate interest in the sciences related to archaeology. Visitors will also learn how the scientific analysis of the Pharaoh’s 3,000-year-old mummy had revealed new information about his health and lineage, as well as how cutting-edge archaeological tools were assisting in discovering tombs and analysing existing ones in ways never before imagined.

The exhibition will feature nine distinct experiential galleries and an array of 3D visuals, digital content, 360-degree theatrical manifestations, and custom soundscapes in an engaging audio-guided tour, Rudolph commented. (Nevine El-Aref, “The Tut controversy”, Al-Ahram Weekly, February 22, 2018. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Des archéologues en appellent au président al-Sîsî pour stopper l’exposition de Toutankhamon », Sada al-Balad, 16 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le superviseur du GEM : L’envoi à l’étranger de 166 pièces de la collection de Toutankhamon n’est pas illégal », Sada al-Balad, 16 février ; Bassâm Ramadân, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : L’exposition de Toutankhamon à Los Angeles n’a pas de but lucratif », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 17 février ; “Campaigners protest Tutankhamun world tour, calls it ‘catastrophe’”, Egypt Independent, February 17 ; Hayâm Nicolas, « Monica Hanna : Les pièces de Toutankhamon sont insuffisamment assurées », Watanî, 17 février ; Radwa Hâshim, « L’exposition de Toutankhamon soulève la polémique », al-Watan, 19 février ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Zâhî Hawwâs : Les opposants aux expositions égyptiennes à l’étranger manquent de patriotisme », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 19 février).

- -


In the middle of the desert, six kilometres south of Tûnâ al-Gabal archaeological site, Egyptian and international media gathered to witness the announcement of a new discovery.

Five showcases displaying the artefacts uncovered from burial sites in the cemetery were guarded by inspectors. Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî, who was on site, announced the discovery of a 26th Dynasty cemetery that consists of a large number of burial shafts.

The discovery was made out by an Egyptian mission led by Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), who started excavations at end of 2017.

“Excavation work is scheduled to last for five years in an attempt to uncover all the burials of the cemetery,” al-‘Inânî told Ahram Online. He explained that the discovery is still fresh, and many more are to come as excavation continues.

Wazîrî said that in the last three months the mission has discovered a group of tombs and burials that belong to priests of the ancient Egyptian god Thoth, the main deity of the 15th nome and its capital al-Ashmûnayn.

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


One the discovered tombs belong to a high priest of god Thoth, “Hersa-Essei”. The tomb houses 13 burials in which was found a large number of ushabti figurines carved in faience. A collection of 1,000 figurines are in a very good state of conservation while other statuettes were found broken in pieces.

“Restorers are now busy collecting all of the parts for restoration,” Wazîrî pointed out. He continued that four canopic jars made of alabaster with lids bearing the faces of the four sons of the god Horus were also unearthed. They are in a very good state of conservation and still contain the mummified inner organs of the deceased. The jars are decorated with hieroglyphic texts showing the name and titles of its respective owner.

The mummy of high-priest “Djehuty-Irdy-Es” was also found.

The mummy is decorated with a bronze collar depicting the god Nut stretching her wings to protect the deceased according to ancient Egyptian belief. It is also decorated with a collection of blue and red precious beads as well as bronze gilded sheets, two eyes carved in bronze and ornamented with ivory and crystal beads.

Four amulets of semi-precious stones were also found on the mummy. It is decorated with hieroglyphic texts, one of which is engraved with a phrase saying: "Happy New Year.”

The mission has also unearthed 40 limestone sarcophagi of different shapes and sizes, some of them with anthropoid lids

decorated with the names and different titles of their owners.

Another family tomb was uncovered in the cemetery, Wazîrî said. It houses a collection of gigantic sarcophagi of different shapes and sizes, ushabti figurines bearing the names of their owners who were priests of the gods during their time.

Other funerary collections showing the skills and art tastes of the ancient Egyptians were also found.

al-Gurayfa site was subject to an attempt at illegal excavation in 2002, a matter that led the SCA at the time to start comprehensive excavation work on site in 2002 and 2004 under the supervision of archaeologist Atta Makram.

In 2004, the site was declared an archaeological site under the guard of the SCA.

In 2017, excavation work resumed to uncover the part of the cemetery of the New Kingdom and Late Period.

The cemeteries of the Old Kingdom, First Intermediate Period and the Middle Kingdom were on the east bank of the Nile in al-Shaykh Sa‘d and Dayr al-Barshâ area.

F é v r i e r 2 0 1 8


The Ptolemaic period of the cemetery was on the west bank of the Nile at Tûnâ al-Gabal. (Nevine El-Aref, “26th Dynasty cemetery uncovered in Egypt’s Minyâ”, Ahram Online, February 24, 2018. Voir également Bassâm Ramadân, « Découverte de 8 tombes pharaoniques à Minyâ », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 24 février ; “Egypt announces large discovery of 26th Dynasty cemetery in Minyâ”, Egypt Independent, February 24 ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Les fouilles du ministère de l’Archéologie à Tûnâ al-Gabal se poursuivent 5 ans », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 24 février ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie annonce une nouvelle découverte archéologique dans une nécropole à Minyâ », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 24

février ; Rémon al-Râwî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie annonce une nouvelle découverte archéologique à Minyâ », Watanî, 24 février ; Ranâ Gawhar, « Mise au jour de 1 000 statuettes dans 8 tombes à Tûnâ al-Gabal », al-Ahrâm, 25 février ; Nasma Réda, « À Minyâ, une révélation de plus », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 28 février).

-

- -

-


III – MARS 2018

Jeudi 1er mars 2018

Fouad street

The fresh paint on dozens of newly refurbished historic buildings in Downtown Cairo not only gives a new lease of life to the city’s 19th-century centre, known as Khedival Cairo, but also allows the buildings themselves to gaze out in defiance of their eclectic surroundings in an assertion of the great power of dreams.

A stroll down the carefully planned boulevards of Khedival Cairo introduces the careful observer to an incredibly rich variety of architectural styles that conjure up stories of how a young Egyptian aristocrat, or “pasha”, growing up in 19th-century Egypt, was introduced to a plethora of creative ideas during his education in France. He dreamed of implementing them in his home city of Cairo, hoping to turn swampland plagued by floods (Cairo at the time) into a “Paris on the Nile”.

That ambitious young pasha was the khedive Ismâ‘îl who ascended the throne and became the ruler of Egypt in 1863. Downtown Cairo, the triangle situated between today’s Tahrîr Square, Bâb al-Hadîd and ‘Âbidîn Square, soon became the object of Ismâ‘îl’s passion. He wanted to turn it into “part of Europe”, something to amaze the prestigious guests who came from all over the world to attend the momentous inauguration of the Suez Canal in 1869.

Giving birth to this new and cosmopolitan city not only demanded a lavish spending spree on Ismâ‘îl’s part, but also attracted enthusiastic architects from all over the world, particularly France and Italy. These were given full rein to exercise their expertise and imagination in the urbanisation of the area, resulting in an astonishing mix of art deco, art nouveau, baroque and, a little later, neo-Islamic styles — an urban masterpiece attracting droves of affluent tenants and businesses from among Egypt’s cosmopolitan elite.

However, later as more modern suburban areas emerged many of the affluent tenants of Downtown Cairo decided to move out, with some deciding to turn their former flats into offices or business premises. “By the 1940s, Ismâ‘îliyya [the original name of the Downtown district] had become a business district, with only a minority of families, usually the less affluent, electing to stay on,” wrote Al-Ahram Weekly writer and chronicler of Egypt’s modern history Fayza Hassan.

The 1952 Revolution, and the subsequent exodus of Egypt’s foreign communities after 1956, dealt a blow to Cairo’s belle époque city-centre. “For almost half a century, it went into sleep mode, its activity diminished, its boutiques no longer attracting the elite, and its apartments taken over by professionals,” Hassan wrote. Many beautiful old edifices were turned into schools or government offices, and others suffered from serious negligence. It was during late president Anwar al-Sâdât’s Open Door economic policy in the 1970s that the area further plunged into a state of eclecticism and decay.

However, good ideas die hard, and today, more than 150 years later, there are new dreams of giving a facelift to the khedive Ismâ‘îl’s now-aging and somewhat wrinkled brainchild. Many have dreamed of restoring

M a r s 2 0 1 8


Downtown Cairo since at least the 1990s, but many such revival attempts have not exceeded a coat of paint. Who said cosmetic surgery would be easy, especially as the subject here are the 500 or so historic buildings making up the Downtown area and covering an area of around two million square metres?

al-Alfî street

GAINING MOMENTUM: This time there seems to be real political will to revive Downtown Cairo, and the passionate dreamers no longer stand alone, with state and non-state actors, the private sector and civil society all playing roles in the development drive.

A Cairo Heritage Development Committee (CHDC) was formed a year ago by a presidential decree of late 2016 with a mandate to examine strategies “for a better future for Downtown and Historic Cairo” and to draw up a comprehensive master plan that will balance the area’s historic preservation with its economic growth potential.

A mega-project to regenerate Khedival Cairo was first envisioned in 2009, but it did not get into gear until 2014 when stability was regained following the political and economic upheaval of the 25 January Revolution in 2011.

“Today, the CHDC is breathing tremendous life into the Downtown area,” insists CHDC Media Spokesman Târiq ‘Atiyya.

‘Atiyya has a Downtown office from where he runs Mantiqtî, a Downtown-Zamalek community magazine that advocates for the regeneration of the whole of central Cairo. He points to Mantiqtî’s two-page coverage of the planned Downtown development pinned onto

the wall beside his desk, as if demonstrating the profound changes that are taking place in the neighbourhood.

“There’s a lot going on out there, refurbishing historic buildings, turning streets into pedestrian areas, regulating traffic, new signage and lighting, paving sidewalks, renovating cinemas, refurbishing squares and flyovers, and the Corniche,” ‘Atiyya says. Thanks to the CHDC, he adds, the “political will for change is strong”, and efforts “are being integrated in perhaps an unprecedented way to correct previous faults”.

The man at the helm of the CHDC is former prime minister Ibrâhîm Mihlib, who had already shown deep interest in the Downtown area when he was in office, rebuilding dilapidated pavements, regulating traffic, removing street vendors, and re-zoning coffee-shops that had trespassed onto roadways.

CHDC members include the Cairo governor, the head of the Urban Planning Organisation, the head of the General Organisation for Urban Harmony, the CEO of the New Administrative Capital, where many government offices currently located in Downtown buildings will be relocated, Mahmûd ‘Abdallah, international expert in asset management, and Hishâm ‘Izz al-‘Arab, chairman of the CIB Bank and head of the Banking Association, who is responsible for financing plans.

“More and more people now realise we are sitting on a treasure, and more and more of them are thinking out ways to use it,” ‘Atiyya says. “Heritage is our strongest resource, and the fact that this concept has been embraced by the highest authorities of the state is a major leap forward.”

Under the development plans, the Downtown area is envisioned as a cultural and shopping hub, a tourist destination, and a venue for local people where “an abundance of offices and homes” stand “side by side with attractions and entertainment venues like hotels, restaurants, bars and museums,” according to ‘Atiyya. But the great potential of

M a r s 2 0 1 8


the neighbourhood also needs “a new kind of sophisticated outlook and investment strategy” if it is to be fully realised, he notes.

NEW LEASE OF LIFE: Following the 25 January Revolution, “the streets of Egypt witnessed an unprecedented occupation by all types of citizens. Particularly persistent was the occupation of street-vendors in the streets of the Downtown Cairo area,” said a 2016 Cairo University study entitled “The Urban Regeneration of Public Space: al-Alfî Street, Downtown Cairo”.

Public space then was claimed in its entirety as a public right, and sometimes street-vendors could be seen using traffic booths as fitting rooms, and sprawling cafés almost blocked passageways and bridges. The government had to step into the fray, seeking “an approach to upgrade sites in Downtown Cairo and to set new conditions for the use of public space”, the study said.

The current three-phase CHDC project aims to restore a total of 500 historic buildings, in addition to refurbishing main squares, thoroughfares and passageways at a total cost of LE450 million. The first and second phases of the project started with the removal of street-vendors, the better regulation of road traffic, repaving pavements and restoring 100 edifices and a number of squares at the cost of LE100 million.

al-Alfî and al-Bursa streets were pedestrianized and refurbished as pilot projects for a future more pedestrian-friendly neighbourhood centre. The third phase of the project, well underway, aims at restoring about 300 buildings and reclaiming six squares at the cost of LE350 million.

The Cairo governorate can only afford to pay for a fraction of the regeneration process — unofficial estimates put it at 10 per cent — and the government has thus been inviting state and non-state stakeholders, civil society and, just as importantly, local residents and shop-owners to take part.

“The government cannot do everything on its own,” Rihâm ‘Arrâm, general manager of the Cairo governorate’s General

Administration for Cairo Heritage Preservation, said. “There are no accurate figures for government spending on the plans, as these would need to include consultancy, training and expertise costs,” she noted, adding, “Most of the funding comes from Egyptian banks.”

Thanks to the generous contribution of the National Bank of Egypt, for instance, motorists will soon be able to relish a drive back into Egypt’s modern history as they take two of Cairo’s historic bridges, the Qasr al-Nîl Bridge and its sister al-Galâ’ flyover. The Misr Insurance Holding Company has refurbished some of the buildings it owns in the area, as have private companies and other banks.

“The national banks already channel two per cent of their revenues to community services, and now that there is a clear plan to preserve the Downtown area the banks are ready to throw their hats into the ring,” explained Haidi Shalabî, from the National Organisation for Urban Harmony.

Walking through Downtown Cairo, one cannot help but be awestruck by the efforts that are now being made to refurbish many ancient edifices. The refurbishment of the Khedival Buildings on ‘Imâd al-Dîn Street, for example, once home to the khedive Ismâ‘îl’s entourage and servants from ‘Âbidîn Palace, and of the nearby Halâwa apartment building exude an aura of grandeur. A taxi-ride allowed the present writer to feast her eyes on unique historic buildings that have already been restored in Tal‘at Harb, Tahrîr and ‘Âbidîn squares, as well as newly cleaned up streets like ‘Imâd al-Dîn, Qasr al-Nîl, al-Falakî and Bâb al-Lûq.

Shalabî said that the preservation is no longer restricted to façades. Experts have been carefully chosen to restore decorative ornamental schemes as well as the interiors of presently dilapidated buildings. Just as importantly, they have been asked to investigate the adaptive reuse of the historic edifices.

The refurbished 1903 Cosmopolitan Hotel, for instance, will now be reused as a three-star hotel, while the current restoration of

M a r s 2 0 1 8


Downtown’s landmark ice-cream shop Groppi’s is bound to attract nostalgic visitors from all over the world.

“Historic city-centres all over the world have two and three-star hotels to attract tourists, something we have been largely missing in Downtown Cairo,” Shalabî noted.

BALANCING INTERESTS: The private sector had been showing interest in the neighbourhood since 2008, when the government adopted its vision for Cairo 2050.

Al-Ismailia for Real Estate Investment was the first real-estate investment company to be concerned solely with Downtown Cairo, established in 2008 by a group of prominent Egyptian and Saudi Arabian investors and managed by BPE Partners (formerly Beltone Private Equity) with a capital of LE380 million.

Al-Ismailia has so far refurbished 22 signature buildings that it owns in central Cairo. However, although the contribution of the private sector has been a major driving force in the development drive, it has also been a source of anxiety.

A 2015 American University of Cairo thesis by Hajer Awatta entitled “Whose Downtown is it Anyway?” examines how the contributions of state and non-state stakeholders could affect the public interest. “Downtown Cairo is experiencing an urban transformation guided in part by neo-liberal globalisation, capitalist investment interests, and the emergence of an independent culture-arts scene,” Awatta wrote.

But, she said, “high private investment in the gentrification of deteriorated city-centres in other cities has resulted in negative socio-economic impacts for existing residents and small businesses as the demand for real estate increases and original tenants get pushed out.”

That kind of gentrification, “often exceeds the relocation of residences and can impact income-generation when low-income residents have to relocate to affordable residences over 30km away with public transportation systems that are often unreliable and expensive,” she added.

Lounging on a bench in the recently refurbished al-Alfî Street one lazy Saturday afternoon, researcher Bayyûmî Abû Gabal expressed similar worries. For him, Downtown Cairo is a haven and a source of inspiration, and it is one of few affordable venues for limited-income families. “The gentrification is beautiful, no doubt,” he said. “But the fact that the private sector is investing in the area makes us worry that it will be turned into a playground for the rich in the quest for profit.”

An equally sceptical Awatta speculated that the regeneration of historic city-centres could “create conflicts between local forces, as each have their own goals and desired vision… Theoretically, the state is the protector of the ‘public interest’; however, it is often difficult to define what that interest is,” she wrote.

Yet, this is what CHDC members say the committee has been doing over the past year, bringing together all state and non-state stakeholders, as well as community members, in a debate to envision an inclusive plan that balances the interests of all stakeholders and citizens. “A city-centre for all” is the vision that almost all those interviewed by the Weekly saw as the target of the plans.

“Those fears are totally unfounded,” ‘Arrâm said, adding that the public interest was being taken into ample consideration. “When we relocated the street-vendors, we provided an alternative market for them in Turgumân, for example. When we closed streets to traffic, we built underground garages, and so on,” she said.

Outside ‘Arrâm’s office is another case in point. The historical aura of the refurbished ‘Âbidîn Square is nicely tinged with the cheerful flavour of families picnicking in the public garden in the middle of the square. “As you see, urban regeneration never means stopping people from enjoying the place,” ‘Arrâm said with a smile of satisfaction.

But exactly how private businesses will invest in the area without affecting its demographic character remains an issue of concern. ‘Atiyya is not worried, however. “All city-centres worldwide should boast a variety

M a r s 2 0 1 8


of low-priced and expensive shops and cafés for everyone to enjoy,” he said.

“When we started we had a clear vision for the district, ‘A Downtown for All’ where everyone would have the chance to explore one of the most magnificent neighbourhoods in Cairo,” maintained Mushîra ‘Âdil, marketing director of Al-Ismailia for Real Estate. The company had conducted extensive research on the urban fabric of the neighbourhood so that “preserving it will also mean reserving Downtown’s identity,” ‘Âdil said.

Al-Ismailia also envisions re-attracting the “positive traffic of young people and entrepreneurs to live, work, shop and socialise” in the area, while also providing a wide range of free and variedly priced activities and events to revive its cultural buzz, according to ‘Âdil.

“Over the past two years, we have managed to renovate some of our buildings, and the restoration has included infrastructure, façade face-lifting, and the reuse of the buildings to suit contemporary needs,” ‘Âdil told the Weekly. “The Radio Cinema, the building at 22 ‘Abd al-Khâliq Tharwat Street, and the Kodak building are all good examples,” she said.

“New concepts are being designed for some of our iconic properties, such as the Old French consulate, which will be a co-working space, the Café Riche building, which will be serviced apartments, the Kodak building, which will be a food and beverage hub, and Champollion Street, which will be launched in a month’s time,” ‘Âdil added.

“It is good to mention here that the rehabilitation is happening in full accordance with green building standards,” she said.

BEATING CHALLENGES: However, it may remain a challenge to apply the same regeneration dynamics adopted by private businesses to many government-owned buildings or privately-owned residential blocks.

Many of these may have infrastructure problems, and many beautiful edifices have units that are already rented out, or have been

turned into warehouses or workshops. The government cannot always afford to compensate small businesses, and older tenants may not want to leave, even if they cannot afford to contribute to the restoration process.

How the government plans to deal with such challenges remains an open question. Will there be attempts to compensate small businesses or old tenants, forcing them to relocate?

“It’s too early to tell, as we are still studying the urban structure of the neighbourhood with the participation of the community,” ‘Arrâm said. “Time will tell, since the relocation of many government offices to the New Administrative Capital may lure some tenants to move out of convenience. Some may have to leave if new tenancy laws are drafted.”

Shalabî said the CHDC is studying ways of relocating warehouses or workshops that do not conform to the historic buildings, also in attempt to bring back the neighbourhood’s demographic balance. “Many Downtown inhabitants had to leave when these inappropriate businesses emerged in the first place, and now we are simply seeking ways to evict illegal practices and attract the inhabitants back. It is usually the inhabitants who are the ones that are keenest on preservation,” Shalabî explained.

‘Arrâm said that new legislation was urgently needed that would impose harsher penalties on violators, if the current preservation is to be sustained. “Many warehouses, for instance, returned shortly after having been evicted in the absence of penalties in the current law,” ‘Arrâm lamented. In the same vein, when the governorate replaces ugly billboards with smaller ones that conform to the style of the area, the owners of small businesses repost them in the belief that they will attract more clients. The law only fines them LE10 for the violation.

“It’s a cultural problem, and it will take time to raise awareness, as we have been doing through cultural events,” ‘Arrâm said.

M a r s 2 0 1 8


Greater community participation and awareness is an important lesson that the government seems to have learnt from its past experience of regeneration in the districts of al-Alfî and al-Bursa. al-Alfî was regenerated in 1997, but the renovations only included turning it into a pedestrian street, paving roads, and painting façade.

“The project had no clearly positive impact on the socio-economic level of the area, participation was absent, and stakeholders were left out of decision-making or involvement in the process,” wrote the Cairo University study. “Traffic restrictions were not appreciated, and people were not satisfied.”

The al-Bursa regeneration in 1999 made better headway, as it included the participation of the private sector and banks, and people were more satisfied with the outcome. However, both districts deteriorated over the years, partly due to the absence of sustainability plans, and particularly in the aftermath of the 25 January Revolution “when public space was invaded by all kinds of people, and almost entirely lost to the appropriation of street-vendors,” according to the Cairo University study.

“The regeneration project in al-Alfî Street was initiated in order to try to control a situation of chaotic trespassing… and regain the power of the state,” the study added.

“The al-Bursa district was closed for security reasons, and it deteriorated to become a home to illicit practices and drug abuse,” Shalabî maintained. “We had to regenerate the area in a way that makes it buzz with cultural activities in order to bring order to public space.”

Both areas have now been rehabilitated with the participation of the local community. al-Alfî is now a buzzing recreational centre, with the zoning of cafés taking place under the scrutiny of security cameras. “We have created a Tenants Association and fund for the Street and have hired a company in charge of rubbish-collection and security,” Shalabî added.

Coffee shop owners are contributing to the fund and “are now keen on keeping the street in order because they felt that their businesses picked up when the area was regenerated. The same thing applies to the al-Bursa district.”

Almost all those interviewed by the Weekly on al-Alfî Street expressed their satisfaction that it had dramatically improved, with buildings nicely painted and the street becoming much more friendly to pedestrians. Shop-owners also expressed their happiness, except for the fact that the government needed to prevent street elements from intruding on the privacy of visitors, they said.

The al-Bursa and al-Alfî areas are envisioned as pilot projects, but there is definitely no one-size solution that will fit all areas. Other areas may have problems of long-neglected buildings whose owners are seeking to demolish them and build towers on the rubble in order to make profits, risking the areas’ architectural identity, for example.

“More and more people only care about money,” lamented the elderly owner of one old-fashioned men’s wear shop on ‘Imâd al-Dîn Street. “Many historic buildings have already been left to deteriorate or been demolished. Refurbishing buildings will not restore the lost elegance of the people either. You can’t turn the clock back,” he said.

However, there are still those trying to work against the clock to save what is left of Egypt’s architectural legacy. The General Organisation for Urban Harmony has stepped into the fray, registering 750 buildings in Khedival Cairo as part of the 6,000 buildings it has registered nationwide.

“These buildings are now preserved by strict preservation guidelines backed by legal force,” Shalabî said.

Yet, as ‘Atiyya points out, “extracting the gold” from the old may need “a more sophisticated outlook” that will also retain the identity and demographic character of the neighbourhood. After all, “what we need is a Cairo on the Nile, not a version of Paris,” a passionate ‘Atiyya says, as we stroll through

M a r s 2 0 1 8


the streets replete with layers of history that give Downtown its unique character. (Gihan Shahine, “Saving Cairo on the Nile”, Al-Ahram Weekly, March 1st, 2018).

- -

Le président du département des antiquités islamiques et coptes, Dr Muhammad ‘Abd al-Latîf, et le vice-ministre des Waqfs, shaykh Khâlid Khidr, ont inauguré jeudi le mausolée Zayn al-‘Âbidîn, situé à Sayyida Zaynab. En mai 2017, ce monument fut victime d’un incendie.

Les travaux de restauration entrepris par le ministère de l’Archéologie ont consisté à : démontage, restauration puis remontage des éléments en bois, en marbre et en cuivre, nettoyage des marbres qui recouvrent les parois internes du mausolée, réparation des sols et du guéridon qui entoure le catafalque, nettoyage intégral de la coupole de l’intérieur comme de l’extérieur. (Samar al-Naggâr, « Inauguration du mausolée Zayn al-‘Âbidîn situé à Sayyida Zaynab », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 1er mars 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Découverte d’une frise lors des travaux de restauration du mausolée Zayn al-‘Âbidîn », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 1er mars ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « L’adjoint

du ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure le mausolée Zayn al-‘Âbidîn », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 1er mars ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie inaugure le mausolée Zayn al-‘Âbidîn à Sayyida Zaynab », Sada al-Balad, 1er mars).

- -

A display hall at the Matrûh Archaeological Museum

The Matrûh Archaeological Museum has opened its doors for visitors after being officially inaugurated today by Egyptian President ‘Abd al-Fattâh al-Sîsî.

The museum is part of a cooperation protocol signed between the Ministry of Antiquities and Marsa Matrûh governorate.

Matrûh governorate has offered part of its National Library to the ministry for the establishing of the archaeological museum, which relates the history of the governorate through all the artefacts discovered within its borders, head of the Museums Department at the Ministry of Antiquities Ilhâm Salâh told Ahram Online.

The project is entirely financed by Marsa Matrûh governorate.

The facade of the Matrûh Archaeological Museum

The museum consists of two levels and exhibits 1,000 artefacts excavated in Marsa Matrûh over the years. The exhibit aims to

M a r s 2 0 1 8


highlight the role Marsa Matrûh, the country’s northwest governorate, which borders Libya, has played along the span of Egyptian history, with a focus on its role as a hub for trade with neighbouring countries and as a border city.

Salâh said that the museum has a collection of objects selected from the storehouses of the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr, the Suez National Museum and the Alexandria National Museum, including statues of Kings Ramses II, Thutmosis IV, Tutankhamun and Shashanq. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egypt’s President Sîsî opens Matrûh Archaeological Museum”, Ahram Online, March 1st, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Après son inauguration par Sîsî, le musée archéologique de Matrûh s’apprête à accueillir ses visiteurs », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 1er mars ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le musée archéologique de Matrûh s’apprête à accueillir ses visiteurs », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 1er mars ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le musée de Matrûh commence à recevoir ses visiteurs », Sada al-Balad, 1er mars).

- -

Vendredi 2 mars 2018

This year’s Mediterranean Tourism Forum held in Malta to promote tourism in Mediterranean countries was inaugurated by Maltese President and patron of the Mediterranean Tourism Foundation Marie-Louise COLEIRO PRECA, as well as renowned Egyptian Egyptologist Zâhî Hawwâs and Egypt’s former tourism minister Hishâm Za‘zû‘.

Over 1,000 people with an interest in Mediterranean tourism from over 39 countries attended the inauguration ceremony to

discuss avenues for promoting tourism as a vehicle for peace and stability across the region.

Speakers from around the world got together to share their experience and knowledge with participants and accordingly inspire them to undertake sustainable tourism projects and initiatives.

PRECA, Hawwâs, Za‘zû‘ as well as other representatives

from Med-Countries

On the sidelines of the event, Hawwâs delivered a lecture discussing recent archaeological discoveries in Egypt and the greatness of the ancient Egyptian civilisation.

Hawwâs also called on all the conference attendees to visit Egypt and enjoy an unforgettable voyage exploring the country’s ancient civilisation. He also talked about the great pyramids of Gîza and how the ancient Egyptians built them.

The Mediterranean Tourism Foundation (MTF) – established by the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association in Malta in November 2013 – is a non-profit NGO aiming at increasing the potential for sustainable tourism growth across the Mediterranean region.

The MTF’s vision is inspired by the shared will of both public and private tourism sector stakeholders to revitalise efforts to transform the Mediterranean into an area of peace, cooperation and prosperity by investing and promoting sustainable tourism growth across the region. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egyptian Egyptologist Hawwâs, former tourism minister Za‘zû‘ inaugurate MTF in Malta”, Ahram Online, March 2, 2018).

- -

M a r s 2 0 1 8


The world’s oldest figurative tattoos have been discovered on two

Egyptian mummies by researchers at the British Museum in London (Photo: Trustees of the British Museum)

Researchers have discovered the oldest figurative tattoos in the world on the upper arms of two ancient Egyptian mummies, the British Museum said on Thursday.

A male mummy was found to have tattoos depicting a wild bull and a Barbary sheep on its upper arm, while a female has linear and S-shaped motifs on its upper arm and shoulder.

The artworks appeared as dark smudges in natural light but researchers at the British Museum and Oxford University’s Faculty of Oriental Studies found the tattoos in 2017 with infrared photography.

“It’s actually providing completely new insights into the use of tattooing,” Daniel ANTOINE, curator of physical anthropology at the British Museum, told Reuters.

“The location of these tattoos suggests they were designed to be highly visible on the upper arm and the shoulder,” he said, adding that the discoveries push back by 1,000 years evidence for tattooing in Africa.

The mummies were unearthed 100 years ago in the Egyptian town of Gabalayn, around 40 km south of modern-day Luxor. They date to 3351 to 3017 BC, which is the Predynastic period before Egypt was unified by the first Pharaoh.

Researchers said the female tattoos may have denoted status, bravery or magical knowledge, while the male’s were likely symbols of virility and strength.

Prior to the discovery, archaeologists believed tattooing in Egypt was only performed on women, as tattoos were only depicted on female figurines of the period.

The oldest surviving tattoos are geometric designs on a mummified corpse known as Otzi, who lived around 5,300 years ago and was discovered preserved in the Italian Alps in 1991.

The research, lead by Antoine and Oxford University’s Renee Friedman, was published in the Journal of Archaeological Science on March 1. (Reuters, “Tattoos discovered on Egyptian mummies after millennia under wraps”, Ahram Online, March 2, 2018. Voir également « Découverte du plus ancien tatouage au monde », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 1er mars ; Reuters, « Les anciens Égyptiens ont inventé le tatouage », Sada al-Balad, 1er mars ; “Oldest tattoo discovered on ancient Egyptian mummy”, Egypt Independent, March 2).

- -

Mardi 6 mars 2018

The screaming mummy

A team from the Egypt’s Mummies Conservation Project has finished restoring a group of seven mummies in the al-Muzawwaqa necropolis in Dâkhla oasis, completing the first phase of the project, Gharîb Sunbul, head of Ancient Egyptian restoration projects at the Ministry of Antiquities, told Ahram Online.

The restoration of al-Muzawwaqa necropolis mummies came within the framework of the project, which launched three years ago by the ministry to preserve and maintain all mummies stored in Egyptian storehouses.

Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî, head of the Ancient Egyptian Antiquities sector at the ministry, explains that the project started with the conservation of mummies in the Mustafa Kâmil

M a r s 2 0 1 8


gallery storehouses in Alexandria and at the Alexandria National Museum, as well as those in the Kom Ûshîm stores in Fayyûm.

According to Sunbul, the second phase of the project will begin shortly and will involve the restoration of several more mummies.

He explained that during the recently completed work, the team noted that two mummies have "screaming" faces, a term used to describe mummies with open mouths. The hands of a third mummy were bound with rope.

“This is not the typical form of mummification, but it indicates that those people were cursed by the god or the priests during their lifetime,” Sunbul said.

He continued that the project offers a great opportunity for restorers to learn more about the death and life of those mummified people. (Nevine El-Aref, “Seven mummies of al-Muzawwaqa necropolis restored as part of Ministry of Antiquities preservation initiative”, Ahram Online, March 6, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : Achèvement de la première phase de restauration des momies d’al-Muzawwaqa», al-Masrî al-Yawm, 6 mars ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie achève la restauration des momies d’al-Dâkhla après 3 ans de travaux », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 6 mars ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Achèvement de la première phase de restauration des momies de la nécropole al-Muzawwaqa », Sada al-Balad, 6 mars).

- -

Mercredi 7 mars 2018

La ville côtière de Marsa Matrûh, située à 288 kilomètres d’Alexandrie, à l’ouest de l’Égypte, assure sa place comme destination touristique de premier rang. Non seulement pour son sable blanc, son eau bleu turquoise et son climat modéré, mais aussi pour ses trésors culturels. En effet, le président ‘Abd al-Fattâh al-Sîsî vient d’y inaugurer le Musée national de Marsa Matrûh.

« Ce musée est le fruit d’une coopération entre le ministère des Antiquités et le gouvernorat de Matrûh, qui y a consacré près de 750 m2 sur deux étages dans le bâtiment de la bibliothèque publique. Les salles de la bibliothèque ont été aménagées pour répondre aux exigences de la muséologie de ce genre de musée régional. Le gouvernorat de Matrûh a aussi financé le projet tout entier, y compris les vitrines, le système d’éclairage, celui de drainage ainsi que le système de sécurité électronique, pour un coût de 3,5 millions de L.E. », explique Ilhâm Salâh, directrice du secteur des musées au ministère des Antiquités.

Plus de 1 000 pièces antiques inédites sont exposées dans les salles du musée, retraçant l’histoire de la ville de Matrûh et son importance au cours des siècles. Ces pièces ont, pour la plupart, été découvertes lors des travaux de fouilles qui ont eu lieu dans la région. Elles confirment l’importance accordée à cette ville dès l’époque pharaonique. En fait, de nombreux pharaons se sont intéressés à y construire des fortifications et des citadelles, afin d’assurer les frontières ouest de l’Égypte, à l’instar de la forteresse d’Umm al-Rakham, construite par Ramsès II, pour répondre aux problèmes croissants que posaient les Libyens au XIIIe siècle av. J.-C. Ainsi, le gouvernorat de Matrûh abrite douze forts construits par les anciens Égyptiens au cours des siècles pour protéger les frontières occidentales de leur pays.

« Les pièces exposées au Musée de Matrûh représentent aussi les dieux du désert et illustrent le rôle de Matrûh en tant que ville côtière, de même que l’importance de la

M a r s 2 0 1 8


pêche et du commerce et la relation de la ville avec ses voisins au cours des différentes époques ». Pour réunir la collection du Musée de Matrûh, le ministère a eu aussi recours à des pièces en provenance de dépôts d’autres musées égyptiens, tels que le Musée Égyptien et le Musée national de Suez.

« Parmi les pièces maîtresses qui accueillent le visiteur du musée, il y a la partie supérieure d’une statue colossale du roi Ramsès II, qui remonte à la XIXe dynastie et qui a été prise des dépôts du Musée national d’Alexandrie. Il y a aussi la statue d’un scribe qui date de l’époque moderne, provenant de la ville de Suez. De nombreuses plaques en pierre des rois Thoutmosis IV et Toutankhamon ont été prises du Musée égyptien du Caire », explique Hishâm al-Masrî, directeur du secteur du développement au ministère des Antiquités.

Notons que ce nouveau musée n’est pas l’unique dans le gouvernorat, puisqu’il y a aussi celui de ROMMEL, situé dans une grotte près de la ville de Marsa Matrûh. Il est dédié au maréchal allemand ROMMEL, qui avait choisi cette grotte pour en faire sa cachette lors de la Seconde Guerre mondiale, notamment pendant la bataille décisive d’al-‘Alamayn en octobre 1942. (Dalia Farouq, « Matrûh joint le culturel au balnéaire », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 7 mars 2018).

- -

Jeudi 8 mars 2018

In the al-Husayn quarter in Islamic Cairo, the historic Mosque and University of al-Azhar stands welcoming worshippers, students and visitors. The edifice, re-opened by President

‘Abd al-Fattâh al-Sîsî and Saudi Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salmân this week, has for the last three years been hiding under scaffolding, with workmen intent on polishing and strengthening its walls.

The restoration work was carried out under the patronage of King Salmân bin ‘Abd al-‘Azîz of Saudi Arabia with a grant from late king Abdullah, who ordered the initiative before his death with a view to restoring the historic al-Azhar Mosque and a number of its faculties as well as establishing an integrated residential area for students.

The mosque, like other Islamic monuments located in heavily populated areas in Cairo, was suffering from environmental factors including air pollution, a high subsoil water level, a high level of humidity, leakage from the al-madiaa (a fountain used for ritual ablution), out-of-date sewerage systems and the adverse effects of the 1992 earthquake.

The restoration work was carried out using the latest scientific methods, and every effort was made to ensure that all the original architectural features were retained.

The aim of the restoration was mainly to strengthen the foundations of the mosque and to protect them from any further damage, Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Azîz, director of the Historic Cairo Rehabilitation Project (HCRP), which supervised the work, told Al-Ahram Weekly.

This was achieved using a micro-pile system, which, he said, involved the installation of columns beneath the al-Azhar complex to reinforce its foundations. The walls were also reinforced, missing and decayed stones replaced, and masonry cleaned and desalinated.

The restoration also included cleaning and strengthening the building’s architectural

M a r s 2 0 1 8


designs, wooden ceilings, and mashrabiyya (lattice woodwork) windows, as well as its arcades, paintings, engravings and fine metal ornaments. The building’s mausoleums, five minarets and seven painted domes were restored and consolidated, and the work extended to the students’ residential area.

In the latter, the work involved the transformation and modernisation of the lighting systems, toilets, drainage, ventilation and sound systems, in accordance with the latest international standards and as used at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, while taking into account the historic nature of al-Azhar.

“All the steps were carried out under the supervision of the Ministry of Antiquities to document the restoration,” ‘Abd al-‘Azîz said, adding that the ministry had provided drawings and documents of the mosque’s restoration in 1998 and 2011 as references for the restoration team.

“The mosque now stands as proudly as it did in its heyday,” ‘Abd al-‘Azîz confirmed.

The prestigious Mosque-University of al-Azhar was built upon the orders of the Fatimid caliph al-Mu‘izz l-Dîn Allah by architect Gawhar al-Siqillî, who built the then Fatimid Empire’s new capital of al-Qâhira (the Triumphant), today the heart of Islamic Cairo. This soon became a place of opulent palaces, mosques, madrasas (schools) and sabîls (water fountains).

al-Azhar was named after the Prophet Muhammad’s daughter Fâtima al-Zahrâ’. It was the first Fatimid monument to be built in Egypt and was a meeting place for Shia students, becoming the focal point of a famous university.

The architectural style of the mosque shows the influence of the various dynasties and their characteristic contributions over subsequent centuries.

Today, al-Azhar, which covers an area of 12,000 square metres, is double its original size and shows various Islamic architectural styles, including in a succession of riwâqs (arcades), madrasas, mihrâbs (pulpits) and minarets. These were added to what was originally a courtyard surrounded by three arcades, of which the widest runs along the qibla (prayer niche) wall.

The mosque was renovated and expanded several times during the Fatimid era, but during the subsequent Ayyubid period it was neglected because it represented a Shia, and not a Sunni, regime. The Sunni Ayyubids introduced the Sunni doctrine to the mosque and its teaching of Islamic jurisprudence, even as al-Azhar continued to serve as a centre for Arabic language and education.

Muhammad ‘Abd al-Latîf, assistant to the minister of antiquities for Islamic antiquities, said that the Egyptian Mameluke regime, which ruled Egypt after the fall of the Ayyubids, had restored the mosque, especially during the reign of the Mameluke sultan Baybars.

A madrasa was built along the northwestern wall and a portion of the old wall removed to accommodate the new structure. Another madrasa was also provided neighbouring the first, as well as a new ablutions fountain for the main mosque, and prayer halls were constructed for al-Azhar’s schools and other annexes.

The Mameluke sultan Qunsûwa al-Ghûrî later built the two-headed minaret that is the tallest of all al-Azhar’s minarets and a superb example of Mameluke architecture.

M a r s 2 0 1 8


After the fall of the Mamelukes with the Ottoman invasion in 1517, the Ottoman rulers of Egypt created several waqfs (religious endowments) to fund the construction and upkeep of the al-Hanafiyya riwâq, the Turkish riwâq, the Suleimaniya riwâq, the al-Shâm riwâq and the Amyan prayer hall at al-Azhar.

The greatest extension of the mosque, said ‘Abd al-Latîf, began under the Mameluke emir ‘Abd al-Rahmân Katkhuda when a dome was constructed and the Bâb al-Muzayini (Barbers Gate), which now serves as the main entrance to the mosque, was built.

Renovations and repairs were also made under Muhammad ‘Alî Pasha in the early 19th century and his successors. Under the khedive ‘Abbâs Hilmî II in the late 19th century a new library was built, as well as the largest of the mosque’s riwâqs.

al-Azhar today remains a deeply influential institution in Egyptian society and is highly revered in the Sunni Muslim world as a symbol of Islamic learning and culture. (Nevine El-Aref, “The newly shining al-Azhar”, Al-Ahram Weekly, March 8, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le superviseur des restaurations d’al-Azhar : Nous avons préservé tous les aspects archéologiques de la mosquée », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 6 mars ; Nasma Réda, « al-Azhar brille de nouveau au Caire », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 14 mars).

- -

Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al-‘Inânî, a reçu ce matin trois nouveaux cadres fraîchement nommés. Il s’agit de :

1) Gîhân ‘Âtif, nommée directrice générale du musée Copte.

2) Du‘â’ Shibl, nommée directrice générale de la planification et du suivi.

3) Yâsir ‘Iffat, nommé directeur général de l’inspection.

Dr al-‘Inânî a présenté ses félicitations aux nouveaux cadres, ainsi que ses vœux de succès. (Hiba ‘Âdil, « al-‘Inânî reçoit des nouveaux cadres fraîchement nommés », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 8 mars 2018. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie

reçoit des nouveaux cadres », Sada al-Balad, 8 mars).

- -

At the Tell Basta Open-Air Museum in the al-Sharqiyya governorate stands a beautiful colossus of the Pharaoh Ramses II’s daughter Meritamun. This week, she welcomed visitors who had flocked to the site to witness the reopening of the museum after eight years of closure.

The museum is the second open-air site museum to be established in Egypt after the Imhotep Museum in Saqqâra. It is a one-storey building using a straightforward architectural style and is built in stone to suit the natural environment. It is surrounded by a large collection of ancient Egyptian remains that once formed the ancient city of the cat goddess Bastet.

The interior design of the museum is also straightforward, but it displays a very rich collection of 600 artefacts relating the history of Tell Basta and nearby Zaqâzîq. All the objects were unearthed from archaeological sites in the al-Sharqiyya governorate.

During the reopening ceremony, Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî announced that visits to the museum would be free this week to celebrate the museum’s long-awaited reopening and to encourage al-Sharqiyya

M a r s 2 0 1 8


inhabitants to visit the site, raising their cultural and archaeological awareness.

He said that the ministry had started the construction of the museum in 2006, but that work had stopped in 2010. At the end of 2017 the work had resumed and had now been completed to a budget of LE3.7 million. It includes the interior design of the museum showcasing the history of al-Sharqiyya and the excavation work that has been carried out within it. New lighting and security systems have been installed and new showcases made for the artefacts along with descriptive panels on the history of al-Sharqiyya.

Ilhâm Salâh, head of the Museums Sector at the ministry, told Al-Ahram Weekly that the objects on display had come from archaeological excavations in al-Sharqiyya. They include a collection of marble canopic jars, terracotta statuettes, clay pots of different shapes and sizes, domestic instruments, coins, statuettes, tombstones, offering tables and jewellery. One of the showcases is devoted to al-Sharqiyya’s main ancient Egyptian deity, the cat goddess Bastet.

The Tell Basta Museum also contains a collection of artefacts scattered across the site. In ancient times, it was situated on the Pelusiac and Tannic branches of the Nile, as it

was the capital of a major district. It was strategically a very important city, from which trading missions to Sinai to bring turquoise and copper departed as well as military campaigns to Asia. During the reign of the 22nd-Dynasty Pharaoh Osorkon II Tell Basta, or its ancient name Bubastis, gained an important political status.

When the ancient Greek historian HERODOTUS visited the site in the mid-fifth century BCE the city was still in its heyday, and he described its temples as “the largest, most costly and most pleasant to look at”. He gave a lively account of the annual festival at the site, believed to have been a large feast.

The ancient site was also visited by the scholars accompanying Napoleon’s expedition to Egypt in 1798, who described the Bastet Temple as the “glowing temple”. Pictures of the ancient capital were also made by British Egyptologist and traveller John Gardner WILKINSON, who visited Tell Basta in 1840.

Between 1887 and 1889, Swiss Egyptologist Henri Édouard NAVILLE carried out an archaeological survey at Tell Basta and traced the various layers of the main temple’s development and was able to confirm earlier descriptions of its size and magnificence. He recorded that the edifice was 180m long with a court built by Osorkon II, a festival gateway, and various other shrines.

Most of the structures, he noted, had been built in the 22nd-Dynasty architectural style, and some blocks in the structure bore the names of Fourth-Dynasty kings, attesting to its early development. NAVILLE unearthed fine pieces of statuary that were sent to the British Museum in London, as well as an enormous cat cemetery filled with thousands of mummified animals along with beautiful bronze statuettes of the sacred cat.

M a r s 2 0 1 8


SUBSEQUENT HISTORY: Tell Basta subsequently suffered the fate of many ancient Delta cities. Its great monuments were used as quarries and stripped of limestone for the construction of modern buildings, and, as attested by the number of chips that dot the landscape, for millstones.

In 1904 when the government started to establish a railway link between Cairo, Mansûra and Bilbays a large section of land to the west of Tell Basta was cut off. In 1906, it was said that workmen found two hoards of gold and silver and hid the treasure and divided it among themselves. By the time the news reached the then Egyptian Antiquities Service it was only able to recover part of the treasure, including a silver jug with a gold goat handle now in the Egyptian Museum.

Other treasures were also found, including a collection of coins that is now in the Egyptian Museum. Gold and silver objects found at the site date to the Saite Period and to the earlier reign of Ramses II.

In 1943, a military road to connect Port Said with Alexandria via Mît Ghamr was dug traversing the site. The once beautiful temple became a mass of broken papyrus bud columns, pillars and lintels. Blocks of stone with inscribed texts were impacted into the earth, and the area was systematically depleted for raw materials to make bricks for houses in the ever-expanding urban area surrounding it.

About 37 feddans of the archaeological site were handed over to the municipality of Zaqâzîq for agricultural development and to serve as the site of a drainage installation for a farm.

The late Egyptian archaeologist Labîb Habashî then excavated the site and found some statues and traces of a Roman temple, as well as a 20th Dynasty mound. He also uncovered a large block of limestone and a beautiful relief of the Old Kingdom ruler Pepi I with various deities.

This was a remarkable find, since little was known about Old or Middle Kingdom temples at the time apart from funerary monuments attached to royal burials. Various four-sided pillars were also found, some bearing vertical inscriptions and the cartouche of Pepi I. Studies confirmed that Tell Basta had been an important city as early as the Old Kingdom, and Pepi’s monument proved to be a soul, or ka, temple.

The ancient city of Bubastis provides an example of how an important ancient Egyptian Delta city was slowly and systematically destroyed in modern times until little remained amidst the expansion of neighbouring Zaqâzîq apart from miscellaneous architectural elements, broken stelae and statues.

The importance of the site cannot be underestimated, however. Excavations have revealed settlements dating to much earlier than hitherto were constructed, and the site was already an important settlement at the end of the Pre-Dynastic Period before the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt.

Bubastis later lost its importance or was destroyed during one of the recurring later invasions of the Delta. By the Roman period, it was no more than a small town, and when Bilbays about 20km to the south became an important town, stone was taken to build it from the remaining ruins of Bubastis. (Nevine El-Aref, “Cat goddess city reopens”, Al-Ahram Weekly, March 8, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le réaménagement du

M a r s 2 0 1 8


musée de Tell Basta a coûté 18 millions L.E. », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 28 février ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure le musée de Tell Basta », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 3 mars ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Dr Khâlid al-‘Inânî inaugure le musée de Tell Basta », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 3 mars ; Nevine El-Aref, “Tell Basta Museum inaugurated in Egypt’s Zaqâzîq”, Ahram Online, March 3 ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure le musée de Tell Basta en présence du gouverneur d’al-Sharqiyya », Sada al-Balad, 3 mars ; « Le ministre de l’Archéologie et le gouverneur d’al-Sharqiyya inaugurent le musée de Tell Basta », al-Fagr, 3 mars ; Nasma Réda, « Tell Basta retrouve son musée », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 7 mars).

- -

In celebration of International Women’s Day, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo is showcasing today three displays in its foyer highlighting the role of women in ancient Egypt.

Ilhâm Salâh, head of the Museums Department at the Ministry of Antiquities, explains that the first display is a collection of jewellery that was owned by Queen Keramama, the mother of 23rd dynasty King Osorkon III.

The collection was originally discovered in Tell al-Miqdâm (Leontopolis), and includes a necklace with the image of the deity Khnum, a cobra diadem, scarab bracelets, the Eye of Horus, as well as a necklace in the shape of a scorpion with a human head wearing a Hathor headdress.

The second display, which is on show at the third gallery on the museum’s ground floor, is a red quartzite head from a composite

statue of Queen Nefertiti, the wife of the 18th dynasty monotheistic King Akhenaten. The artefact was excavated by C. FISHER in 1916 in Mît Rahîna.

The third display is a limestone Greek-Roman statuette of a woman that was repatriated from France in 2017.

Museum curator Sabâh ‘Abd al-Râziq said that the activities of the day include a presentation on a large monitor at the entrance of the museum relaying the history of women in ancient Egypt and their role in various aspects of life, in addition to a free evening guided tour accompanied by museum curators. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egyptian Museum highlights role of ancient Egyptian women in celebration of International Women’s Day”, Ahram Online, March 8, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le Musée Égyptien expose 3 pièces qui illustrent le statut de la femme dans l’Égypte ancienne », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 8 mars ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « 3 pièces exposées pour la première fois au Musée Égyptien à l’occasion de la Journée internationale des femmes », Sada al-Balad, 8 mars).

- -


C’est une grande exposition multidimensionnelle retraçant l’historique du Canal de Suez durant 4 000 ans qu’organise l’Institut du Monde Arabe (IMA) à Paris du 26 mars jusqu’au 5 août. L’idée de la tenue de cette exposition remonte à 2015, lorsque l’ancien président français, François HOLLANDE, était venu assister à l’inauguration du nouveau tronçon du canal.

M a r s 2 0 1 8


« Le 5 août 2015, en assistant aux côtés des présidents des Républiques de France et d’Égypte à l’inauguration du dédoublement du Canal de Suez, je pensais que peu de pays ont, sur une aussi longue durée, pu étonner le monde par le gigantisme de leurs réalisations », avait alors souligné Jack LANG, président de l’IMA, dans son éditorial sur l’exposition intitulée « L’épopée du Canal de Suez, des pharaons au XXIe siècle ». Ainsi après son retour, LANG avait confié la mission à Claude MOLLARD et Gilles GAUTHIER, commissaire général et directeur scientifique de l’exposition.

Tous les deux devaient penser à une idée originale pour une manifestation culturelle sur le canal. Et d’ici a surgi l’idée de cette exposition qui ne relate pas une histoire française du canal, mais plutôt une histoire franco-égyptienne. « Cela nous a pris deux ans de travail. On a voulu traiter le canal de tous les côtés : du côté technique en montrant comment le canal a été creusé, du côté politique avec les enjeux et les relations étrangères de l’Égypte, aussi du côté culturel et urbaniste », a souligné Gilles GAUTHIER, directeur scientifique de l’exposition lors d’une conférence de presse organisée à cette occasion à l’Institut français d’Égypte.

Des pharaons à Ferdinand DE LESSEPS, du projet de BONAPARTE à la nationalisation sous Nâsir, cette saga de plus de 4 000 ans est mise en scène dans une exposition-événement réunissant les personnalités puissantes, les défis surhumains, les anecdotes, les temps forts qui ont ponctué l’histoire singulière de ce lieu symbolique, jonction entre trois continents : l’Asie, l’Afrique et l’Europe.

Suivant un principe cinématographique, l’exposition propose une entrée en matière directe au visiteur en le plongeant au cœur de l’inauguration du canal en 1869, puis lui fait remonter dans le temps en reprenant le développement historique de cette épopée. « L’exposition commence par l’inauguration du Canal de Suez en 1869 à travers les photos pour faire entrer le visiteur dans le cœur de l’inauguration, une illusion d’assister à l’événement. Ensuite, il y a un retour en arrière

en remontant aux premiers temps des tentatives de creusement, celui du pharaon Sésostris III », a expliqué Claude MOLLARD, commissaire général de l’exposition lors la conférence tenue à l’Institut français d’Égypte.

Ajoutant que l’exposition innove dans sa forme en donnant une grande importance aux photos, aux peintures et aux effets cinématographiques. « On raconte l’histoire non seulement à travers les historiens, mais aussi à travers les photographies et peintures comme celle d’Édouard RIOU invité par l’impératrice Eugénie pour assister à la cérémonie inaugurale. Il exécute L’Album de l’impératrice : Voyage pittoresque à travers l’isthme de Suez. Cet album rassemblait des aquarelles d’après nature retraçant et commentant l’inauguration du canal », a-t-il expliqué.

Objets archéologiques, maquettes, photographies, archives sonores et visuelles ponctuent le parcours de l’histoire de l’Égypte et celle du monde dans cette exposition, qui part des pharaons pour entraîner les visiteurs jusqu’aux tous derniers travaux contemporains d’extension et de dédoublement avec l’avenir du canal et la zone économique qui se développe à son alentour.

L’exposition présente aussi les œuvres antiques qui montrent l’importance du canal pour l’Égypte. « On montre, au cours de l’exposition, la stèle du roi de Perse, Darius Ier, du Musée de Suez sur laquelle est inscrit le recreusement du canal au Ve siècle. On montre comment l’Égypte était au cœur du monde antique », souligne GAUTHIER.

Le creusement du canal est évoqué dans l’exposition par les nombreuses archives de l’Association du souvenir de Ferdinand DE

LESSEPS et du Canal de Suez : sculptures, photographies, plans, gravures, peintures, dessins et autres. En fait, le visiteur peut, sur un très beau panorama mobile, traverser le canal comme on le faisait encore en 1920 sur la route des Indes et rêver au charme des voyages au long cours.

Au cours de l’exposition, le visiteur découvre aussi beaucoup de détails à l’exemple de celui de 1858 quand l’ingénieur

M a r s 2 0 1 8


français BARTHOIDE propose d’implanter à Suez la statue d’une femme avec à la main droite un flambeau, mais la statue n’a pas été réalisée à cause de son prix élevé, BARTHOIDE propose le même projet aux Américains, et aujourd’hui, la statue se trouve à New York, celle de la liberté. « La statue qui devait illuminer le canal illumine aujourd’hui le monde de New York : l’occasion pour montrer les relations entre l’Égypte et la France et l’Égypte et le monde », commente GAUTHIER.

Si l’inauguration du Canal de Suez prend une grande part de l’exposition, on a consacré aussi un vaste espace à sa nationalisation et la mise en pratique de cette décision avec les souvenirs qu’elle a suscités. « Si le premier temps fort de l’exposition est celui de l’inauguration de 1869, vient ensuite le deuxième temps fort : celui de la nationalisation du canal. C’est l’idée d’opposer le XIXe siècle au XXe dans l’histoire de l’Égypte. Deux grands moments qui ancrent l’exposition », souligne MOLLARD.

Entre 1975 et 2015, le canal est considérablement élargi, approfondi et modernisé. Il devient l’une des principales sources de devises pour l’Égypte qui, en 2014, se lance dans un nouveau projet, celui du dédoublement, ainsi que la création d’une vaste zone industrielle et d’urbanisation. Ainsi, le film n’oublie pas de parler de la période actuelle du canal comme moyen économique, et du développement qui se déroule autour.

C’est cette Égypte du futur que découvre alors le visiteur avant de pouvoir rêver à nouveau d’un grand voyage toujours possible, même si le décor en a changé, tel que le montrent les images filmées qui viennent clore l’exposition, parcourant aujourd’hui les 193 kilomètres de la mythique voie d’eau. L’inauguration de 1869 est commentée par le grand radio-reporteur Frédéric MITTERRAND, et le visiteur peut aussi faire une tournée audio guidée et commentée toujours par sa voix.

Les pièces en relation avec le creusement du canal et son histoire ont été prêtées de différents musées dont ceux de Turin et du Louvre. Au mois de septembre, l’exposition sera à Marseille. « On a discuté avec les

autorités égyptiennes pour que l’exposition soit tenue en Égypte en novembre 2019 au Musée national de la Civilisation égyptienne à Fustât », a conclu GAUTHIER. (Hala Fares, « À l’IMA, la fabuleuse histoire du Canal de Suez », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 14 mars 2018).

- -

Outer coffin of Sepi III

A temporary exhibition highlighting 120 years of archaeological excavations in Dayr al-Barshâ in Minyâ will open Thursday evening at the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr Square.

Under the title Life in Death: The Middle Kingdom at Dayr al-Barshâ, the exhibition will be officially inaugurated by Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî, Belgium Ambassador to Egypt Sibille DE CARTIER D’YVES and German Ambassador Julius Georg LOEW.

The exhibition is organized in collaboration with the Netherlands-Flemish Institute in Cairo, KU Leuven University in Belgium and Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz in Germany.

The event will be attended by the head of the Belgium-Germany Archaeological Mission, a number of ambassadors to Egypt from foreign counties, Egyptian members of parliament and top officials at the antiquities ministry.

Model of plowing scene

Ilhâm Salâh, Head of the Museums Sector at the ministry, told Ahram Online that the

M a r s 2 0 1 8


exhibition will be on display for 30 days and will showcase 70 artifacts from the discoveries at Dayr al-Barshâ, which were previously spread through the museum’s various galleries or concealed in its basement.

“The artefacts will for the first time be displayed together,” she pointed out, revealing that the objects include the distinguished funerary collection from the tomb of Sepi III.

Among Sepi III’s artefacts are the rectangular box coffins, inscribed with religious funerary texts, known as coffin texts, which helped the deceased to travel through the afterlife.

Also among the displayed items are wooden models found in the tomb, which often depicting activities from daily life such as making food and drink. The aim of such models was so that the deceased could enjoy these activities in eternity.

Trays found in the tombs of Sepi I, Sepi III and Nehri I will also be on display. These trays, Salâh said, are unique as they are made of painted cartonage, consisting of a layer of gypsum.

The individual offerings on these trays are also made of cartonage, painted in intricate detail, allowing for the easy identification of objects.

Anthropoid coffin of Sepi III

Sabâh ‘Abd al-Râziq, General-Director of the Egyptian Museum, said that the site at Dayr al-Barshâ is located 280 km south of Cairo and is best known as the burial place of the Middle Kingdom governors of al-Ashmûnayn (c. 2055-1650 BCE).

The governors built elaborately decorated tombs high on the North Hill of the Eastern Desert cliffs, while important officials were buried in tomb shafts in the vicinity of their lords.

The earliest excavations at Dayr al-Barshâ began in 1897 when the French Egyptologist Georges DARESSY began exploring the site on behalf of the Egyptian Antiquities Service. His most spectacular find was the intact burial chamber of Sepi III.

Canopic chest of Sepi III

The first Egyptian Egyptologist, Ahmad Kamâl, continued to work at Dayr al-Barshâ from 1900-1902. He excavated several of the elite shaft tombs on the North Hill, including those of Amenemhat and Nehri I.

During their expeditions, she explains, DARESSY and Kamâl discovered an impressive collection of exemplary Middle Kingdom funerary equipment, such as wooden tomb models and decorated coffins.

The majority of these objects are kept in the Egyptian Museum and many will be on display in this exhibit.

In 1915, American Egyptologist George Andrew REISNER excavated for two months at

M a r s 2 0 1 8


Dayr al-Barshâ. His most important discovery was the nearly intact tomb of governor Djehutinakht IV or V.

Since 2002 KU Leuven University has resumed excavations at this site, reinvestigating several of the areas where these prior excavations took place.

KU Leuven University has also collaborated with the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz since 2009 on excavations of five large tomb shafts in front of the tomb of governor Djehutihotep, most of the contents of which are now in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. (Nevine El-Aref, “Exhibition of artefacts from Dayr al-Barshâ to open Thursday at Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr”, Ahram Online, March 14, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « L’exposition sur Dayr al-Barshâ regroupe 70 pièces archéologiques », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 14 mars ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure une exposition temporaire au Musée Égyptien », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 14 mars ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « 70 pièces antiques retracent l’histoire de Dayr al-Barshâ au Musée Égyptien », Sada al-Balad, 15 mars ; “‘Life after Death’ exhibition to be held at Egyptian Museum”, Egypt Independent, March 17).

- -

C’est la seconde exposition en ce lieu féerique que présente le palais ‘Â’isha Fahmî sur les rives du Nil, à Zamalek. Ce palais, récemment restauré, a déjà accueilli une exposition issue des différents musées du Caire, avec les maîtres pionniers de la peinture égyptienne du début du XXe siècle. Nous assistons, actuellement et jusqu’au 12 avril 2018, à un événement non moins prestigieux, avec les tissus coptes et islamiques, issus du Musée de Guézira et exposés au public pour la première fois.

« Des pièces rares et uniques au monde », souligne le directeur Ihâb al-Labbân. Elles ont été choisies par un comité au plus haut niveau. al-Labbân ajoute : « Les pièces coptes sont exposées pour la première fois au niveau mondial, ainsi que cette pièce islamique d’Asie Mineure, un tapis de prière du XVIe

siècle qui a été restauré en 1990, sans jamais être exposé ».

Tapis indien en cachemire, XVIIIe et XIXe siècles.

Il est rare de visiter une exposition dont les trésors présentés épousent à ce point la beauté des lieux. Sur les murs de ce palais construit au début du siècle passé, les tissus semblent faire partie du décor ambiant. On a même l’impression que ces pièces d’art font partie intrinsèque des lieux. Un plaisir visuel qui s’ajoute à l’ambiance, qui nous fait vivre un moment de grâce, loin des bruits d’une ville qui, à l’extérieur, bouillonne tous azimuts.

L’amalgame de tissus coptes et islamiques, avec leur continuité qui ne peut échapper au regard, ainsi que leurs différences sont intéressants. Sur les deux étages du palais, les textiles de différentes périodes nous interpellent avec leurs couleurs fortes. Tout d’abord, des pièces coptes remontant au IVe siècle. Des tissus qui ont été conservés grâce à la sécheresse du climat d’Égypte. Il faut noter toutefois que de nombreuses pièces ont été retrouvées dans un état fragmenté, puisqu’elles avaient été découpées en petits morceaux pour être vendues séparément.

Différents motifs représentant l'art copte byzantin, VIe siècle.

M a r s 2 0 1 8


L’appellation copte a été lancée par les Grecs pour désigner tous les habitants d’Égypte quelle que soit leur religion. Toutefois, cette période remonte à l’époque romaine, jusqu’à la conquête arabe en 640. Les tissus retrouvés appartiennent au contenu des tombes, aux vêtements que portaient les défunts, mais il y a également des tissus d’autels, des textiles utilisés dans la liturgie et d’autres de la vie courante.

Les motifs sont souvent des personnages — cavaliers ou autres — et des animaux ou des végétaux, ainsi que des motifs géométriques. Les tisserands coptes puisaient leur inspiration dans un répertoire mythologique ou profane. Il est étonnant de retrouver certains prolongements de ces motifs dans les tissus islamiques. Parfois, les motifs sont fascinants et profondément touchants. Le visiteur est constamment émerveillé par ces parcelles de tissus, riches par leur histoire et qui avaient tous un usage dans la vie des gens de l’époque.

Différents motifs représentant l'art copte byzantin, VIe siècle.

Dans des villes comme Akhmîm ou Naqâda en Haute-Égypte, des associations telles que l’Association de Haute-Égypte ou Wissa Wassef ont essayé de renouer avec cet artisanat en créant des pièces de tissus artistiques dans le prolongement des motifs anciens. De même pour les tapis de l’époque islamique par exemple, dont la fabrication se prolonge encore de nos jours. Cependant, lorsqu’on regarde les pièces authentiques, premières à témoigner, un souffle sacré nous traverse inévitablement.

Tapis à accrocher copte byzantin, Ve siècle.

Pour ce qui est des textiles islamiques, qui ont, eux, été diversifiés dans les différents pays de l’islam, on peut contempler des tissus venant de Turquie, d’Égypte, d’Iran, de Syrie, du Maroc, d’Extrême-Orient ou encore d’Asie Mineure. Les couleurs vives des tapis aux dessins géométriques ou des nappes aux multiples variations sont autant de sources de bonheur et d’admiration. L’originalité des différentes cultures et la touche personnelle des artistes sont autant de témoignages sur la grandeur de l’art et des hommes qui, en tout temps, peuvent créer du beau pour donner un sens à leur vie. Les lettres calligraphiées que nous pouvons percevoir sur certains tapis de prière ou certaines nappes reflètent le besoin de transcender un monde éphémère pour dialoguer avec l’au-delà. (Soheir Fahmi, « Des textiles qui content le passé », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 14 mars 2018).

- -

Des photos de Qinâ, Louqsor, Aswân, des oasis de Khârga et de Dâkhla dans le désert Occidental, puis retour à Aswân. Une tournée des endroits connus pour leurs monuments de l’Égypte ancienne. C’est ce qu’offre l’exposition Les Sanctuaires de l’horizon sacré, organisée par Ahmad ‘Awad, doctorant de la section d’architecture de l’Université du Six-Octobre, au musée des antiquités de la Bibliotheca Alexandrina, à Alexandrie.

Ouverte jusqu’au 22 avril, elle se compose de 24 photos qui montrent les rayons du soleil perpendiculaires sur les sanctuaires de 9 temples des époques de l’Égypte ancienne et

M a r s 2 0 1 8


gréco-romaine. Ces temples sont Dandara, Dayr al-Baharî, Dayr al-Shalwît, Kalâbsha, Hibis, Qasr al-Ghwayta, Dayr al-Hagar et Edfou. « Cette exposition est organisée à l’occasion de la célébration de la perpendicularité des rayons du soleil par rapport au sanctuaire du temple d’Abû Simbil, bâti par le grand conquérant Ramsès II », explique al-Husayn ‘Abd al-Basîr, directeur du Musée de la Bibliotheca Alexandrina.

Pour lui, l’exposition montre au grand public, notamment aux Alexandrins, la grandeur et le développement sophistiqué de la civilisation égyptienne. En effet, elle explique le phénomène de la perpendicularité des rayons du soleil par rapport à certains sanctuaires à des moments précis. Celui-ci a occupé les archéologues, les astronomes et les architectes durant plusieurs décennies.

L’exposition illustre le phénomène de manière simple, à travers les photos et leurs légendes trilingues, en arabe, en anglais et en français. L’exposition est divisée en 5 sections. Chacune comprend plusieurs photos qui indiquent le trajet des rayons, depuis le seuil des temples, en passant par les différentes salles, pour tomber enfin perpendiculairement sur les statues ou les reliefs des sanctuaires de l’horizon saint.

« J’ai pris plus de trois ans pour accomplir ce travail. Les photos de l’exposition ont été sélectionnées avec précaution parmi 1 000 photos », explique le chercheur Ahmad ‘Awad. Les groupes de photos suivent l’ordre géographique des temples, du nord, en passant par le désert Occidental, jusqu’au sud. La tournée commence par le temple de Dandara, à Qinâ. « Les rayons du soleil levant éclairent le Mammisi tous les matins des 8 novembre et 4 février du calendrier grégorien », explique ‘Awad.

À travers 4 photos, le visiteur peut suivre le mouvement des rayons du soleil, depuis leur entrée dans le temple jusqu’à ce qu’ils tombent perpendiculairement sur la fausse porte qui mène vers l’au-delà. Cette dernière est surmontée d’une frise gravée de trois disques solaires et d’une rangée de cobras coiffés de disques solaires, qui sont illuminés

par le soleil levant. « Le 8 novembre et le 4 février correspondent aux fêtes de la divinité Hour et à sa naissance sacrée dans l’au-delà, ce qui correspond au Mammisi et à la fausse porte », souligne le chercheur ‘Awad.

Louqsor est la deuxième station de l’exposition. Là, le visiteur découvre deux temples dont les sanctuaires sont illuminés par la tombée perpendiculaire des rayons du soleil. Le premier est celui de Dayr al-Baharî, bâti par la reine Hatshepsout et dont le sanctuaire, orné du disque solaire ailé, est considéré comme « le protecteur du trône ». Le soleil jette ses rayons sur le temple et ceux-ci pénètrent dans le sanctuaire, afin d’illuminer le disque solaire ailé le 9 décembre, lors de l’apparition de la divinité Hour, et le 6 janvier, qui correspond à l’apparition de la divinité Hathor.

À Thèbes, le visiteur peut admirer les photos du temple romain Dayr al-Shalwît, qui se dresse à 4 km au sud de la cité de Hâbû. « L’exposition offre à ses visiteurs l’occasion de voir des temples peu connus en Haute-Égypte et qui se distinguent eux aussi par ce phénomène astronomique », déclare ‘Abd al-Basîr. Les photos décrivent l’illumination d’un relief représentatif des divinités solaires Montou-Râ et Amon-Râ, les 23 octobre et 19 février.

La tournée continue avec Gabal al-Silsila, à Aswân. Là, c’est plutôt la force du roi divinisé qui domine la scène. Le visiteur se retrouve devant une photo représentant la chapelle du roi Horemheb, qui était le chef de l’armée égyptienne pendant les règnes d’Akhenaton et de Toutankhamon. Le soleil éclaire une statue brisée du roi et de la divinité solaire Amon-Rê le 29 septembre et le 15 mars. « L’illumination à cet endroit indique la domination du roi divinisé, qui renaît ces deux jours », indique Awad.

Pour ce qui est des photos d’Aswân, elles offrent au visiteur des vues du temple de Kalâbsha, dédié à la divinité Hour et dont le sanctuaire est illuminé le 29 octobre et le 14 février. Les rayons illuminent le dieu solaire Mandoulis en forme de faucon, coiffé de la double couronne, qui, comme l’indique le

M a r s 2 0 1 8


chercheur, est l’une des formes nubiennes de la divinité Hour, et la divinité Isis, parée de la couronne solaire.

L’exposition consacre aussi une section au désert Occidental, dans le gouvernorat de la Nouvelle Vallée : deux temples dans l’oasis de Khârga, Hibis et Qasr al-Ghwayta, ainsi que le temple de Dayr al-Hagar, qui se situe dans l’oasis de Dâkhla. Dédié à la divinité solaire Amon-Rê, le sanctuaire du temple Hibis est orné d’une scène gravée représentant la divinité Amon-Rê, accompagnée de l’Ennéade d’Oun. La scène est illuminée le 7 avril, début du cortège de la Fête de la Vallée. Un deuxième éclairage se produit le 6 septembre, ce qui correspond aux festivités de l’Opet, l’une des plus somptueuses fêtes religieuses de la divinité solaire.

Toujours à Khârga, au temple Qasr al-Ghwayta, les rayons illuminent une plateforme de pierre, qui « pourrait avoir porté, à l’époque, le bateau d’Amon-Rê, qui était consacré à son culte » souligne ‘Awad. Les rayons du soleil sont ici perpendiculaires les 12 mars et 2 octobre, dates qui correspondent aux fêtes des divinités solaires Rê et Hour. Comme à Qasr al-Ghwayta, au temple de Dayr al-Hagar, qui se dresse à Dâkhla, les rayons illuminent une plateforme qui portait le bateau d’Amon-Rê, les 9 mars et 5 octobre. Mais par chance, « les parois du sanctuaire conservent encore les gravures de la divinité accompagnée d’un groupe de démiurges assis sur leurs trônes sacrés », reprend le chercheur. Ces jours correspondent aux fêtes de Hour.

De retour dans la Vallée du Nil, les dernières photos représentent le phénomène astronomique dans le sanctuaire du temple d’Idfû, à Aswân. C’est la région où Horus, symbole de la prospérité et de la bienséance, voire de la lumière, aurait vaincu Seth, symbole du mal et des ténèbres. Le sanctuaire du temple d’Horus est illuminé le 21 juin. Là, le pyramidion du naos, qui abritait une statue du dieu solaire Horus, le sommet de la barque sacrée d’Horus et la table d’offrandes sont illuminés par les rayons solaires de midi.

« La victoire exige la force et la puissance de la jeunesse, ce qui correspond à l’heure de l’ultime force du soleil, celle de midi », déclare le chercheur. L’exposition apprend au visiteur que le phénomène de la perpendicularité du soleil concerne des temples répartis dans les quatre coins de l’Égypte, y compris les régions les plus éloignées, comme le désert Occidental. Il apparaît d’autant plus clairement que le phénomène avait une importance religieuse pour les souverains comme pour le peuple. Aujourd’hui, il fascine toujours autant.

Nombreux sont ceux qui pensent que le phénomène de perpendicularité des rayons du soleil sur les sanctuaires des temples égyptiens à des moments précis de l’année est accidentel. Néanmoins, les astronomes, les archéologues et les architectes s’accordent pour dire qu’il s’agit d’un phénomène désiré, étudié et habilement réalisé par les ancêtres, et essaient de mieux le comprendre.

D’après les archéologues, la perpendicularité des rayons du soleil est connue dès l’Ancien Empire, précisément depuis la IIIe dynastie, comme illustrée par le complexe pyramidal du roi Djoser (2628-2609 av. J.-C.). Elle se produit dans tous les temples et sanctuaires égyptiens qui se dressent encore aux quatre coins de l’Égypte. « Les anciens Égyptiens considéraient leurs temples comme une sorte de lieu transitoire que traversent le disque solaire et ses divinités durant leur voyage de l’au-delà vers le monde apparent », affirme ‘Awad.

Lorsque les rayons du soleil tombent perpendiculairement sur les divinités solaires, leurs éclats génèrent vie et puissance pour répandre l’ordre dans l’univers. Le phénomène se produit uniquement pendant les jours de célébration des fêtes des divinités concernées. Tous les temples et sanctuaires égyptiens sont donc orientés en fonction du mouvement du soleil, soit sur la base de calculs astronomiques ou d’après la symbolique du culte de l’Égypte ancienne. Le phénomène de la perpendicularité des rayons du soleil sur les divinités solaires pendant les fêtes de ces dernières est donc un désir théologique, qui vise à assurer l’ordre, la stabilité et la

M a r s 2 0 1 8


prospérité de l’univers. (Doaa Elhami, « Éclats divin », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 14 mars 2018).

- -

Jeudi 15 mars 2018

Eleven centuries ago, the Fatimid Dynasty conquered Egypt in what was the first leg of the expansion of the Fatimid Empire from Sicily to Sind in Southwest Asia. From the time of its creation in Tunisia in 909 CE, the Fatimid Empire searched for a new capital that would be closer to Syria, Palestine, Arabia and the Mediterranean islands. It found it in Egypt.

The Fatimids claimed to be the descendants of the Prophet Muhammad from his daughter Fâtima al-Zahrâ’ and ‘Alî Ibn Abû Tâlib. They conquered Egypt in July 969 CE after only five months of fighting. Egypt fell to the Fatimid commander Gawhar al-Siqillî without much resistance as the former Ikhsidid Dynasty, then ruling the country, had been unable to put up a convincing defence.

The Egyptian population welcomed the Fatimids, seeing them as the descendants of the Prophet Muhammad and able to rid the country of the unpopular Ikhsidids.

On the orders of the Fatimid caliph al-Mu‘izz l-Dîn Allah, al-Siqillî built the empire’s

new capital, al-Qâhira (the Triumphant), today the heart of Islamic Cairo, which soon became a place of opulent palaces, mosques, madrasas (schools) and sabîls (fountains), and the prestigious Mosque-University of al-Azhar.

During their two centuries ruling Egypt, the Fatimids gave rise to an outstanding period of cultural development and exquisite arts, making it one of the most flourishing not only in Egypt’s history but also throughout the Islamic world.

To highlight this empire, which reached its summit in the 10th and 11th centuries CE and influenced life throughout the Mediterranean, Southern Europe, and the Near East, the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, Canada, has organised a “World of the Fatimids” exhibition, the first such exhibition in North America.

According to its website, the exhibition includes luminous ceramics, intricate carvings shaped from rock crystal, and artefacts decorated with Kufic calligraphy and embellished with vines and leaves. All bear witness to a remarkable dynasty that fostered the arts and the sciences, yet that is little known in North America.

“We know from accounts of the time that Fatimid art and architecture was glorious,” said Henry KIM, director of the Aga Khan Museum, in a press release. “Most of it has vanished over the ages, so in bringing together objects from many international collections, the exhibition offers a rare opportunity not only to admire Fatimid art, but also to understand what life would have been like in this lively, diverse, and tolerant society.”

M a r s 2 0 1 8


Through monumental architectural pieces as well as intimately scaled artwork, the exhibition conjures up a land of many faiths and explores life, both royal and everyday, in the capital the Fatimids founded. Drone videography of the site of the Fatimid court and its architectural remains, plus a film on Cairo’s Fatimid history; offer insight into what the city was like a millennium ago.

The Fatimids embraced the skills and knowledge of people from different places and faiths, welcoming them into court and city life. “This multi-faceted society in part accounts for the very diverse sources of inspiration that characterise Fatimid art,” said Assadullah Souren MELIKIAN-CHIRVANI, the curator of the exhibition.

Mustafa Amîn, head of Islamic and Coptic Antiquities at the Ministry of Antiquities in Cairo, told Al-Ahram Weekly that the Fatimid era was a very important period in Egypt’s history not only for its distinguished and awe-inspiring Islamic monuments, but also for the development of Kufic calligraphy from its simple form to its most flowery shapes.

The Fatimids also built the Mosque and University of al-Azhar, which has long had an enormous impact on the Islamic world and played a very important role in Egypt’s history. Because of the high value the Fatimids placed on intellectual and artistic activities, attracting talented people from all over the globe, Cairo became a flourishing centre for scholarship, learning and the arts.

The exhibition puts on show a collection of 87 pieces, among which are 37 from Egypt, while others come from international collections including the Musée du Louvre in Paris, the Benaki Museum in Athens, the

Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and collections from Italy, Germany and Denmark.

Ilhâm Salâh, head of the Museums Sector at the Ministry of Antiquities, told the Weekly that the artefacts had been carefully selected from the collection of the Museum of Islamic Art in the Bâb al-Khalq area of Cairo for the Toronto exhibition.

She said the ministry had taken all the necessary legal and administrative measures to ensure the safe transportation of the artefacts from Cairo to Canada, applying the latest techniques in packaging and transportation. An archaeologist and a conservator from the ministry had also accompanied the artefacts to monitor them on their long journey and inspect them on arrival, she said.

She added that the artefacts include a collection of clay pots, dishes with various foliage and animal decorations, and a wooden mihrâb (niche) decorated with a two-line inscription in Kufic script. There are also a number of marble tombstones, one reading “this is the tomb of Hamzah ibn Ali and his descendant the Imam Ali Ibn Abi Taleb,” referring to the cousin of the Prophet Muhammad.

Also among the artefacts are marble vases, copper lamps and chandeliers with Kufic script, and objects in rock crystal, ivory and ceramic.

Highlights include an eight-foot carved marble slab discovered buried on what is presumed to be the site of a Fatimid palace, along with a rock-crystal cosmetics vessel carved in the shape of a bird that would have held kohl. A lusterware bowl painted with a Coptic priest swinging a censer and a cross resembling an Egyptian ankh is also included in the exhibition.

The catalogue accompanying the exhibition includes essays by scholars on Fatimid patronage, literature, calligraphy, cultural influences, and global exchanges, as well as chapters on the Christian and Jewish communities in Fatimid Egypt and the history of the Ismaili branch of Islam. (Nevine El-Aref,

M a r s 2 0 1 8


“The Fatimids in Toronto”, Al-Ahram Weekly, March 15, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le monde des Fatimides : une exposition qui retrace 1 000 ans de l’histoire du Caire », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 13 mars ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Inauguration de l’exposition des antiquités islamiques au Canada », Sada al-Balad, 13 mars ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Le monde des Fatimides : une exposition qui retrace 1 000 ans de l’histoire du Caire », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 13 mars ; “Fatimid-era exhibition inaugurated in Canada”, Egypt Independent, March 14 ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « L’exposition sur les Fatimides éblouit les visiteurs à Toronto », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 21 mars ; Nasma Réda, « Le monde des Fatimides en exposition à Toronto », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 28 mars).

- -

Le secrétaire général du Conseil Suprême des Antiquités, Dr Mustafa Wazîrî, a révélé la disparition de plus de 380 000 L.E. des recettes de billetterie sur le site de Gîza. La Police du Tourisme et des Antiquités a été saisie de l’affaire. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Vol de 380 000 L.E. des recettes de Gîza », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 15 mars 2018).

- -

Two months after the relocation of the colossus of the Pharaoh Ramses II to its new permanent display space in the atrium of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), the column of his son Merneptah arrived safely on Saturday from Islamic Cairo to join his father.

The column was transported from the Salâh al-Dîn Citadel where it has been kept since 2008 for conservation and preservation.

The column was originally discovered in 1970 among other architectural elements from the ruins of Merneptah’s mortuary temple in the ancient city of Heliopolis, now the Cairo suburb of Matariyya, where it had suffered deterioration due to the high level of subsoil water.

The column, 5.6m tall and weighing 17 tons, is carved in red granite while the base is made of limestone. It is decorated with engravings showing the Pharaoh’s different titles and scenes commemorating his victory against Libyan tribes.

Scenes at the top of the historical text on the column show him wearing the red crown of ancient Egypt and offering incense and wine to the god Amun Re, who holds the ankh sign in one hand and a curved dagger in the other. He gives the dagger to the Pharaoh, saying “take the slander of all foreign lands.”

Wearing the blue crown, Merneptah offers incense to a worshipper, Anat, who holds the sign of the ankh in her left hand and presents him with his left hand to help suppress rebels. He also appears wearing the double crown with the royal prayer offering bread to the mother of the god Re-Horakhti, who encourages the Pharaoh to act against all foreign countries.

Director of first-aid restoration at the GEM Îsa Zaydân explained that great care had been taken before the column’s transportation and that it had been comprehensively studied to detect and consolidate weak points. It had taken eight hours to prepare the column for

M a r s 2 0 1 8


transportation and two hours for its journey to the GEM.

A wooden base padded with layers of foam was designed for the column, and it was tied with carefully tensioned rope to safeguard it during transportation. The Tourism and Antiquities Police accompanied it on its journey. Upon its arrival, it was examined and further restoration work was completed. (Nevine El-Aref, “Merneptah arrives at the GEM”, Al-Ahram Weekly, March 15, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le GEM réceptionne la colonne de Mérenptah », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 10 mars ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Rahmân, « La colonne de Mérenptah se dresse à côté du colosse de Ramsès II au GEM », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 10 mars ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « La colonne de Mérenptah arrive au GEM », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 10 mars ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « La colonne de Mérenptah arrive au GEM », al-Ahrâm, 11 mars ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Le GEM réceptionne la colonne de Mérenptah », Watanî, 11 mars ; “King Merneptah pillar arrives to permanent display at GEM”, Egypt Independent, March 12).

- -

The ancient Egyptian coffin seized earlier this week at Kuwait International Airport in the Gulf has created concerns among many Egyptians who wonder how it was smuggled out of Egypt without being found and confiscated by police at Cairo International Airport, reports Nevine El-Aref.

This question has not yet been answered, but according to one source that requested anonymity investigations are now taking place and those responsible should soon be announced.

The story of the coffin started earlier this week when the Kuwait authorities announced that officers working at the air cargo terminal at Kuwait International Airport had found a 186cm coffin professionally hidden inside a sofa during the scanning of a shipment of office furniture sent from Egypt.

The coffin was confiscated pending further investigation in compliance with the UNESCO Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property. Meanwhile, the Kuwait customs authorities reported the incident to the country’s National Council for Culture, Arts, and Literature (NCCAL) to determine the coffin’s origin and historical authenticity.

The NCCAL set up a committee led by Sultan Gâwîsh, director of museums and antiquities at the NCCAL, and including two

M a r s 2 0 1 8


Egyptian professors of ancient history and antiquities, al-Sayyid Mahfûz and Ahmad Sa‘îd, who work at Kuwait University, to inspect the condition of the coffin and report on its authenticity.

According to the committee’s report, seen by Al-Ahram Weekly, the seized object is an anthropoid coffin carved in wood in the ancient Egyptian Osirin shape, except that the hands on the coffin are not folded together in the usual way. The lid is painted without any hieroglyphic inscriptions. Most of the surface is covered with a layer of calcined dirt and petrified rat dung.

“It is a very unusual and strange object,” Mahfûz told the Weekly, wondering where the coffin had been kept before it was smuggled out of Egypt.

He said that the anthropoid lid of the coffin bears the facial features of a person with unprofessionally painted long hair decorated with a foliage bandana. The shoulders are decorated with the falcon deity Re-Horakhti, while the chest is covered with a large painted collar called a waskhet. The bottom of the coffin is not painted and is inexpertly carved and unfinished.

The style of the coffin’s lid is similar to those found from the end of the Ancient Egyptian era and the early Ptolemaic Period, but the level of craftsmanship is less. This type of coffin is similar to the Merit-Et-Es coffin at the Nelson Atkins Museum in Kansas City in the US and the Ged-Hur coffin in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

The thick layer of dirt covering the coffin’s surface had made it difficult for the committee to determine its authenticity, Mahfûz said. It had recommended that the object be returned to Egypt where scientific cleaning could be carried out in the laboratories of the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr Square or at the new Grand Egyptian Museum.

“The cleaning process requires special materials that are not available to the committee,” Mahfûz said, adding that after the cleaning specialists could take a sample from the coffin for radioactive carbon analysis in order to determine its authenticity.

Although the coffin is similar to those from the Late Pharaonic Period and early Ptolemaic era, he continued, the separation between the body and the base and the way the lid is carved in one piece appears anomalous and requires investigation.

Sha‘bân ‘Abd al-Gawwâd, director of the repatriated antiquities department at the Ministry of Antiquities in Cairo, said the ministry had contacted the Foreign Ministry to follow up on the incident and that the coffin would arrive soon in Egypt for further examination.

The Kuwaiti government had welcomed the cooperation of the Egyptian authorities, he said, adding that investigations were taking place to determine how the coffin had been smuggled out of the country. (Nevine El-Aref, “Coffin returns to Egypt”, Al-Ahram Weekly, March 15, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie contacte les douanes koweitiennes au sujet du sarcophage pharaonique volé », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 8 mars ; Bassâm Ramadân, « Le directeur général des antiquités restituées dévoile le sort du sarcophage volé au Koweït », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 10 mars ; Hishâm ‘Abd al-‘Azîz, « Le "sarcophage volant" appartient à un trafiquant », al-Ahrâm, 15 mars).

- -

M a r s 2 0 1 8


Samedi 17 mars 2018

A total of LE235 million has been allocated to renovate the historic Citadel of Qâytbây in Alexandria, nearly one year after Egypt’s Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities denied statements that the fortress might collapse due to its cavities being filled with seawater.

According to Governor Muhammad Sultân, the renovations will kick off in April and it will mainly focus on the stones on which the fort was built, Sultân said during the Alexandria Youth Forum at the Bibliotheca Alexandria.

The renovation comes after earlier assessments done by archaeological and geophysical experts in 2015. Archaeological expert ‘Abd al-Rahîm Rayhân warned against a potential catastrophe as the caves under the citadel have been filled with the sea water, especially under the main rock on which the citadel is based, which threatens its stability.

However, according to Mustafa Amîn, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, “The Qâytbây Castle is completely safe in terms of construction and architectural status,” adding that a comprehensive inspection of the castle’s main rock has been conducted, and it included a check-up on the castle’s bowl from the inside, using ground radar and laser diode.

According to the Ministry of Antiquities, the latest inspections took place July last year, after which the inspection team had agreed to continue monitoring the discovered cavities using radar, magnets and electrical sensors “to obtain a comprehensive assessment.”

“The effect of the waves on the main rock and techniques to repel them away from the castle will also be studied according to the results of the geophysical inspections,” the Antiquities ministry said in a statement.

The Citadel of Qâytbây is a defensive fortress built by Mamluk Sultan al-Ashraf Qâytbây, who ruled Egypt from 1468 to 1496. It is considered one of the most important defensive strongholds, not only in Egypt, but also along the Mediterranean Sea coast. (“LE235mn allocated to protect Qâytbây Citadel from rising sea water”, Egypt Independent, March 17, 2018).

- -

Dimanche 25 mars 2018

Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al-‘Inânî, a nommé Dr ‘Âtif Nagîb Hannâ — de confession copte — au poste de vice-président du département des antiquités islamiques et coptes. De son côté, Dr Nagîb a remercié le ministre pour cette initiative inédite. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie nomme Dr ‘Âtif Nagîb vice-président du département des antiquités islamiques », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 25 mars 2018. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « ‘Âtif Nagîb nommé vice-président du département des antiquités islamiques et coptes », Sada al-Balad, 25 mars).

- -

Lundi 26 mars 2018

Auction house Christie’s is set to be auctioning off 27 Ancient Egyptian artefacts in New York on April 18, their website shows, with some rare pieces on display that include a statue of Sekhem-ankh-Ptah, an ancient Egyptian high official who lived during the Old Kingdom period (2389-2255 B.C.), as well as masks of mummies from the Roman period.

Egypt Independent presents below 10 of the antiquities that will be showcased for a bid in New York at the Rockefeller Center next month.

M a r s 2 0 1 8


An Egyptian Granodiorite Sacred Bull (late period, 664-332 B.C.)

An Egyptian limestone statue of Sekhem-ankh-Ptah (Old Kingdom, 5th Dynasty, Circa 2389-2255 B.C) Estimate Price: USD $1,000,000 – USD $1,500,000

An Egyptian bronze bes (Late period, 664-332 B.C.) Estimate Price: USD $15,000 – USD $20,000

An Egyptian gilt cartonage mummy mask (Roman period, Circa 1st-2nd Century A.D.) Estimate Price: USD $20,000 – USD $30,000

An Egyptian painted wood mummy portrait of a woman (Roman period, Circa 150 A.D.) Estimate Price: USD $30,000 – USD $50,000

An Egyptian monumental red granite head of Pharaoh Nectanebo II (Late period, 30th Dynasty, reign of Nectanebo II, 360-343 B.C.) Estimate Price: USD $600,000 – USD $900,000

M a r s 2 0 1 8


An Egyptian mosaic glass inlay plaque with lily and palmette motif (Roman period, Circa 1st century A.D.) Estimate Price: USD $4,000 – USD $6,000

An Egyptian red glass royal head inlay (New Kingdom, Ramesside period, 19th-20th Dynasty, 1295-1069 B.C.) Estimate Price: USD $15,000 – USD $20,000

An Egyptian Granodiorite female head (Late new kingdom to third intermediate period, 19th-22nd Dynasty, 1307-712 B.C.) Estimate Price: USD $200,000 – USD $300,000

An Egyptian limestone relief fragment (Late old kingdom to middle kingdom, 6th-12th Dynasty, 2345-1773 B.C.) Estimated Price: USD $100,000 – USD $150,000. (“Christie’s to auction 27 Ancient Egyptian artefacts in New York”, Egypt Independent, March 26, 2018. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Saisie de pièces antiques mises en vente dans une salle d’enchères à Manhattan », Sada al-Balad, 27 mars).

- -

Mardi 27 mars 2018

Australian academics could help unlock mysteries around ancient Egypt after discovering that a 2,500-year old coffin might contain the remains of a prestigious mummy.

The University of Sydney acquired the coffin 150 years ago and a series of academics incorrectly classified it as empty.

Their error was only discovered by chance late last year when more recent academics

M a r s 2 0 1 8


removed the lid to the coffin and discovered the tattered remains of a mummy.

The discovery offers scientists an almost unique opportunity to test the cadaver.

“We can start asking some intimate questions that those bones will hold around pathology, about diet, about diseases, about the lifestyle of that person – how they lived and died,” said Jamie FRASER, senior curator at the Nicholson Museum at the University of Sydney.

Whole mummies are typically left intact, limiting their scientific benefits.

Adding to the potential rewards is the possibility that the remains are those of a distinguished woman of an age where little is known, FRASER said.

Hieroglyphs show the original occupant of the coffin was female-called Mer-Neith-it-es, who academics believe was a high priestess in 600 BC, the last time Egypt was ruled by native Egyptians.

“We know from the hieroglyphs that Mer-Neith-it-es worked in the Temple of Sekhmet, the lion-headed goddess,” FRASER said.

“There are some clues in hieroglyphs and the way the mummification has been done and the style of the coffin that tell us about how this Temple of Sekhmet may have worked.” (Reuters, “Once overlooked, 2,500-year old coffin may offer clues into ancient Egypt”, Egypt Independent, March 27, 2018. Voir également Basant Gamîl, « Découverte d’une momie égyptienne vieille de 2 500 ans dans un entrepôt à l’University of Sydney », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 27 mars ; Reuters, « Dans un sarcophage à l’University of Sydney », al-Ahrâm, 28 mars).

- -

The Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities, in cooperation with the Egyptian Foreign Ministry, succeeded in retrieving three antiquities that had been smuggled out of the country. The Egyptian Consulate in New York received the smuggled items in preparation for their return to Egypt.

Sha‘bân ‘Abd al-Gawwâd, the General Supervisor of the General Department of Retrieved Antiquities, said that these pieces are a head and two hands of a mummy that had been stolen from the Valley of the Kings in Luxor and smuggled out of the country in 1927. They were recently spotted on the list of an auction in Manhattan — US authorities suspended their sale and seized them.

‘Abd al-Gawwâd pointed out that after the seizure of these pieces, the US authorities contacted the Ministry of Antiquities in Egypt, which in turn contacted the Foreign Affairs Ministry to take all necessary measures for the recovery of the artifacts.

‘Abd al-Gawwâd thanked the Egyptian and US authorities who coordinated for the return of the smuggled pieces. (“Egyptian consulate in New York retrieves 3 smuggled artifacts”, Egypt Independent, March 27, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « L’Égypte récupère 3 pièces antiques volées aux États-Unis depuis 91 ans », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 27 mars ; Ahmad Mansûr, « L’Égypte récupère un fragment de

M a r s 2 0 1 8


momie volé depuis 91 ans », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 27 mars).

- -


New research suggests that Ancient Egyptian Pharaoh Tutankhamun, who inherited the throne when he was just nine-years-old during the 18th Dynasty, has fought in battle, according to the results of a scan on his leather armour – findings, which throw into doubt the old belief of Tutankhamun being a ‘sickly boy-king’.

Since the discovery of his chamber and body, the mystery of the cause of the young king’s death had not been clearly uncovered: Theories varied from him being killed or dying early due to Marfan Syndrome. Some attributed his death to septicaemia, while the latest study in 2010 argued that he died from malaria.

However, according to a recently-published study, all current theories on the pharaoh’s death created a false image of a feeble and sick king who died early due to genetically-inherited illness. But Lucy SKINNER, a scientist from the UK’s University of Northampton, announced new evidence challenging these theories.

SKINNER, an expert on Ancient Egyptian leather, along with a television documentary production team, re-created Tutankhamun’s cuirass skin armour using advanced-imaging techniques, and unveiled signs that the boy-king had fought in a battle.

The scientist used a Reflectance Transformation Imaging technique – a new method which merges several images of an object photographed under different lighting angles – and “revealed these never-before-seen features on the armour,” said SKINNER.

“It was possible to see abrasion along the edges of the leather scales, meaning that the armour had seen considerable use,” she revealed. “That suggests that Tutankhamun had worn it, and that perhaps he had even seen battle,” SKINNER said in the documentary entitled ‘Secrets of Tutankhamun Treasures’.

She added that if her discovery was true, it would be an “amazing revelation,” countering the prevailing ideas about Tutankhamun as a weak boy-king.

The 3,000-year-old leather shield was discovered during excavations at the burial site by famed British archaeologist Howard CARTER in 1922. It is believed that the cuirass was severely damaged after being removed from the original box after CARTER found Tut’s burial room.

In 2014, the BBC aired a documentary in which it used Computerized Tomography CT-scans of Tutankhamun’s mummified body to reveal that King Tut suffered a genetic-bone wasting disease and a club foot, which prevented him from walking unaided. (Hend El-Behary, “‘Amazing revelation’ suggests Tutankhamun may have fought in battle”, Egypt Independent, March 28, 2018. Voir également Basant Gamîl, « Selon une récente étude : Toutankhamon était un vaillant combattant et non un malade », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 28 mars).

- -

Appel d’urgence adressé au président de la République, avis officiel au procureur général et procès intenté auprès de la Cour administrative. Tous avaient le même but : stopper l’abus contre les antiquités égyptiennes. Un groupe d’intellectuels égyptiens a, en effet, formé une campagne communautaire de préservation du patrimoine après que le ministère des Antiquités eut annoncé qu’il avait autorisé l’envoi de

M a r s 2 0 1 8


quelques pièces de la collection du roi Toutankhamon aux États-Unis pour une tournée de plusieurs mois en 2018, et au-delà, à compter de ce mois de mars.

Bien que deux autres expositions commencent en même temps, l’une jusqu’en septembre 2018, également aux États-Unis, et l’autre jusqu’en juillet 2018, au Canada, c’est celle incluant la rare collection du jeune roi qui est la plus discutée. Discutée depuis le mois de décembre, l’affaire n’a réellement éclaté qu’en février, suite aux déclarations du ministre des Antiquités, Khâlid al-‘Inânî, relatives aux accords signés pour le déplacement des trésors égyptiens. Depuis, la polémique fait rage. « Les règles du débat restent respectées tant que la polémique demeure en faveur des antiquités et du patrimoine », a expliqué le ministre lors d’une conférence de presse qui a eu lieu samedi 17 mars. Il assure que son ministère a respecté la loi et toutes les procédures officielles avant la sortie de la moindre pièce antique.

En effet, la loi 117/1983 soumet à des conditions précises l’organisation d’expositions d’antiquités égyptiennes à l’étranger : seuls des organismes d’État ou relevant d’institutions internationales peuvent solliciter une exposition. « En violation de la loi, le ministre des Antiquités a dépassé ses autorités et a approuvé personnellement la sortie de ces trésors. C’est un crime contre les antiquités », s’était indigné Ragaï ‘Attiya, intellectuel et avocat, dans un long article publié dans le journal al-Watan au début du mois de mars. Le ministre a répondu qu’il avait respecté les règlements et la loi en discutant cette affaire depuis juin 2016 et via la publication des accords dans le Journal Officiel, après l’approbation par le Premier ministre, le Comité permanent des antiquités et le parlement.

« Nous avons pris une décision courageuse et nous l’avons prise conformément à la loi 117/1983. Le groupe judiciaire et technique du ministère a beaucoup modifié les articles du contrat, afin d’assurer les pièces antiques sortant et de réaliser le maximum de bénéfices pour l’Égypte », a-t-il dit.

Il a par ailleurs indiqué que l’organisateur de l’exposition sur Toutankhamon avait demandé des pièces uniques, telles le célèbre masque du roi et son sarcophage doré, ce que le Comité permanent avait refusé. Les objets en question ont été remplacés par des pièces existant en plusieurs exemplaires. « Ces négociations ont duré plus d’un an et notre premier objectif était la sécurité de nos trésors », a expliqué le ministre. Or, l’affaire est loin d’être réglée, surtout avec le procès intenté auprès de la Cour administrative.

Le groupe d’intellectuels est d’avis que le sort des expositions qui viennent de débuter sera le même que celui de l’exposition de Cléopâtre, organisée aux États-Unis en 2012, et qui avait été stoppée avant la fin, suite à un procès intenté auprès d’un tribunal américain.

« L’affaire est complètement différente », indique Ilhâm Salâh, chef du secteur des musées. « En 2012, le pays était instable politiquement et le ministère n’a pas pu se défendre, alors nous avons accepté la décision judiciaire. Mais cette fois-ci, nous avons tout étudié et pris toutes sortes de garanties relatives à la sécurité, et à la sûreté des pièces antiques », précise-t-elle.

Des craintes de destruction, de falsification des pièces ou encore de vol avaient conduit l’égyptologue Monica Hanna, à la tête du groupe d’intellectuels, à s’opposer au ministère concernant la sortie des antiquités, ce qui a conduit à son tour l’ancien ministre des Antiquités et l’actuel conseiller du ministre, Zâhî Hawwâs, à accuser Hanna, ainsi que tous les membres du groupe, d’ignorance. « Ils cherchent seulement à faire une propagande en parlant aux médias et sur les réseaux sociaux », indique-t-il.

« Le déplacement de ces trésors reflète la stabilité sécuritaire qui règne en Égypte et contribuera à attirer de plus en plus de touristes en Égypte pour les admirer dans leur contexte d’origine », a indiqué al-‘Inânî.

Il assure qu’un groupe de spécialistes de la faculté d’Ingénierie a créé un système de numérisation et de documentation très moderne, appliqué aux pièces antiques de Toutankhamon avant leur voyage. al-‘Inânî, qui

M a r s 2 0 1 8


prône une stratégie basée sur l’exploitation des sites historiques et des antiquités, surtout étant donné le manque de ressources financières de son ministère, examine actuellement une nouvelle demande d’exposition en Belgique, ainsi que deux autres dans des pays arabes, sans prendre en considération les accusations, convaincu que c’est le seul moyen de relancer le tourisme. « Le nom de l’Égypte figure actuellement dans tous les journaux et médias américains et canadiens grâce à ces trois expositions. Cette campagne publicitaire gratuite pour l’Égypte durera encore des mois jusqu’à la fin des expositions », assure-t-il.

En attendant la reprise touristique, Hawwâs prône, lui aussi, l’augmentation du nombre d’expositions à l’étranger. « Pourquoi garder Toutankhamon au Musée du Caire dans un coin sombre ? Toutankhamon peut rapporter de l’argent. En le prêtant à d’autres pays, on pourrait payer les salaires des employés du ministère facilement », estime-t-il.

Usâma al-Nahhâs, responsable des trésors engloutis d’Alexandrie, exposition qui a terminé il y a quelques mois sa tournée européenne pour s’installer actuellement aux États-Unis, tente, lui aussi, de calmer les esprits. « Les aspects relatifs à l’emballage ainsi qu’à l’assurance et au transport ont fait de grands progrès. Des avions et des cargos spéciaux et des compagnies spécialisées interviennent », explique-t-il, tout en assurant que la moindre faute coûtera cher à ces derniers.

Pour sa part, Ilhâm Salâh souligne l’importance de la présence d’un archéologue et conservateur du ministère, qui accompagne les pièces antiques pendant toute la durée de l’exposition. « Son rôle est de les surveiller lors de leur long voyage et de les inspecter à leur arrivée et pendant l’exposition », indique-t-elle, précisant qu’un comité de différentes personnes est chargé de poursuivre ce travail, notamment au retour des pièces antiques. (Nasma Réda, « Polémique autour des expositions d’antiquités à l’étranger », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 28 mars 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Tournée

internationale de Toutankhamon : entre les appréhensions des archéologues et la sérénité du ministère de l’Archéologie », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 2 mars ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Rahmân, « L’Égypte tire-t-elle profit des expositions envoyées à l’étranger ? », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 15 mars ; Husâm Zaydân, « Exposition de Toutankhamon aux États-Unis : les experts critiquent et le ministère réplique », al-Fagr, 25 mars).

- -

Du 25 mars au 25 septembre prochain, 250 objets d’antiquités découverts au cours des fouilles sous-marines menées à Alexandrie par l’archéologue français, Franck GODDIO, seront exposés au Saint Louis Art Museum (SLAM) dans le Missouri aux États-Unis, et ce, dans le cadre de l’exposition « Cités englouties : le monde magique de l’Égypte ». En outre, une quarantaine de pièces provenant du Musée maritime d’Alexandrie, du Musée égyptien du Caire, du Musée des antiquités de la Bibliotheca Alexandrina, du Musée national d’Alexandrie et du Musée gréco-romain d’Alexandrie y seront aussi exposées.

« Cette exposition est un message de paix adressé par l’Égypte au peuple américain. Elle

M a r s 2 0 1 8


reflète la force douce de l’Égypte et de sa civilisation millénaire », a déclaré le ministre des Antiquités, Khâlid al-‘Inânî, lors de son discours à la cérémonie inaugurale de l’exposition aux États-Unis. Il a invité les Américains à visiter l’Égypte pour voir d’autres trésors égyptiens. « Ces expositions sont un excellent outil de promotion du tourisme égyptien. Cette exposition en est la meilleure preuve. Depuis des semaines, les publicités de cette exposition, qui porte le nom de l’Égypte, sont affichées partout dans les rues du Missouri, sur les moyens de transport et dans les médias », lance le ministre.

Au SLAM, le visiteur peut voir trois statues colossales des dieux Isis et Sérapis, des stèles, des sarcophages, mais aussi des bijoux et des sphinx. En plus, il peut contempler la réplique d’une barque solaire fabriquée au sein des ateliers du département des répliques au ministère des Antiquités en Égypte, et offerte au SLAM.

Pour sa part, le directeur du SLAM, Brint BENJAMIN, a déclaré être fier que son musée organise une telle exposition qui « raconte aux Américains l’histoire de deux cités antiques, Thônis-Héracléion et Canope, qui ont été submergées par les eaux de la Méditerranée suite à un tremblement de terre ». Ces deux cités étaient pendant des siècles parmi les plus importantes villes commerciales. « Cette exposition offre un repas succulent aux citoyens américains en présentant quelques joyaux de la civilisation égyptienne. J’estime qu’elle attirera plus de 200 000 visiteurs, surtout que les 1 000 tickets du premier jour ont été vendus en quelques heures », se félicite BENJAMIN.

Selon le site du musée, l’exposition présentera aussi des photos sous-marines, des vidéos et des cartes qui expliquent aux visiteurs comment les villes de Thônis-Héracléion et de Canope ont évolué dans le temps et l’espace au cours des siècles. (Dalia Farouq, « Cités englouties, le monde magique de l’Égypte », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 28 mars 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Inauguration aux États-Unis de l’exposition sur les antiquités submergées », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 21 mars ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Inauguration au SLAM de l’exposition temporaire sur les antiquités submergées », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 22 mars ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Inauguration au SLAM de l’exposition sur les antiquités submergées », Watanî, 23 mars).

- -

Jeudi 29 mars 2018

Saint-Louis and the City of Angels were seized by Egyptomania this week when the “Sunken Cities: Egypt’s Lost World” and “Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh” exhibitions opened in the cities this week.

The Saint-Louis International Airport, streets, shops, buses and hotels were all plastered with posters of granite colossi of the goddess Isis, the Nile god Hapi, Ptolemaic royal figures and the head of Caesarion, Cleopatra’s son by Julius Caesar, half buried in the seabed, for the Egypt’s Lost World exhibition.

Others showed divers coming face-to-face with monuments beneath the waves decorating sections of the Saint Louis Art Museum (SLAM) façade, while a large 3D

M a r s 2 0 1 8


photograph of one of Napoleon’s sunken vessels dominated the main wall of the museum’s central courtyard and connecting the six grand galleries of the exhibition. Saint-Louis, it felt, had come under the spell of the Ancient Egyptian sunken treasures.

The exhibition displays 293 objects excavated from beneath the Mediterranean. It was inaugurated by Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî and SLAM Director Brent BENJAMIN in the presence of Egyptian MPs Usâma Haykal, head of the Culture, Antiquities and Media Committee, and Sahar Tal‘at Mustafa, head of the Tourism and Aviation Committee.

Enormous care had been taken in recreating the Alexandrian theme. The different galleries of the exhibition had been designed to resemble the sunken cities of Heracleion and Canopus in Abûqîr Bay, and all the galleries were painted light blue and dark sandy-red to reflect the colours of the sea and sand. Giant plasma screens showed films documenting the progress of marine archaeologists as they uncovered the mysteries of Alexandria’s ancient Eastern Harbour within the display theme.

A prologue and an epilogue provided information about the underwater missions of

the Institut Européen d’Archéologie Sous-Marine (IEASM) that discovered the treasures and the natural disasters that had led to the submergence of the area more than 1,000 years ago.

BENJAMIN had no doubt about the block-busting nature of the show in a city that already boasts one of the world’s finest collections of Egyptian antiquities. “The first exhibition of these Egyptian treasures is one of the cultural highlights of 2018. This exhibition will attract and enthral Saint-Louis inhabitants as well as their neighbours,” he told Al-Ahram Weekly, adding that he expected one million people to visit the exhibition during its six-month duration.

The museum has permitted only 200 visitors per hour in order to protect the monuments and provide people with a positive experience. “This week, for example, we succeeded in selling 1,000 tickets in only one day,” BENJAMIN said.

He described the exhibition as “very important for American audiences as it combines both archaeology and underwater aspects at one time. We grew up watching the TV specials of [French diver] Jacques COUSTEAU, and here they are combined together which makes the exhibition more compelling to Americans,” BENJAMIN told the Weekly.

He said the exhibition was a good opportunity for those who had not had the chance to visit Egypt, as it gave them an idea of Egypt’s great civilisation. It also encouraged others to visit Egypt. “As the minister said, these exhibitions are good ambassadors of Egypt,” BENJAMIN said.

M a r s 2 0 1 8


Frank GODDIO, head of the IEASM and leader of the underwater archaeological missions that recovered the artefacts, said the exhibition was an ideal opportunity to encourage people to visit Egypt and to explore its art and culture.

He told the Weekly that the aim of sending the exhibition to the United States was to open the new discoveries to the widest public and to encourage visitors from the United States. He explained that the interior design of the exhibition was totally different from earlier outings in Paris and London. It had a different sonography focusing more on museological techniques and history than on a spectacular ambience, he said.

The exhibition is divided thematically. Among the objects on show are three giant pink granite colossi featuring the Nile god Hapi, a statue of a Ptolemaic king, and an unidentified Egyptian queen dressed as Isis. There is a customs stelae from Heracleion with inscriptions in hieroglyphics and Greek, a black granite sphinx representing king Ptolemy XII, father of the more famous Cleopatra, a head of Serapis and the “Naos of the Decades”, a black granite shrine covered with figures and hieroglyphic texts relating to the ancient calendar.

Pots and pans, knives, forks, bottles and plates are exhibited alongside navigational instruments, cannons, swords and guns from Napoleon’s fleet, sunk by the British admiral NELSON during the naval Battle of Abûqîr off Alexandria in 1798. Golden rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets are also displayed.

This is the exhibition’s fourth leg after its premiere in Paris at the Institut du Monde Arabe, followed by the British Museum in

London, the Rietberg Museum in Zurich, and today in Saint-Louis to start its tour around the United States. It will then move to Boston and Denver in Colorado. The exhibition’s 293 underwater artefacts were carefully selected from the Bibliotheca Alexandrina Museum, and the Graeco-Roman Museum and the Maritime Museum in Alexandria, as well as the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

A bronze statuette of a Pharaoh discovered in the temple of Amun-Gereb in Thonis Heracleion is an undoubted masterpiece. It depicts a Pharaoh in a striding, confident pose wearing the blue crown and royal headdress of Ancient Egypt. His belt buckle is roughly inscribed with the Pharaoh’s name. “It is difficult to read, but it suggests that the statuette was probably an already ancient object when it was placed in the temple of Amun-Gereb as a symbol of dynastic continuity,” an exhibition curator told the Weekly.

Amun-Gereb was revered as the god who granted the Pharaohs the sacred right to rule, and masterpieces from several Egyptian museums, such as the Apis bull from the Serapeum in Alexandria, are also shown alongside magnificent recent finds from the sea.

One such piece is a stunning sculpture from Canopus representing the eldest daughter of Ptolemy I, founder of the Ptolemaic Dynasty, Arsinoe II. This Graeco-Macedonian queen became a goddess beloved to both the Egyptians and the Greeks after her death, and she is depicted in the statue as the embodiment of Aphrodite, the ancient Greek goddess of beauty.

M a r s 2 0 1 8


TUTANKHAMUN IN LOS ANGELES: The scene is different in the City of Angels, where the Tutankhamun fever is hitting the city. The facial features of the boy-king can be seen everywhere in the city centre, including in restaurants and residential buildings. The collection of the young Pharaoh is back, eight years after its last visit in 2005.

On the day of its opening, the California Science Center was transformed into an Ancient Egyptian necropolis, as Egyptian and American officials unveiled the long-heralded exhibition entitled “Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh”. The opening took attendees back in time to the early 20th century when the tomb was discovered, with strains of oriental music filling the air and waiters wearing appropriate costumes greeting visitors as they made their way to meet the boy-king.

Actors dressed as excavators strode through the crowds carrying equipment to reconstructed archaeological digs, while other characters including fictitious Egyptologists offered to interpret the names of guests in hieroglyphics. Women carrying parasols explained how they whiled away the hours as their husbands searched for Tutankhamun’s tomb.

Before entering the exhibition, visitors enter an immersive environment that begins with a four-minute introductory film on a 180-degree screen meant to transport them to the Valley of the Kings on the west bank of the Nile at Luxor where Tutankhamun’s tomb was discovered.

During the nine-gallery exhibition that follows, guests pass through the six gates of the underworld as they travel with the king on

his journey to eternity. Along the way, they encounter good-luck amulets, weapons meant to fight off demons, alabaster containers of oils that the Ancient Egyptians believed enabled him to see and hear in the underworld, and figurines of gods meant to guide and protect him.

New 3D scans of objects are animated on video screens on top of display cases, so viewers can zoom in and spin the objects onscreen for an interactive experience.

“There’s a lot more technology in this exhibition when it comes to being able to help tell the story. With these videos, visitors really get to see these objects in a way they have never seen them before,” John NORMAN, managing director for exhibitions of the IMG Company that organised the show, told the Weekly.

For the next nine months, the California Science Center will display 166 magnificent objects from the collection that has captivated American attention since its first tour there in the late 1960s. Dramatically laid out in nine galleries, it relates the story of one of the most interesting and perplexing kings in Ancient Egyptian history almost 3,300 years ago. Each section showcases the dazzling craftsmanship of ancient artisans that characterised the earlier Tutankhamun exhibition.

California Science Center President Jeff RUDOLPH said the exhibition used multimedia displays to stimulate interest in the sciences related to archaeology. Visitors also learn how the scientific analysis of the Pharaoh’s 3,000-year-old mummy had revealed new information about his health and lineage, as well as how cutting-edge archaeological tools were assisting in discovering tombs and analysing existing ones in ways never before imagined, he said.

The last galleries in the show focus on the discovery of the tomb itself and the history of Egyptian archaeology, along with new scientific analysis of the mummy. This is provided through a video table in the exhibition showing scan data of Tutankhamun’s mummy. The scan is from 2005, but advances in technology have made

M a r s 2 0 1 8


it possible to glean more information about it, including that Tutankhamun had a clubfoot and an impacted wisdom tooth.

New DNA testing shows that the young Pharaoh also suffered from malaria and had a badly broken left leg above the knee that pierced his skin. This likely resulted in the infection that caused his death.

The exhibition also takes visitors through the afterlife, visualising it through objects from Tutankhamun’s tomb. It combines technology, music and animation in novel ways. “We have used a lot of technology in the exhibition,” NORMAN asserted, describing it as “a very theatrical experience”. He said that each gallery space had its own music to ground viewers in Ancient Egypt and provide context for the exhibition.

Usâma Haykal, head of the Culture, Antiquities and Media Committee in the Egyptian parliament, praised the exhibition design and displays, leading him to describe it as “efficient and spectacular”.

“The exhibition is very well designed, with a special lighting system that shows the importance of the objects as well as their skilful craftsmanship,” Haykal said, wishing that Egyptian curators could gain more experience in the field.

Sahar Tal‘at Mustafa, head of the Tourism and Aviation Committee, said that the centre had sold more than 100,000 tickets, mostly through word of mouth. Tutankhamun may be making some pop-up appearances around Los Angeles, she said, adding that according to the centre director, all the 3,500 tickets available for the first day had been sold. The centre had had to extend its official opening hours for more than three hours, she said.

The most important artefacts on show include a 40cm gold coffin, the gold diadem from Tutankhamun’s mummy, a gold fan featuring an ostrich hunt, a small gold canopic coffin ornamented with faience, a silver trumpet used for religious ceremonies, a gilded wooden statuette depicting the king riding a black varnished leopard, four marble canopic jars, and a gilded wooden jackal-

headed figurine with the god Duamutef on the base.

There is a wooden travelling chest with gilded knobs inlaid with ebony and ivory, gold finger rings with images of the god Amun-Re on a cartouche-shaped bezel, a marble game board, and tapestry woven linen gloves.

Curator ‘Abd al-Ghaffâr Wagdî, who is accompanying the exhibition, said it was protected by a state-of-the-art security system installed in the galleries and inside every showcase. This was connected to an alarm system that rings if any unusual behaviour occurs, he said.

He said that the Ministry of Antiquities had full supervision not only over the artefacts, but also over the number of visitors per hour. It monitored visitor attitudes and the level of humidity inside the galleries and the showcases during the exhibition. “No one can remove, rearrange or change the display of any object unless with my permission,” Wagdî said.

He added that every object had its own printed ticket and every showcase had its own serial code on its surface. If for any reason a showcase had to be opened, this could only be done in the presence of security guards. “The exhibition features the finest treasures of Ancient Egypt and offers visitors the experience of a world of artefacts they might otherwise never see,” he said.

“People of all ages have an enduring fascination for Tutankhamun. And now a new generation will discover the wonders of the Pharaoh,” al-‘Inânî said in his speech opening the exhibition. He said there was a love story between America and Tutankhamun that had started in 1961 when some of his collection made its world premiere tour to the United States.

“The exhibition arrives in Los Angeles for the fourth time as a message of peace from the Egyptians to the Americans to show how the Ancient Egyptians built their own great civilisation with passion, faith, love, knowledge and art,” al-‘Inânî said. He said that the exhibition came as part of the policy of the

M a r s 2 0 1 8


Ministry of Antiquities to resume sending temporary exhibitions abroad. Three temporary exhibitions were officially opened this month: the World of the Fatimids in Toronto, the Sunken Cities in Saint-Louis, and Tutankhamun in Los Angeles, he said.

“These exhibitions allow humanity to admire our treasures and encourage visitors to come to see the fascinating monuments in their original context in Egypt,” he said. He invited the American audiences to come to Egypt to admire its wonderful monuments and to explore the 5,000 objects in the Tutankhamun collection that will be on display at the Grand Egyptian Museum in less than a year.

Los Angeles mayor Eric GARCETTI highlighted the friendship between Egypt and Los Angeles in his speech at the exhibition. He said a sister-ship agreement between Cairo and Los Angeles had been underway, but had been stopped in 2011. He now expected it to continue.

Egypt’s Minister of Tourism Rânyâ al-Mashat said the exhibition would raise the number of Americans visiting Egypt, as it did in 2005. “After this splendid inauguration, we are expecting to receive more American visitors in Egypt this year, as cultural tourism is one of the most important elements of Egypt’s tourist policy,” she said.

Egyptologist Zâhî Hawwâs said the treasures on show were among the world’s greatest cultural legacies. The Tutankhamun exhibition, which toured the world in the 1970s gave birth to the trend for blockbuster exhibitions, he said, its tour of seven US cities from 1976 to 1979 attracting more than eight million visitors. This time organisers expect an even greater number that will break previous attendance records. (Nevine El-Aref, “Under the spell of Egypt”, Al-Ahram Weekly, March 29, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « L’exposition sur les Fatimides dégèle l’atmosphère au Canada », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 21 mars ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Les ministères de l’Archéologie et du Tourisme inaugurent l’exposition de Toutankhamon à Los Angeles », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 25 mars ; ‘Alâ’ al-

Minyâwî, « Campagne médiatique internationale pour l’inauguration de l’exposition sur Toutankhamon », Sada al-Balad, 25 mars ; Husâm Zaydân, « Inauguration à Los Angeles de l’exposition sur Toutankhamon en présence du ministre de l’Archéologie », al-Fagr, 25 mars ; Dalia Farouq, « Toutankhamon entame une tournée internationale », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 28 mars).

- -

Samedi 31 mars 2018

Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al-‘Inânî, a pris la décision n° 108/2018 portant nomination du Dr Nâdya Khidr au poste de présidente de l’administration centrale des antiquités égyptiennes, grecques et romaines au Delta, au Sinaï et sur la côte Nord.

Rappelons que Dr Khidr a soutenu sa thèse à l’université d’Alexandrie en 2012. Elle a occupé plusieurs postes au sein du ministère de l’Archéologie jusqu’à devenir directrice générale du musée national d’Alexandrie et du Musée gréco-romain. (Ragab Ramadân, « Nâdya Khidr nommée présidente de l’administration centrale des antiquités égyptiennes, grecques et romaines au Delta, au Sinaï et sur la côte Nord », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 31 mars 2018. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Nouvelles nominations au sein du ministère de l’Archéologie », Sada al-Balad, 29 mars).


IV – AVRIL 2018

Dimanche 1er avril 2018

Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al-‘Inânî, a reçu les directeurs des instituts archéologiques étrangers opérant en Égypte, afin d’examiner avec eux le renforcement de la coopération scientifique en matière de préservation du patrimoine. Cet entretien a réuni les directeurs des instituts allemand, français, polonais, autrichien, suisse, italien, ainsi que le directeur de l’American Research Center in Egypt (ARCE).

Les discussions ont porté sur les avancées technologiques en matière de restauration et de documentation, ainsi que sur la préparation du XIIe Congrès international des égyptologues qui se tiendra au Caire du 3 au 8 novembre 2019. (Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit les directeurs des instituts archéologiques étrangers opérant en Égypte », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 1er avril 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie examine avec les instituts archéologiques étrangers le renforcement de la coopération archéologique », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 1er avril ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit les directeurs des instituts archéologiques étrangers », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 1er avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie examine avec les directeurs des instituts archéologiques étrangers le renforcement de la coopération archéologique », Sada al-Balad, 1er avril).

- -

Lundi 2 avril 2018

Ahmad Muhammad, vendeur d’accessoires d’automobiles, a dénoncé un groupe d’individus qui effectuaient des fouilles clandestines sous une vieille maison contiguë à la sienne. Cette dénonciation a conduit les

policiers de Qanâtir al-Khayriyya à arrêter 4 malfaiteurs :

— Muhammad M., employé dans une pharmacie, âgé de 33 ans.

— Sâmih E., ouvrier de 28 ans.

— Tâmir S., boutiquier de 33 ans.

— ‘Abdallah T., ouvrier de 25 ans.

La perquisition des lieux a révélé la présence d’un cratère de 6 m de profondeur et du matériel de fouilles. Le Parquet d’al-Qalyûbiyya a ouvert une enquête judiciaire. (Nivîn Taha, « 4 individus écroués pour fouilles archéologiques illicites », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 2 avril 2018).

- -

Mardi 3 avril 2018

Un fellah âgé de 37 ans a trouvé la mort par électrocution au cours de fouilles archéologiques clandestines effectuées dans les fondations d’une maison. Il a été transporté à l’hôpital central d’Ihnâsyâ par six de ses complices. Ceux-ci ont été arrêtés en possession de matériel de fouilles. (‘Umar al-Shaykh, « Décès d’un paysan lors de fouilles illicites », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 3 avril 2018).

- -

Mercredi 4 avril 2018

Remains of Graeco-Roman temple near Egypt’s Sîwa Oasis

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


An Egyptian archaeological mission from the Supreme Council of Antiquities has uncovered the remains of a Graeco-Roman temple while carrying our excavation work at the al-Salâm archaeological site, about 50km east of the Sîwa Oasis.

Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî, the head of the Ancient Egyptian Antiquities Department at the Ministry of Antiquities, said that the mission uncovered the front part of the temple as well as parts of its foundations, its main entrance and one-metre thick stones from its outer wall.

A lion statue discovered at Graeco-Roman temple near Egypt’s

Sîwa Oasis

The outer wall leads to a front courtyard with entrances to chambers. al-‘Ashmâwî said he expects the rest of the temple to be excavated this year.

Head of a Graeco-Roman statue discovered

at temple near Egypt’s Sîwa Oasis

The head of the archaeological mission ‘Abd al-‘Azîz al-Dimayrî said that during the removal of the debris from the site, the

mission uncovered architectural elements including upper lintels decorated with scenes, as well as parts of corner pillars decorated with the egg-and-dart architectural device common in the Graeco-Roman era.

al-Dimayrî added that the mission also uncovered the remains of pots, coins, and a statue of a man with Greek facial features, as well as two limestone statues of lions, one of which is headless. (Nevine El-Aref, “Remains of Graeco-Roman temple discovered near Egypt’s Sîwa Oasis”, Ahram Online, April 4, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Découverte de l’entrée d’un temple gréco-romain à Sîwa », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 4 avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Nouvelle découverte archéologique dans l’oasis de Sîwa », Sada al-Balad, 4 avril ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte d’un temple gréco-romain à Sîwa », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 4 avril ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Mise au jour à Sîwa d’un temple gréco-romain », al-Ahrâm, 5 avril ; Nasma Réda, « Un temple gréco-romain découvert à Sîwa », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 18 avril ; “Ministry of Antiquities reveals discovery of Greco-Roman temple near Sîwa”, Egypt Independent, April 5).

- -

Jeudi 5 avril 2018

False criticisms have been made of the current travelling Tutankhamun exhibition that show no respect for the facts, writes Zâhî Hawwâs.

The Ministry of Antiquities announced last year that part of the treasures of the ancient Egyptian boy-king Tutankhamun would travel as “Tutankhamun: The Treasures of the

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


Golden Boy” to the United States to be exhibited at the California Science Centre in Los Angeles. The exhibition would then travel to nine major cities in America, Europe and Australia, and end in the city of Osaka in Japan, it said. Since the exhibition has been the subject of much scrutiny in the media, I would like to tackle some of the criticism in this article.

The exhibition includes some 150 objects from the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr Square, not the 166 objects from the treasures of Tutankhamun stated in the media. It is necessary to highlight the difference between the total number of objects and the total registration numbers. For example, in the exhibition there is a small board game called senet, which some think is similar to the modern game of chess. This game has 13 registration numbers because the board of the game has one number, and its drawer has a number, and the pieces that are used to play it each have a number. Therefore, the total number of registered items for this one piece is 13 and not one.

The exhibition also includes five boxes that once belonged to the boy-king. These are registered under 10 numbers, one for the lid of each box and one for the box itself. One of the king’s sandals has two numbers. There are five golden finger covers and five golden toe covers in the exhibition. These will be exhibited as two objects, but in fact they have 10 registration numbers. This is the case for most of the artefacts in the exhibition, which though consisting of one object in fact are registered by multiple numbers.

There are 13 reed arrows in the exhibition, and each has its own registration number. In

short, the exhibition does not contain 166 objects, but 150, and the difference between the number and the object has been explained. Any specialist in museum studies will confirm the difference between an archaeological object and a registration number.

There has also been some false talk about the minister of antiquities in the media. Some people have demanded that he be reprimanded because he has allowed unique objects to leave the country in the exhibition. I am sorry to say that those criticising the minister do not know the truth, and they have not attempted to find out the facts. The truth is that the objects are not as unique as some claim, and they have parallels. The statue of the boy-king placed above a panther has a parallel item, currently in the Egyptian Museum, which was also found in the tomb. The statue of the boy-king striding above a papyrus boat also has a matching piece from the tomb. The statue with the jackal head and the statue with the head of a hawk have parallels from the tomb. The canopic coffinette, only 29cm in length, is one of four, and the other three remain in the Egyptian Museum.

Some have claimed that Tutankhamun’s coffin is one of the objects on display in the exhibition. This accusation is simply not true. There are five wooden food vessels in the exhibition, but these are from a collection of 100. The statue of Ka in the exhibition has a twin as well, the only difference being in the head cover. The pair of gloves on display is part of a five-pair collection. The rings, collars, and amulets that are travelling have many parallels from the tomb that are now in the museum where anyone can go to see them. The same applies to the boy-king’s bed, two boats and headrests. A beautiful alabaster vessel with a long neck is travelling, and this has a copy in the museum as well.

The new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) near the Gîza Plateau will be ready to receive the remaining collection soon. These objects will be exhibited without those in the travelling exhibition. I must emphasise here that 5,398

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


objects were found in the tomb of Tutankhamun, and the travelling objects will not affect what will be shown at the GEM. In reality, what was exhibited from the Tutankhamun collection in the Egyptian museum was only one-third of the total number of objects, and the rest were until recently stored in Luxor.

The exhibition has many benefits, and the company responsible is an expert in the field. The director of the exhibitions department of the IMG Company that is organising the tour is John NORMAN, founder and president of Exhibitions International, which was recently acquired by IMG. I am dismayed that some people have claimed that the company and its director are corrupt. They say it will make millions and that Egypt will get nothing. They have even attacked the company and made allegations of fraud. These allegations are nothing but lies and rumours that have no factual evidence to support them.

Another mistake that has been made has been the claim that the present company is associated with the Danish company that organised an exhibition in Mexico. The latter was organised during the tenure of ‘Alî Gâballah as secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), and the company refused to pay the costs of returning the objects to Egypt, in this case $15,000. The company said it had not made any money, and Egypt did not make any money from this exhibition either.

However, NORMAN, then head of Exhibitions International, on this occasion paid for the transport that was supposed to have been paid for by the other company. It is not fair to say anything negative about him. He is

one of the most honest people I have ever met and a very good person. I am very unhappy to see the rumours accusing him and his company of fraud. His company has had a very distinguished history in producing blockbuster international exhibitions about Pompeii, Heracleion, and the Titanic, among other subjects.

When I was head of the SCA, I contracted for three exhibitions with Exhibitions International from 2005 to 2011. All the objects that travelled on these occasions came back safely. One of these exhibitions contained 55 objects from the Tutankhamun collection and other objects chosen by Muhammad Sâlih and Mamdûh al-Damâtî, the then director of the Egyptian Museum. The exhibition made $120 million that went towards the construction of the GEM. The company made $20 million, and NORMAN and his company participated in funding the first Children’s Museum in Egypt (in Heliopolis) that is now one of the largest in the Middle East.

We created Egyptian tourist nights during the above-mentioned travelling exhibition that produced funds dedicated to the Children’s Museum. We didn’t pay anything, and we received a lot of money to undertake new projects and bring more tourists to Egypt. At that time, in 2010, there were no rooms in hotels and no tour buses available because everything was fully booked. The records of the Ministry of Tourism will confirm that archaeological exhibitions abroad bring tourism to Egypt, and at the present time this is much needed.

I am making these points because some people have been spreading untruths, saying

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


that these exhibitions are sent abroad, and the objects never come back. However, this is certainly not the first time we have sent exhibitions abroad. Indeed, we have sent out four Tutankhamun exhibits since 1961, and the objects all came back safe and sound. Moreover, the Ministry of Antiquities has also sent exhibitions about Islamic objects to Canada, underwater archaeology to the US (Saint Louis, Missouri), and treasures of the Pyramids to Japan. One thing that can help bring back the cultural power and tourism to Egypt is the present exhibition about the wonders of Tutankhamun.

We need to understand that the reason for sending this exhibition abroad now is to prepare for the celebration of the centennial of the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb. The decision was made to transform this into an international cultural event that would tour the world to encourage people to come to Egypt in 2022.

I would also like to say that when I was head of the SCA I made rules that are still in use today. These state the need for ample and appropriate insurance coverage for travelling objects, the cost of which is to be borne by the international companies, as well as appropriate shipping and packing expenses. The company dealing with the ministry for any exhibition needs to provide a guarantee that the objects are going to return and that the insurance taken out will cover any untoward events.

My name has been mentioned among the untruths circulating about the present exhibition. Some have said that I am the one benefiting from this exhibition and that I have contracted to give 100 lectures abroad for $1

million. Why spread such lies without any evidence? I have travelled everywhere, advocating in Egypt’s name wherever I go. After I left my position at the SCA, I signed a contract with an Egyptian-Polish company to give lectures in Egypt to American groups about the Sphinx and the Luxor Temple. Thousands came to hear me. Indeed, more than 6,000 people came through this company in spite of the fact that many were afraid to come to Egypt. I didn’t do any of this for money, but I did do it all for my love and passion for the archaeology of Egypt. When I lecture in the US, at least 3,000 people attend at the price of $150 and sometimes $50. The tickets are sold out after two days. Who better to advocate for Egypt and Egyptian archaeology but one of the country’s own citizens?

Finally, I would like to say that all this talk is by naysayers who want to see Egypt’s downfall, rather than hope for its success. They have said that if the objects travel, the plane will crash and the objects will be lost. I don’t think that anyone in their right mind would say that because accidents happen this should prevent us from sending exhibitions abroad. Should we refuse to send exhibitions because the cities they’re sent to have a history of volcanic activities or earthquakes? Museums in such areas take this into account in their design and in the mounting of objects.

Some have claimed that the Louvre Museum in Paris does not send exhibitions abroad, but this is false. It has exhibitions abroad all the time, and there is one currently on show in the National Museum of Iran in Tehran. I appeal to all Egyptians to check their facts before making criticisms. Love your country and continuously advocate for its advancement. The golden name of Tutankhamun will always make people realise that on this great land of Egypt the most important ancient civilisation was born. (Zâhî Hawwâs, “The truth about Tutankhamun”, Al-Ahram Weekly, April 5, 2018).

- -

Egypt’s Administrative Prosecution court ordered on Wednesday 72 employees from

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


the archaeological sector and a number of security officials from Munûfiyya governorate to be tried on charges of theft as well as turning a historical site into a parking lot, al-Watan newspaper reported.

Muhammad Samîr, spokesman for the Administrative Prosecution, said that the people responsible for the looting are the former director of the archaeological site in Qwisnâ city, the former archaeologist in charge of Qwisnâ’s stone-pit, 40 archaeological inspectors in the historical hill area of Qwisnâ quarry, and 25 security officials in the archaeological hill area of Qwisnâ quarry.

According to al-Watan, the prosecution received a complaint from one of the archaeologists responsible for the area of the stone-pits in Qwisnâ who had reported the destruction of a large segment of the archaeological hill in Qwisnâ from the west side. The charged persons reportedly stole monuments worth LE5 million, which was found in the sand at the site.

The site was allegedly used as a parking lot for heavy transport vehicles that belong to one of the factories at the area.

The prosecution began investigations into the case, and ordered the formation of a committee headed by the financial and administrative inspector in the General Court of the province of Munûfiyya. The commission report included violations on the archaeological property by digging ancient sands and establishing a road that passes next to the archaeological hill area.

Investigation showed that the sand contained treasures and monuments, while affirming that the site is an ancient cemetery, which hosts monuments and coffins of different sizes.

“This ancient hill was treated as a warehouse for the remnants of the factories adjacent to it, under the sight of all those responsible for this archaeological location, with no action taken regarding these violations,” the investigations said. (“72 officials charged with theft after turning

ancient archaeological site into parking lot”, Egypt Independent, April 5, 2018. Voir également Hind al-Sa‘îd, « 72 responsables archéologiques à Qwisnâ comparaissent devant la justice », al-Ahrâm, 5 avril).

- -


A collection of 122 artefacts from the King Tutankhamun collection previously housed at the Luxor Museum was successfully transported to its new home in the Grand Egyptian Museum late Tuesday night.

The collection includes baskets, boxes, a wooden chair, a bed and a chariot, among other pieces. Among the most treasured, is a gilded head of the goddess Hathor, according to Târiq Tawfîq, Supervisor General of the GEM.

A number of other artefacts shed light on funerary ritual practices and daily life during Tutankhamun’s roughly ten-year reign.

A gilded bust representing the cow goddess Hathor

Îsa Zaydân, head of restoration at the GEM, told Ahram Online that all pieces had been restored before transportation and were packed over a period of nine days and according to the latest scientific techniques.

He added that a Japanese team of archaeologists helped the Egyptian team in packing and transporting Tutankhamun’s funerary chariot in a specially-designed vehicle to protect against vibrations. (Nevine El-Aref, “Luxor Museum’s Tut collection moved to Grand Egyptian Museum”, Ahram Online, April 11, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Des pièces de la collection de

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


Toutankhamon transférées du musée de Louqsor vers le GEM », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 10 avril ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Des pièces de la collection de Toutankhamon arrivent au GEM », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 10 avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « De nouvelles pièces de Toutankhamon transférées de Louqsor vers le GEM », Sada al-Balad, 10 avril).

- -

A frieze of falcons found in the temple

The Egyptian-German excavation mission at Matariyya, Heliopolis, recently uncovered roughly 4,500 fragments of King Psamtik I’s quartzite colossus, parts of which were first discovered last year at the nearby Sûq al-Khamîs archaeological site.

Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî, Head of the Ancient Egyptian antiquities department at the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities, said that these fragments, along with the previously discovered 6,400 pieces, allow researchers to calculate the original size and shape of the colossus, which was deliberately destroyed.

A digital reconstruction of the King Psamtik I colossus

“The new fragments confirm that the colossus once depicted King Psamtik I

standing, but it also reveals that his left arm was held in front of the body, an unusual feature. A very carefully carved scene on the back-pillar shows the kneeling king Psamtik I in front of the creator-god Atum of Heliopolis,” al-‘Ashmâwî told Ahram Online.

He added that the majority of the fragments were found in south of the colossus’ pedestal.

The temple area was left open, al-‘Ashmâwî added, probably during the Fatimids Era when the temple walls were dismantled to be reused in several Islamic buildings.

A head found in the Ptolemaic workshop

Dietrich RAUE, Head of the German mission, explained that excavation work was accompanied by a geomorphological and geophysical survey which revealed many fragments of a quartzite gate belonging to Ramses II and Nectanebo I near the latter’s temple in Matariyya.

Restoration work on the colossus

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


RAUE pointed out that the geophysical survey had indicated a number of areas with a large number of fragments of the former temple.

Within the four ruined walls of the temple, he said, some exceptional finds were made.

Among them were a fragmented frieze of falcons, part of a gate of Merenptah (1213-1203 BCE, 19th Dynasty) as well as parts of a colossal Ramesside sphinx carved in red granite.

“It seems evident that Nectanebo I added his building to a major temple built at an earlier date,” RAUE told Ahram Online.

The archaeologist asserted that excavation work in the area has led to the discovery of new room units from the mid-Ptolemaic era.

One of the uncovered fragments

Some fragments reveal the known practice of reusing of older Pharaonic temple items from previous periods during the 2nd and 1st millennium BCE.

The work was accompanied by archaeobotanical and archaeozoological studies for the identification of plant and animal remains at the site. (Nevine El-Aref, “New discovery in Matariyya sheds light on the shape of king Psamtik I colossus”, Ahram Online, April 11, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Mise au jour de 4 500 pièces de Psammétique Ier à Matariyya », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 11 avril ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte à Matariyya de 4 500 pièces de Psammétique Ier », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 11 avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Mise au jour de plus de 4 500

pièces de Psammétique Ier à Matariyya », Sada al-Balad, 11 avril ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Découverte à Matariyya de 4 500 pièces de Psammétique Ier », al-Ahrâm, 12 avril ; “4,500 artifacts belonging to King Psamtik I statue discovered in Matariyya”, Egypt Independent, April 12).

- -

Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities received three artifacts – remnants of a mummy – from the Foreign Ministry on Tuesday after it retrieved them from the US last week.

General Supervisor of Administration of Restoring Antiquities Sha‘bân ‘Abd al-Gawwâd stated the artifacts are a human skull and two hands of mummy, and that they were delivered to the Egyptian General Consulate in New York.

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


‘Abd al-Gawwâd clarified that the artifacts were sent to restoration laboratories of the Egyptian Museum to check them, seeking to identify the mummy and historical era to which they belonged.

The artifacts were smuggled from Luxor’s Valley of the Kings in 1927. They were seized by US police while smugglers tried to sell them in Manhattan, New York, in 2017. (“Egypt retrieves remnants of mummy smuggled to US in 1927”, Egypt Independent, April 11, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère des Affaires étrangères remet au ministère de l’Archéologie des pièces volées depuis 1927 », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 10 avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Les États-Unis restituent 3 pièces archéologiques volées de Louqsor en 1927 », Sada al-Balad, 10 avril ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Le ministère des Affaires étrangères remet au ministère de l’Archéologie des pièces restituées par les États-Unis », Watanî, 10 avril).

- -

Jeudi 12 avril 2018

A group of 49 Miss World contestants visited the Gîza Pyramids on Thursday, as part of their tour of Egypt. They were escorted by archaeologist Muhammad Sâlih, who said that they entered the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Sphinx and the panorama area, where they documented their trip with photos. The Miss Worlds are also visiting the cities of Luxor, ‘Ayn al-Sukhna and Marsâ ‘Alam. (Nevine El-Aref, “Miss World contestants visit Gîza Pyramids”, Ahram Online, April 12, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « 49 Miss Monde visitent le plateau de Gîza », al-Ahrâm al-

‘Arabî, 12 avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Des Miss Monde prennent des selfies avec le Sphinx », Sada al-Balad, 12 avril ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « 49 Miss Monde visitent les pyramides de Gîza », Watanî, 12 avril).

- -

Vendredi 13 avril 2018

al-‘Inânî, DE SOUSA and Tawfîq at the GEM (Photo Ayman

Barayez)

Accompanied by Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo DE SOUSA and his diplomatic delegation toured the monuments of the Gîza plateau and both Egyptian museums on Friday.

At the plateau they visited the Great Pyramid, the Sphinx, and the panorama area where al-‘Inânî spoke to President DE SOUSA and his delegation on the greatness of ancient Egyptian civilization.

DE SOUSA and the delegation expressed their fondness for Egypt’s distinguished heritage and insisted on documenting their visit by taking photos in front of the Great Pyramid and the Sphinx.

al-‘Inânî, DE SOUSA and the Portuguese delegation before the

Sphinx (Photo Ahmed Roumeh)

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


The group also toured the Grand Egyptian Museum’s conservation centre and lab for wooden artifacts, which currently houses the recently transferred King Tutankhamun collection.

They also visited the lab for heavy artefacts, which houses the colossi of Kings Amenhotep III and Menkaure, which will soon be displayed in the museum’s grand staircase and atrium, respectively.

The Portuguese president and antiquities minister also viewed the royal mummies’ hall and the Golden King collection at the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr.

al-‘Inânî offers DE SOUSA a replica boat. (Photo: Ayman Barayez)

al-‘Inânî gifted DE SOUSA with a replica of King Khufu’s boat crafted by the replicas unit at the ministry. (Nevine El-Aref, “Portuguese President de Sousa and Egypt’s Minister of Antiquities tour Gîza Pyramids”, Ahram Online, April 13, 2018. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie accompagne le président portugais en tournée », Sada al-Balad, 13 avril ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Le président portugais en visite au GEM », Watanî, 13 avril).

- -

Head of the Islamic, Coptic and Jewish Antiquities Department Muhammad ‘Abd al-Latîf denied recently the archaeological origins of a Palace located in Gîza’s district of ‘Agûza, and known as ‘Wisdom Palace’.

His denial came after numerous media outlets claimed that the palace is an archaeologically historical site and was offered for sale. He affirmed that the palace is not registered as an antiquity and is not subject to the Antiquities Protection Law 117/1983.

The palace’s story came to prominence after debate arose on social networking sites about the impending sale of a seemingly archaeological villa in the neighbourhood of ‘Agûza, through a property-selling website. The owners wrote in the advert that the villa is archaeological and listed it at a price of LE80 million.

‘Abd al-Latîf called on people to investigate accuracy in issuing any information that will cause confusion and distract public opinion, stressing that the Ministry of Antiquities is striving to protect and preserve history and monuments. (“LE80 million ‘Palace of Wisdom’ is not archaeological: official”, Egypt Independent, April 13, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le président du département des antiquités islamiques et coptes : Le palais al-Hikma ne relève pas du patrimoine », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 12 avril ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : Le palais al-Hikma n’est pas classé sur la liste du patrimoine », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 12 avril ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « L’adjoint du ministre de l’Archéologie : Le palais al-Hikma n’est pas soumis à la loi sur la protection du patrimoine », Watanî, 12 avril).

- -

Lundi 16 avril 2018

Le ministère de l’Archéologie a décidé d’épargner l’église de la Vierge Marie située sur le dromos de Louqsor, après une précédente décision de la transférer. C’est en tout cas ce qui ressort de la réunion d’aujourd’hui entre le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al-‘Inânî ; le président du Service architectural des Forces armées, major général Kâmil al-Wazîr ; le gouverneur de Louqsor, Muhammad Badr ; l’évêque de Louqsor, Anbâ Yûsâb ; et l’évêque de Naqâda et de Qûs, Anbâ Benyamin.

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


Les négociations entre ces différentes parties ont débouché sur le démontage seulement des bâtiments administratifs annexés à l’église tout en laissant celle-ci in situ. (Shams Yûnis, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annule le transfert de l’église de la Vierge située sur le dromos », Sada al-Balad, 16 avril 2018. Voir également Nâdir Shukrî, « Accord final concernant l’église de la Vierge à Louqsor », Watanî, 16 avril).

- -

Mardi 17 avril 2018

A big surprise was awaiting the visitors of the famous Egyptian Museum in Cairo, as King Tutankhamun was their new personal tour guide, thanks to a new augmented reality (AR) project developed by an Egyptian researcher at the University of Staffordshire.

King Tut appeared as a hologram arriving at the central exhibit where visitors can clearly see him virtually through a Microsoft’s HoloLens AR headset that combines the physical environment with a 3D virtual space.

When people wear the headset the museum will virtually turn into a 360-degree virtual scene of the king’s temple in the ancient ages, and the museum walls will transform into giants columns. People can see guards, queens, other ancient characters, while king Tut will appear to introduce himself before demonstrating his power and riches.

The ‘MuseumEye’ project was developed by Râmî Hammâdî as a part of his PhD research that aims mainly to give life to the still artifacts in the Egyptian Museum, which for security reasons are usually displayed behind glass cases with limited interaction with the visitors.

“I wanted to increase people’s engagement and to make them feel as though they have actually travelled to another era,” Hammâdî said.

The 30-year-old researcher wanted to look at how technology can be used to make the museum experience more exciting.

Hammâdî already tested the project for seven days on 141 visitors at the Egyptian museum where he was overwhelmed by visitors’ impressive feedback of the experience.

“Crowds of people wished to try the device, they were extremely interactive with the experience,” he told Egypt Independent.

The Egyptian Museum welcomed the experience but they have not shown any promising signs of adopting the project permanently for the visitors. (Hend El-Behary, “Now you can have Tutankhamun as a personal tour-guide at the Egyptian Museum”, Egypt Independent, April 17, 2018).

- -

Le secrétaire général du CSA, Dr Mustafa Wazîrî, a décidé la nomination de Hamdî Hammâm au poste de président de l’administration centrale des unités archéologiques portuaires. Rappelons que Hammâm a commencé sa carrière en 1997 en tant qu’inspecteur dans la zone archéologique d’Asyût. Il a fondé et dirigé la première Unité archéologique à l’aéroport international d’Asyût. Il a occupé plusieurs postes successifs pour finir directeur général de l’Unité archéologique à l’aéroport international du Caire. (Hiba ‘Âdil, « Hamdî Hammâm nommé président de l’administration centrale des unités archéologiques portuaires », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 17 avril 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Nomination de Hamdî Hammâm au poste de président de l’administration centrale des unités archéologiques portuaires », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 17 avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Hamdî Hammâm nommé président de l’administration centrale des unités archéologiques portuaires », Sada al-Balad, 17 avril).

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


- -

Jeudi 19 avril 2018

Restoration works at the Sphinxes Avenues

Every year on 18 April, the world celebrates the International Day for Monuments and Sites, also known as World Heritage Day, whose establishment was approved by the 22nd UNESCO General Conference in 1983.

The day celebrates the joint history and heritage of the human race in an attempt not only to raise the world’s awareness of important cultural monuments and sites, but also to embrace their preservation.

According to the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) website, the aim of the International Day is to encourage local communities and individuals throughout the world to consider the importance of cultural heritage to their lives, identities and communities and to promote awareness of its diversity and vulnerability and the efforts required to protect and conserve it.

The theme of the 2018 International Day is “Heritage for Generations” and is led by the ICOMOS Emerging Professionals Working Group. It will be implemented through sharing stories and transferring knowledge between generations as a crucial step in cultural development and characterising the human experience since time immemorial.

This year’s theme is an opportunity to emphasise the importance of inter-generational exchanges in safeguarding and celebrating the world’s heritage. Activities to foster fruitful dialogue between generations may include conferences, lectures, training sessions, round-table discussions, poster

sessions, Q&A sessions with younger and older members of professional and non-professional heritage communities, and interactive site visits to heritage properties.

In Egypt, the Upper Egyptian governorate of Luxor will mark the International Day with various events.

At Luxor Temple, Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî and Luxor Governor Muhammad Badr will unveil the fifth of the six colossi of the Pharaoh Ramses II that once decorated the façade of the temple’s first pylon. Damaged in antiquity, this has now been lifted after a year of restoration and reconstruction.

The six colossi sustained damage during the fourth century CE when a destructive earthquake hit the area, al-‘Inânî said, adding that three had completely collapsed. In 1958, an Egyptian archaeological mission led by Muhammad ‘Abd al-Qâdir uncovered one of the collapsed colossi that had broken into 57 parts. The blocks were moved to wooden shelters on the western side of the first pylon.

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


This colossus was restored, reconstructed and re-erected last year to join the neighbouring colossi.

al-‘Inânî inspecting the restoration of Ramses II’s colossus

Work on reconstructing the fifth colossus began in November 2017 with a budget of LE500,000, explains Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), adding that the statue is now fully erect in its original position. The newly reconstructed black granite colossus weighs 65 tons and stands 11.7m from the base to the crown.

It depicts Ramses II standing and wearing Ancient Egypt’s double crown. Before its reconstruction only 40 per cent of the statue’s blocks had been found, including the head and the base with both legs. The blocks were moved to wooden shelters on the eastern side of the first pylon, where they have been subject to restoration and reconstruction.

Cleaning the colossus

New renovation: al-‘Inânî is also to pay a visit to the Luxor Museum to inaugurate new displays after the removal of the Tutankhamun collection to join other material at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) overlooking the Gîza Plateau.

Earlier this week, a collection of 122 artefacts from the Tutankhamun collection that were on display at the Luxor Museum was successfully transported to its new home at the GEM. The collection includes baskets, boxes, a wooden chair, a bed and a chariot, among other pieces. Among the most treasured is a gilded head of the goddess Hathor, which sheds more light on funerary practices and daily life during Tutankhamun’s reign.

To fill the gap that the transfer of these objects has made at the Luxor Museum, Ilhâm Salâh, head of the Museums Section at the ministry, explained that a collection of 100 objects would replace those belonging to Tutankhamun. The new artefacts were recently discovered by an Egyptian archaeological mission in four tombs of ancient Egyptian top officials at the Dirâ‘ Abû al-Nagâ Necropolis on the west bank of the Nile at Luxor.

The tombs belong to Amenemhat, an 18th-Dynasty goldsmith of the god Amun-Re, the nobleman Userhat, and the yet unidentified tombs of Kampp 150 and Kampp 161.

Salâh said that the artefacts included a large collection of ushabti figurines, painted mummy masks, jewellery, anthropoid painted sarcophagi, and a distinguished painted statute of a lady in the Osirian shape.

al-‘Inânî will also inaugurate special routes for the disabled at the Karnak Temple. This comes within the framework of a project launched by the ministry to make Egypt’s archaeological sites and museums more accessible to people with disabilities, starting with improvements to Luxor Museum and the Temples of Karnak and Luxor.

Mustafa al-Saghîr, director-general of Karnak antiquities, said the project would bring improved mobility for those in wheelchairs, as well as making information more accessible to those with impaired sight and hearing. Special paths have been constructed at Karnak and Luxor to facilitate the movement of wheelchairs, while information boards have been put up that are accessible to those with disabilities.

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


A documentary film at the visitor centre will have sign-language incorporated. Toilets have been renovated and equipped to suit special-needs visitors, according to international standards.

al-Saghîr explained other improvements at the Karnak Temple site. The podium area and the area between the Teharaka Column and the open-air museum now feature ramps measuring 1.5m in width, while a wooden slope has been installed from the start of the Avenue of Sphinxes. The ministry conducted the project in partnership with an NGO called Hilm (Dream) that specialises in promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of life, including access to public premises.

Îmân Zaydân, supervisor of the ministry’s Financial Development Department, said that the project to improve accessibility at archaeological sites highlighted the role of NGOs in serving the community.

The minister will also inaugurate the area between the seventh and 10th pylons at the Karnak Temple after development in collaboration with the Armed Forces Engineering Authority. Wazîrî said that this area has long been off the tourist track and starts from the cachette court before the seventh pylon and ends at the tenth pylon.

al-‘Inânî will pay a visit to the Sphinxes Avenue that once connected the Karnak to the Luxor Temple to inspect recent work towards its development and opening to the public. The restoration of the avenue started several years ago but stopped in the aftermath of the 2011 revolution. Work resumed in 2015, and the restoration of the first and fifth sections of the avenue represents 37 per cent of the whole.

al-‘Inânî said the restoration work had been completed in the first and fifth sections. The work in the first section, which stretches from the Luxor Temple for 350m, includes the removal of encroachments as well as the consolidation of the avenue’s eastern wall and the restoration of the sphinxes themselves. The restoration of the 600m fifth section

extends from the area behind the Luxor Library to the town’s airport road.

The restoration is continuing on the other sections of the avenue in order to open the whole route to the public.

The Sphinxes Avenue was once the site of ceremonial processions that connected the Luxor and Karnak temples. It dates to around 380 BCE and stretches some 2.7km. It would originally have had 1,350 sphinxes lining both sides. Around half of these have been uncovered, with many later reworked or now sitting in museums. Much of the avenue is still covered by modern buildings.

To mark World Heritage Day, the ministry will open all archaeological sites in Egypt registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List to Egyptian students for free. The sites include Memphis and its Necropolis, including the Pyramid areas from Gîza to Dahshûr, Islamic Cairo, Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis, the Abû Mînâ Monastery, the area around Saint Catherine’s Monastery in Sinai, and the Nubia Monuments from Abû Simbil to Philae.

al-‘Inânî said that all the archaeological museums in Egypt would also be free of charge for Egyptian citizens and Arab residents of the country on the International Day. (Nevine El-Aref, “Celebrating Egypt’s heritage”, Al-Ahram Weekly, April 19, 2018. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie célèbre à Louqsor la Journée mondiale du patrimoine », Sada al-Balad, 14 avril ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Accès gratuit aux sites archéologiques à l’occasion de la Journée mondiale du patrimoine », Watanî, 14 avril ; « Inauguration du colosse de Ramsès II au temple de Louqsor », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 20 avril ; Nevine El-Aref, “Ramses II colossus revealed in Egypt’s Luxor after restoration”, Ahram Online, April 21; Rânyâ ‘Abd al-‘Âtî, « Ramsès II réintègre sa place sur la façade du temple de Louqsor », al-Ahrâm, 22 avril).

- -

An exhibition entitled “10 Years of Dominican Archaeology in Egypt: Excavations at Taposiris Magna” has been inaugurated in

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


the foyer of the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr Square. The exhibition celebrates a decade of excavation by the Dominican Republic at the site of Taposiris Magna north of Alexandria and in search of the tombs of the Ptolemaic queen Cleopatra and her Roman lover Mark Antony.

The exhibition was inaugurated by Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî and the Dominican ambassador to Egypt. It displays a unique array of objects discovered at the site, all of which are on display for the first time.

Kathleen MARTINEZ, head of the Dominican mission, said the exhibition put on show more than 300 pieces arranged by the locations in which they were found, reinforcing the site’s importance during the reign of Cleopatra and also before and after her rule.

“The strong evidence that Taposiris Magna was a crucial site to Cleopatra is represented through the many depictions of the queen, among them the statues of Isis, coins and inscribed stelae amongst other objects,” MARTINEZ said. She said the masterpieces that had been found were testimony of the administrative, religious, royal and social activities that had thrived at the end of the Ptolemaic Period in Egypt.

Following the death of Alexander the Great, who conquered Egypt in 332 BCE and established the city of Alexandria, the Macedonian dynasty of the Ptolemaic Period began as his conquests were divided among his former generals. Ptolemy I, one of the generals, was the first of many Ptolemaic kings to rule Egypt until 30 BCE, when Cleopatra VII was defeated and the Romans took the territory as a province.

In the approximately 300 years of Ptolemaic rule, Egypt thrived and became a terrain where Greek and Egyptian art, religion and language mingled. Temples took the chief god Serapis, a god combining aspects of Apis, Ptah and Osiris under Hellenistic guise, into their pantheons. The ancient Egyptian goddess Isis was often likened to the Greek goddess Aphrodite, and Horus became Harpocrates.

Many other artistic changes were evident in trade objects, such as vessels and coins, as well as in religious rites and daily life. Alexandria, at the centre of this amalgam of cultures and influences, became a hub of knowledge and a thriving, cosmopolitan city.

MARTINEZ believes that Cleopatra and Antony were buried inside the temple dedicated to Isis and Osiris at Taposiris Magna about 45km west of Alexandria. The religious and political significance of the temple, along with its location, would have made this temple a logical burial place for Cleopatra since she associated herself with Isis and Mark Antony with Osiris, she said.

The Temple of Taposiris Magna was described by the ancient Greek historian

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


PLUTARCH as resplendent with Osirian mystery. The Roman writer STRABO also recorded that Alexander the Great stopped at the temple on his journey to the oasis at Sîwa. As such, it would have been an important place for Cleopatra in life and perhaps in death.

The mission resulted in various finds. One of the most important discoveries found inside the temple of Taposiris Magna is a unique stela inscribed in hieroglyphics and demotic script. This stela is dated to the reign of Ptolemy V, a famous ruler who issued the decree found on the Rosetta Stone that originally aided in the deciphering of hieroglyphics.

The stela mentions gifts given by Ptolemy V to the priests of Isis. There are two other incomplete stelae similar to the one found erected inside the temples of Isis in Philae and Dandara in Upper Egypt. “Out of all three stelae, the one found at Taposiris Magna has the most complete text of the edict,” MARTINEZ said.

She added that another significant find was a bronze piece given by a Ptolemaic king to soldiers for bravery and dedication in battle. A great number of bronze coins with depictions of the figure of Isis on the front and on the

back, as well as the name of Cleopatra, were also found. A large cemetery outside the temple complex dating to the Ptolemaic Period was found. Inside the tombs were mummies covered with gold, their heads directed towards the temple as if someone important was buried there.

“The beauty of the objects in this exhibition serves as a continual reminder that there is still much more to unravel concerning the mystery of the burials of the Ptolemaic rulers, the ancestors of Cleopatra VII, and the mystery of Cleopatra’s rule,” MARTINEZ commented. (Nevine El-Aref, “Dominican archaeology in Egypt”, Al-Ahram Weekly, April 19, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure une exposition sur les fouilles de la mission de la République dominicaine », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 18 avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Inauguration d’une exposition sur les dix années de fouilles de la mission de la République dominicaine », Sada al-Balad, 18 avril ; “Temporary exhibition displays 300 artifacts for first time at Egyptian Museum”, Egypt Independent, April 18).

- -

Vendredi 20 avril 2018

At 9am on Wednesday, a group of men from the Ministry of Antiquities, including technicians, officials and two head figures in the Islamic Antiquities Sector began a mission to disassemble and remove several dozen historic items and architectural pieces from Islamic Cairo mosques for temporary storage in the warehouses of the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation (NMEC) pending committee decisions to put them on exhibition.

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


According to official documents, this project was not to be officially announced.

Fifty-five minbars, or pulpits for preaching the khutba (religious sermon), and 60 other pieces, including mishkâhs (mosque lamps), Quran reciters’ chairs and antique chandeliers are set for relocation under decision no. 110/2018.

Officials at Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities told al-Ahrâm Arabic that the purpose of the move is to protect the Islamic treasures from being stolen.

Between the removal and re-displaying of the pieces, several historic Cairo mosques will remain without minbars.

Heritage experts confirmed to al-Ahrâm that it will probably be impossible to reassemble the minbars after they are dismantled for transportation to the closed warehouses.

al-Ahrâm witnessed the dismantling of one of the most elaborate minbars from Cairo’s Mamluk era: the minbar of the Abû Bakr Muzhir mosque and school. When asked why this was being undertaken, ministry figures at the site provided only one answer: "This is the decision of the cabinet."

This decision and others raises a number of questions, the least of which is: Do our officials know the worth of what they dealing with in the first place?

Over the last fifteen years, some 17 minbars from Cairo’s historic mosques have been stolen in either entirety or part, as were numerous other precious items, only to emerge later in auction rooms.

Among the most important stolen items were historic mishkâhs and other smaller pieces that can easily be carried away. The culprits are unknown, but accusations have been exchanged in accountability between the Ministry of Antiquities and the Ministry of Religious Endowments.

The Ministry of Antiquities has a moral and legal obligation to protect those possessions and buildings. The Ministry of Religious

Endowments, on the other hand, is the legal owner and administrator of those mosques.

Throughout 700 years, Egypt’s historic mosques have endured as a lasting heritage. That is now threatened.

Less than a month ago, England announced that it will undertake an important yearlong project to restore and document 25 of Cairo’s Mamluk-era minbars, and the Ministry of Antiquities announced its partnership in the endeavour.

Protection from Theft?

The distinguished place was transformed into a barracks of workers and officials as they began to dismantle the huge minbar with unusual speed.

al-Ahrâm observed as the stairs of the minbar were placed on the ground and arranged in order. Quickly, one of the ministry’s restorers began packing the minbar’s parts using plastic sheets and sponge panels to tie them together.

The Egyptian Institution for the Preservation and Protection of Heritage was also present. The civil organization worked to photograph and record the pieces as they were being dismantled. Ministry officials also began documentation. Confusion arose when it was discovered that an al-Ahrâm journalist was also present.

When al-Ahrâm asked about the purpose of these efforts, Dr. Abû Bakr ‘Abdallah, Cairo antiquities supervisor and head of the technical bureau, said “Mosques have became

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


disasters. We estimate that everyday that a theft takes place and we cannot allocate guards for every mosque, especially because the Ministry of Religious Endowments, which owns and administers these mosques, is lax, while the Ministry of Antiquities is responsible for their protection and preservation."

He added that all the minbars will be stored in the warehouses of the NMEC for display later.

When asked how 55 minbars will be put in one showroom, ‘Abdallah did made no comment and referred al-Ahrâm to a higher official. That official also refused to comment.

Interpreting a Vague Decision

According to official documents, the aforementioned decision was taken after the Ministry of Antiquities asked the cabinet to agree upon “the transfer of heritage possessions from mosques to the Ministry of Antiquities in order to protect them from theft."

The cabinet agreed, and issued decision no. 110 on 20 February 2018, and asked the Ministry of Antiquities to provide copies of these items.

What comes as a surprise is the second article of the decision: “Taking care that this topic won’t be announced.”

The Head of the Islamic antiquities section at the ministry issued an executive memorandum specifying the kind and number

of antiquities and the timetable for their transfer.

This memorandum stated, “The documentation and registration processes are ongoing, and last February, 117 mishkâhs in the al-Rifâ‘î Mosque were registered and transferred to the NMEC." This means that the transfer process began well before the cabinet issued its decision.

Expert Questions

The first form of nuisance was the minbar of the Abû Bakr Muzhir mosque and school in Birgwân Alley, which was built in 1480 AD.

Dr. Umniya ‘Abd al-Barr, an expert in Mamluk architecture, said, “The mosque’s minbar specifically is a masterpiece for its woodwork and seashell work which is very accurate and beautiful. In addition, the mosque in general is one of Cairo’s architectural masterpieces, especially its wooden ceilings and marble columns."

"It is very rare to see the signature of the maker who made the decorations and engravings of the minbar and the mihrâb (niche). His name was inscribed as ‘the work of ‘Abd al-Qâdir an-Naqqâsh,’ perhaps as a testament to his virtuosity," she explained.

The minbar’s decorations are repeated on the doors and window stiles.

She adds the Abû Bakr Muzhir’s minbar is still in its original state, which is a rare in Egypt and the entire Arab region.

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


"It has only required minor restoration work. Consequently, the minbar should be kept in its original place because it is part and parcel of this historic building," she concluded.

‘Abd al-Barr said such a mass disassembly and re-displaying has not been undertaken in any country in the world.

She also wonders about planned storage methods, because these minbars are made of timber, which requires very precise care in order to preserve it.

“I am not sure that the Ministry of Antiquities has this capacity in the first place." (Hanan Hagag, “Historic Islamic Cairo mosques without Khutba pulpits”, Ahram Online, April 20, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Lancement d’un projet de restauration de 30 minbars d’époque mamelouke », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 4 avril ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « La documentation et la restauration des minbars mamelouks se mettent en place », Watanî, 5 avril ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie transmet au Parquet le dossier du vol de la mosquée Abû Bakr Muzhir », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 14 avril ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie ouvre une enquête sur la disparition de fragments d’incrustation de la mosquée Abû Bakr Muzhir », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 14 avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « al-‘Assâl : Le démontage du minbar de la mosquée Abû Bakr Muzhir est un spectacle affligeant », Sada al-Balad, 21 avril).

- -

An additional 350 artifacts have been discovered at Userhat cemetery in Luxor, increasing the number of excavated artifacts at

the cemetery to 1,400 so far, said Mustafa Wazîrî, Director General of Luxor Antiquities and Head of the Egyptian archaeological mission operating at the site of the newly-discovered Pharaonic cemetery in Luxor.

Wazîrî mentioned in a statement Thursday that the cemetery the resting places of 18th Dynasty nobles, which constituted of an open courtyard leading to a hall and then another long hallway.

"After lifting 450 cubic meters of rubble, the entrance to the cemetery appeared and two entrances to two other graves appeared in the courtyard itself," Wazîrî said.

In the hall, a wooden coffin bearing inscriptions was discovered in a very good condition.

A nine-meter deep well was discovered with two rooms at the bottom of the well. The eastern room contained ushabti statues and wooden masks. The western room is yet to be examined, Wazîrî said.

Antiquities Minister Khâlid al-‘Inânî announced on Tuesday the discovery of a cemetery in Luxor that contains dozens of coffins, Pharaonic mummies, ushabti statues and masks collared with gold.

The cemetery, named " Kampp 157", was discovered by an Egyptian archaeological mission on Luxor's west bank and dates back to the 18th Dynasty. It belonged to a city adviser named Userhat, Wazîrî said in an earlier statement. (“350 additional artifacts found in newly-excavated Luxor cemetery”, Egypt Independent, April 20, 2018).

- -

In recognition of both World Heritage Day and Social Solidarity Minister Ghâda Wâlî’s declaration of 2018 as the year of Egyptians with disabilities, Egypt’s Antiquities Ministry on Friday announced that Karnak Temple would soon be accessible to the disabled.

Antiquities Minister Khâlid al-‘Inânî and Luxor Governor Muhammad Badr toured around Karnak Temple and its southern axis in order to examine the latest work at the site. The visit was attend by Mustafa Wazîrî,

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


Secretary General of Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities, top ministry officials, members of Egypt’s Parliament and ambassadors of foreign countries to Cairo.

al-‘Inânî told Ahram Online that special visitors’ pathways were created throughout the temple to ease the visits of those with physical disabilities. Special signs for the disabled were also installed.

The additions make Karnak Temple the first archaeological site in Egypt to be more friendly to those with special needs.

The project was carried out in collaboration with an NGO named Hilm (Dream), which advocates on behalf of disabled Egyptians.

al-‘Inânî also inspected ongoing work to link the temple’s southern axis with the Avenue of Sphinxes.

The southern axis runs north to south and extends from the courtyard of the Karnak cachette in front of the seventh pylon all the way to the 10th pylon. Wazîrî noted that this is the first opening of the southern axis to tourists.

Mustafa al-Saghîr, director of the Karnak Temple and the Avenue of Sphinxes development project, said that the project is in full swing in hopes of opening soon. He added that the ministry carried out the project in collaboration with the Engineering Authority of Egypt’s armed forces. (Nevine El-Aref, “Karnak Temple will soon be accessible to the disabled: Egypt’s antiquities minister at Luxor ceremony”, Ahram Online, April 20, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le temple de Karnak, premier site accessible aux handicapés », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 20 avril).

- -

Samedi 21 avril 2018

In a statement, Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities has denied that it will remove 55 historical pulpits from Islamic mosques in Egypt, describing the reported news as unfounded.

Secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities Mustafa Wazîrî said the ministry has not and will not remove any historical pulpits from Islamic mosques in Egypt. It only transferred the lanterns of al-Rifâ‘î Mosque after seven of them were stolen but recovered three weeks later in January 2017.

It also removed one pulpit of Abû Bakr Muzhir Mosque after parts of the metal decorations of its door were stolen a week ago.

The historic mosque of al-Ashraf (Photo: Reuters)

Wazîrî pointed out that in January 2017 the Permanent Committee for Islamic and Coptic Antiquities decided to document all artefacts inside Islamic mosques in an attempt to protect and preserve them.

The lanterns of al-Rifâ‘î Mosque were taken to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC), scheduled to be partly open by the end of 2018. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities will not remove historical pulpits from mosques”, Ahram Online, April 21, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie démonte 115 pièces archéologiques des mosquées du Caire », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 15 avril ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : Nous n’avons pas l’intention de transférer 55 minbars des mosquées vers les musées », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 21 avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le transfert des minbars des mosquées n’est pas une solution pour les sécuriser », Sada al-Balad, 21 avril ; Mu’min ‘Abdallah, « Le minbar de Muzhir balloté entre les ministères de l’Archéologie et des Waqfs », al-Tahrîr, 22 avril ; Muhammad Rushdî, « Recours en justice contre le démontage des minbars des mosquées historiques », al-Tahrîr, 23 avril).

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


- -

Dimanche 22 avril 2018

Egyptian archaeological missions in Upper Egypt have made two rare discoveries, unearthing a marble head of Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius in Aswân and an unusually positioned Osirian temple in Luxor.

The Luxor discovery was made at the southern side of Karnak Temples’ tenth pylon, with archaeologists revealing architectural elements of a Late Period shrine dedicated for god Osiris-Ptah-Neb.

The well-preserved find consists of an entrance, foundation remains, columns, inner walls and ruins of a third hall located at the eastern side. Paving stones from the shrine floor were also uncovered, along with other extension structures built during a later period.

The shrine

‘Isâm Nâgî, head of the archaeological mission, described the discovery as important because the shrine is not located on the eastern or northern side of the Amun-Re temple in line with the ancient Egyptian belief. Rather, it is on the southern side, pointing to the importance of the Osirian belief at that time.

Also uncovered were a collection of clay pots, remains of statues, and a winged frame relief decorated with offering tables bearing a sheep and a goose. The relief, Nâgî said, bears the name of kings Taharka and Tanut Amun, the last ruler of the 25th Dynasty.

The relief

In Aswân, meanwhile, an Egyptian mission working to reduce the subterranean water level at Kom Ombo Temple uncovered a marble head of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius.

Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî, head of the ancient Egyptian Sector at the Ministry of Antiquities, told Ahram Online that the head depicts Emperor Aurelius with wavy hair and beard. He describes the head as "unique", saying that statues of the Roman ruler are rare.

Columns

The head is now in the archaeological store, awaiting restoration and preservation work. (Nevine El-Aref, “Rare Osirian temple and marble head of Marcus Aurelius unearthed in Luxor and Aswân”, Ahram Online, April 22, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce deux découvertes à Louqsor et à Aswân », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 22 avril ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « La mission archéologique égyptienne annonce deux découvertes à Louqsor et à Aswân », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 22 avril ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « 2 découvertes archéologiques à Louqsor et à Aswân », Watanî, 22 avril ; “Antiquities Ministry uncovers remains of Osiris compartment in Luxor”, Egypt Independent, April 22).

- -

A v r i l 2 0 1 8



La salle 50 au rez-de-chaussée du Musée égyptien du Caire, à la place Tahrîr, accueille, depuis le 1er avril et jusqu’au 31 mai, une exposition exceptionnelle en son genre et dont le titre est « L’Égypte captée sur verre : Trésors photographiques des archives du ministère des Antiquités ». Cette exposition, inaugurée par Khâlid al-‘Inânî, ministre des Antiquités, comprend 21 négatifs sur verre et 6 panneaux retraçant, à travers des photos, l’historique de quelques sites archéologiques égyptiens. Ces photos ont été prises par des photographes éminents des XIXe et XXe siècles.

En fait, les 21 négatifs sur verre de l’exposition représentent un exemple de la première phase d’un grand projet égypto-anglais qui vise à documenter et conserver tous les négatifs et photos que possède le ministère des Antiquités. Ce projet s’inscrit dans le cadre d’une coopération entre le ministère des Antiquités et le British Museum.

La première phase du projet a commencé en mars 2017. Elle vise à examiner, restaurer et documenter, pendant un an, plus de 20 000 négatifs sur verre pour les transformer en images numériques. « Cette phase, financée par la compagnie anglaise Arcadia Group sous le partenariat du British Museum, sera suivie d’autres, afin de terminer la documentation de plus de 60 000 négatifs de différentes tailles conservés au Centre de documentation des antiquités égyptiennes et au Musée égyptien, place Tahrîr, et de plus de 100 000 anciennes photos », a déclaré le ministre des Antiquités, lors de la cérémonie d’ouverture de l’exposition, accompagné de Hartwig FISCHER, directeur du British Museum.

« Cette exposition montre les plus importants négatifs documentés jusqu’à avril 2018 dans le cadre du projet, et met également la lumière sur les moyens utilisés pour préserver les négatifs sur verre et les photos, tout en présentant au visiteur une collection de vieux appareils photos », souligne Hishâm al-Laythî, directeur général du Centre d’enregistrement et de documentation des antiquités.

En fait, le ministère des Antiquités possède une quantité énorme de photos et de négatifs qui retracent l’historique des fouilles des missions étrangères depuis le XIXe siècle. Cela a commencé avec l’arrivée de photographes étrangers. Fascinés par la culture de l’Orient, ils se sont rendus en Égypte pour documenter la richesse du pays. « Les premières photos de sites égyptiens ont été prises le 7 novembre 1839. Il s’agit des photos du palais Râs al-Tîn à Alexandrie, dont la première partie fut construite en 1811 par le wali Muhammad ‘Alî », dit al-Laythî.

Puis les photographes se sont rendus dans les quatre coins du pays, afin de capturer les sites archéologiques ainsi que la vie quotidienne des gens, et effectuer des portraits des Égyptiens. La plupart de ces photographes tels que l’Italiano-britannique, Antonio BEATO (1860-1906) et l’Américain Gabriel LEKEGIAN (1870-1890) ont choisi de rester en Égypte — au Caire, à Alexandrie, à Port-Saïd ou à Louqsor — et d’ouvrir des studios, profitant de l’augmentation du nombre de touristes.

Avec la fondation du Service des antiquités égyptiennes en 1858, présidé par Auguste MARIETTE, et jusqu’aux années 1980, les découvertes des missions étrangères ont augmenté, ce qui a exigé la documentation de leurs trouvailles. « C’est en 1872 qu’Auguste MARIETTE a ordonné à Hippolyte DÉLIÉ et Émile BÉCHARD de prendre des photos et de créer un album, de 40 planches, du musée de Bûlâq, qui était le premier véritable musée public d’égyptologie », raconte al-Laythî, ajoutant que les directeurs des autres missions ont ensuite commencé eux-mêmes à prendre des photos de leurs sites et de leurs

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


découvertes pour les documenter, à l’image de l’Anglais Flinders PETRIE et de l’Américain George REISNER.

« Les histoires de ces fouilles sont racontées à l’exposition pour les amateurs et les professionnels de photographie et des antiquités », indique Sabâh ‘Abd al-Râziq, directrice du Musée égyptien. « Ce projet ainsi que cette exposition nous informent aussi sur les noms des célèbres photographes étrangers fascinés par les antiquités égyptiennes », conclut al-Laythî. (Nasma Réda, « Quand l’Égypte fascinait les photographes », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 25 avril 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure l’exposition L’Égypte captée sur verre au Musée Égyptien », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 1er avril ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure au Musée Égyptien l’exposition L’Égypte captée sur verre : Trésors photographiques », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 1er avril ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Rahmân, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure au Musée Égyptien l’exposition L’Égypte captée sur verre », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 1er avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure aujourd’hui l’exposition L’Égypte captée sur verre », Sada al-Balad, 1er avril ; ‘Imâd Ishâq, « L’Égypte captée sur verre : Trésors photographiques des archives du ministère des Antiquités », Watanî, 1er avril).

- -

Jeudi 26 avril 2018

A restorer packing Muzhir pulpit

An ambitious scheme to document all the artefacts in the country’s mosques started last year and is an indication of the government’s commitment to preserving the nation’s Islamic

as well as Pharaonic, Coptic and Jewish heritage.

However, the project created controversy this week after the documentation and transfer of a minbar (pulpit) from the Abû Bakr Muzhir Mosque in Cairo to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation (NMEC) for restoration and display.

Opponents claim that the transfer is a step towards the removal of 55 other pulpits from mosques to be stowed in the Ministry of Antiquities’ galleries, which they describe as “irreparable damage and the obliteration of the mosques’ artistic value”.

Supporters say that no more pulpits are going to be relocated and removing the Muzhir pulpit from its original location was the only solution to preventing irreparable damage.

The pulpit before relocation

The Abû Bakr Muzhir Mosque is in the Birgwân Alley in the Gamâliyya district of Islamic Cairo and is hidden under scaffolding erected to consolidate its walls in the aftermath of the 1992 earthquake. The mosque was built by Abû Bakr Muzhir, who was head of the dîwân (government) during the reign of the Mameluke sultan al-Ashraf Abû al-Nasr Qâytbây.

The mosque was built in 1480 CE and has a rectangular shaped madrasa (school) with a wooden ceiling and a shukhsheikha (wooden dome with holes). It has four iwâns (vaulted halls) with marble floors decorated with geometric painted elements. It also has two façades and a unique wooden minbar, gates and cupboards. At the end of the qibla iwân (prayer hall) there is a sabîl (water fountain).

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Azîz, supervisor of the Historic Cairo Rehabilitation Project (HCRP), told Al-Ahram Weekly that the structure of the madrasa and mosque was in a very bad condition, a fact that has led to its closure for more than five years. Cracks have spread in its walls, which are suffering from humidity and decay.

Three parts of the metal decorative elements of the mosque’s wooden gates were stolen a few weeks ago.

As a result, it was necessary to relocate the Muzhir Mosque minbar in an attempt to protect it not only from theft but also from the unstable building and high humidity and heat. “The minbar is unique and is the only Mameluke minbar that still exists with all its architectural and decorative elements,” ‘Abd al-‘Azîz said.

The mosque maintained with scaffolding and its gate that were

subjected to theft

Before its relocation, the minbar was scientifically documented and recorded not only by the ministry’s documentation department but also by the Egyptian Heritage Rescue Foundation (EHRF) that carried out the project on Mameluke pulpits in collaboration with the Historic Cairo Rehabilitation Project.

‘Abd al-Hamîd al-Sharîf, the EHRF chairperson, told the Weekly that the foundation had started a comprehensive project last month to study and document Mameluke pulpits in Cairo in an attempt to create a complete database.

Mameluke pulpits have been targeted by robbers and antiquities traders, he said, a fact that had encouraged the EHRF to help in rescuing these distinguished monuments

through its documentation programme and restoration priority list.

“Mameluke pulpits are the most important not only for their age, but also for their rich significance and historical value. Arabic carpentry reached its summit during the Mameluke era in particular,” al-Sharîf said.

He explained that the project had been carried out in two phases, each lasting for six months. The first aimed at documenting each pulpit scientifically, architecturally and artistically, as well as creating a record of every pulpit’s patterns and inscriptions. Conditions and risk assessments and a priority list would then be written.

The mosque maintained with scaffolding and its gate that were

subjected to theft

One pulpit of the documented ones would be completely restored and three others preliminarily restored and maintained to stabilise their condition. The second phase of the project would then witness the actual work of restoration, he said.

“We succeeded in completing the documentation of the Muzhir pulpit before it was dismantled and carried out a photogrammetry survey of the pulpits in four other mosques,” he said, adding that a risk-assessment had been carried out for 23 other pulpits.

“According to the data, the pulpit can be restored to its original look on condition that its different segments have been properly stored and there are not parts missing,” al-Sharîf said.

The Muzhir pulpit was unique because it is the only pulpit to bear the name of its artist and the day of its fabrication, he said. In order to protect the Mameluke pulpits, it was

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


necessary to document them and to tighten security measures. It was also necessary to consolidate responsibility between the ministries of antiquities and Islamic endowments, he added.

DOCUMENTING MONUMENTS: Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), described the documentation project for artefacts and pulpits inside mosques as “unique” because it was happening for the first time in the history of the Islamic and Coptic Antiquities Sector.

He said the project was a step towards the preservation and protection of these artefacts, which are threatened by antiquities traders. Early last year, seven lanterns from the al-Rifâ‘î Mosque in Cairo were stolen, though then recovered. Nine years ago, the pulpit of the Qânîbây al-Rammâh Mosque in the Citadel area was stolen and still has not been found.

“Documenting the pulpits in mosques is a very important means of protecting them from threats,” he concluded.

Mustafa Amîn, an assistant to the Ministry of Antiquities on technical affairs, said that documenting the pulpits did not mean removing them, but was the most efficient measure for their preservation.

“The ministry’s aim is to keep the pulpits in their original locations and to collaborate with the Ministry of Endowments to increase the safeguarding measures around the mosques as it is the authority in charge,” Amîn told the Weekly.

An employee in the ministry who requested anonymity told the Weekly that before taking the decision to transfer the pulpits the ministry should have found a sufficient area to display them or to replace them with replicas, however.

“I think the beauty of a site comes from its features and historical context,” he told the Weekly, adding that when visiting an ancient Egyptian tomb with the mummy of its owner within its sarcophagus this is more valuable than seeing that mummy in the Egyptian Museum.

“Glass showcases could be a solution to protecting the pulpits instead of transferring them to storehouses,” the source said.

Muhammad ‘Abd al-Latîf, head of the Islamic, Coptic and Jewish Antiquities Sector at the ministry, told the Weekly that the Muzhir pulpit was the only one to be removed and not 55 pulpits as reported in the newspapers.

“The 55 will be documented and the one from Muzhir put on display at the NMEC after restoration,” he said, adding that the Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo has several pulpits, including one from the al-Azhar Mosque and one from the al-Sayyida Ruqayya Mosque.

No pulpits will be transferred from their original locations except in cases of absolute necessity. The situation of each pulpit will be inspected separately to determine its conservation condition and the most efficient method to maintain it. This will be implemented for those pulpits that are in dire need of transfer and their existence in their current location represents a threat to their architecture or decorative elements.

Every pulpit will be documented scientifically after being studied and submitted to the Permanent Committee for Islamic and Coptic Monuments to decide whether to transfer it or preserve it in its original location, he said.

Amîn said that the most important mosques in Egypt were under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Endowments, which is responsible of their safeguarding and protection. Due to the theft of artefacts from the mosques, it was decided to document and record lanterns, pulpits, the benches of reciters, Quran holders and other items, he said.

Târiq al-Murrî, founder of the NGO Diwan for Architecture and Patrimony, said that the pulpits should not be dismantled but removed entirely because the dismantling process could affect their original fabrication and weaken their structure.

He said that tightening security measures in mosques could protect artefacts from being

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


stolen, as could inspecting worshippers on entering and leaving mosques as happened in churches abroad. “Installing monitoring cameras and electronic security system in mosques is another solution,” he said.

al-Murrî said that Islamic Cairo with its mosques, houses, alleys and streets was placed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979 and should be maintained properly. “Any decision concerning Historic Cairo and its monuments and urban features should be discussed before being implemented in order to correctly manage and preserve this hugely distinguished site,” al-Murrî said.

Sâmih ‘Abbâs, a heritage conservator and site-management expert, said that the solution to protecting mosques and artefacts was to transfer responsibility from the ministry of endowments to the ministry of antiquities.

A supporter of transferring the pulpits, ‘Abbâs suggested establishing a museum and replacing pulpits in mosques with replicas because the majority of pulpits were not in an appropriate environment.

‘Abd al-‘Azîz Sâlih, a professor at the Faculty of Archaeology at Cairo University, opposed the relocation of the pulpits and said that it was important they were kept in situ. “The only solution is to implement new security systems in mosques,” he said.

He added, “As the country is trying hard to integrate the economic and educational dimensions of cultural heritage protection to help achieve sustainable development, imprudent decisions and uncalculated steps could undermine its ability to protect its monuments.”

He continued that the artefacts inside mosques were parts of their structure and the only reason that they had been preserved was because they were in religious edifices.

“Removing pulpits from mosques, or tapestries, lanterns, doors and windows, will diminish their historical and archaeological value and will be a great loss to the Egyptian cultural heritage,” Sâlih told the Weekly.

Ibrâhîm al-‘Assâl, a lecturer in Islamic Civilisation at Cordoba University in Spain, objected to the methods used in dismantling and relocating the Muzhir pulpit. He said that in Cordoba special paths had been set up for visitors around historical sites including mosques.

He also suggested enclosing the pulpits inside glass showcases and installing modern ones for prayers. The worst-case scenario would be to remove the pulpits for storage, al-‘Assâl concluded. (Nevine El-Aref, “Pulpit controversies”, Al-Ahram Weekly, April 26, 2018. Voir également Basant Gamîl, « Des plasticiens à propos de la crise du transfert des minbars : Gommage de l’identité égyptienne sous prétexte de la sauvegarder », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 23 avril ; Muhammad Baghdâdî, « Les minbars historiques : des trésors retenues sous les verrous », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 29 avril).

- -

Dimanche 29 avril 2018

Fire-fighters extinguished a blaze on Sunday on the scaffolding outside the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) overlooking the Gîza Plateau. The fire was quickly extinguished, according to eyewitnesses, with no casualties reported and no damage to the museum itself. The GEM is currently under construction, with scaffolding positioned outside several buildings.

The Ministry of Antiquities is to publish a detailed report on the causes of the blaze and the successful response of emergency services. (Nevine El-Aref, “Fire-fighters

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


extinguish blaze on scaffolding at Grand Egyptian Museum”, Ahram Online, April 29, 2018. Voir également Tuhâmî al-Bindârî, « Le Parquet administratif ouvre une enquête sur l’incendie du GEM », al-Tahrîr, 29 avril ; « Le Premier ministre examine avec le ministre de l’Archéologie les conséquences de l’incendie du GEM », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 29 avril ; MENA, « Le Procureur général ordonne l’ouverture d’une instruction judiciaire sur l’incendie du GEM », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 29 avril ; Sahar Zahrân, « Le Parquet administratif ouvre une enquête sur l’incendie du GEM », al-Ahrâm, 29 avril ; Ahmad Mansûr, « L’incendie des échafaudages métalliques du GEM est éloigné des laboratoires de restauration », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 29 avril ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Incendie au projet du GEM », Watanî, 29 avril).

- -

The Ministry of Antiquities announced on Saturday the unveiling of a royal celebrations hall dating back to the Ramses era at Matariyya district, as part of an archaeological excavation carried out by the ‘Ayn Shams University mission.

Headed by Mamdûh al-Damâtî, the unearthed hall is considered “the first of its kind” in the New Kingdom era, as it’s where the King celebrated royal celebrations such as the Jubilee feast.

This indicates that such celebrations were held in the Re Temple at this specific area, al-Damâtî said, explaining that the hall was unearthed by excavation members inside the palace used to host royal celebrations.

“It was discovered under the soft bricks buildings and commercial residential area which date back to the third transition period,

especially the era of the families of the twenty-second and twenty-third,” al-Damâtî said.

An important collection of brick walls of a multi-story building was also uncovered, al-Damâtî said in ministry statement on Saturday, noting that it reveals the three phases of construction dating back to the Ramses era.

The unearthed collections include the main building, a layer of the third transition era and the late era, as well as the royal celebrations hall, which has a rectangular floor of 2.90 m× 1.90 m, consisting of limestone tiles, rising 80 cm from the ground.

The ‘Ayn Shams University expedition also unearthed important artifacts, including five stone blocks carved from the reign of King Ramses II, a painting of the high priests of the Sun Prince Nept Ma Raa, as well as some pottery figures dating back to the 27th Dynasty, one of which was a small dog-shaped statue.

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


al-Damâtî added that one of the most important pieces discovered is a human amulet with a human head for a person named Thi from the Roman era.

“The lower part of a statue for a priest from the Ramses era was also revealed in the digging. It is made of Alabaster rising 20 centimetres off the ground, on a base of red porphyry stone,” al-Damâtî described. (“Egypt unearths royal celebrations hall dating back to Ramses era at Matariyya”, Egypt Independent, April 29, 2018. Voir également Wafâ’ Yahya, « al-Damâtî annonce la découverte d’une chapelle royale d’époque ramesside à Matariyya », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 28 avril ; Islâm ‘Abd al-Ma‘bûd, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte d’une chapelle royale d’époque ramesside à Matariyya », al-Shurûq, 28 avril).

- -

While pulling groundwater around the Kom Ombo temple in Aswân to reduce its level, an Egyptian archaeological expedition discovered a marble head of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, the last of the so-called Five Good Emperors.

Chief of the Aswân and Nubia Archaeological site ‘Abd al-Mun‘im Sa‘îd said that the head of the statue dates back to 160 to 182 AD.

The emperor ruled from 161-180 AD and his passing is believed to have signalled the beginning of the end for the Western Roman Empire.

The features of the emperor clearly appear in the statue’s head, especially his beard and thick wavy hair.

The dimensions of the statue are 40 cm, 33 cm with a thickness of 34 cm. It was found during the cleaning process of a well close to the temple with a depth of 15 meters. It is believed that it has been used in gauge reading of the Nile River in ancient times.

“The head is a unique piece of the emperor,” said Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî, chief of the Ancient Egyptian Monuments Sector at the Ministry of Antiquities, according to a press statement.

The mission also discovered a part of another statue, which has yet to be identified. It is made of sandstone with a missing head and lower parts of the feet. (Hend El-Behary, “Egyptian expedition discovers marble head of Roman Emperor in Aswân”, Egypt Independent, April 29, 2018).

- -

No one was harmed and no artefacts were damaged in the fire that engulfed part of the scaffolding outside the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) overlooking the Gîza Plateau earlier on Sunday, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities told Ahram Online.

One hour after the fire broke out, the museum’s fire station, with aid from Civilian Security fire trucks, succeeded in extinguishing the flames, Wazîrî said.

The Minister of Antiquities, the Governor of Cairo and the Head of the Armed Forces Engineering Authority have visited the site to inspect the scene.

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the blaze.

The GEM is currently under construction, with scaffolding positioned outside several buildings. (Nevine El-Aref, “No one hurt, no artefacts damaged in scaffolding fire outside Grand Egyptian Museum: Ministry”, Ahram Online, April 29, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Communiqué du ministère de l’Archéologie sur l’incendie du GEM : aucun danger ni dégât », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 29 avril).

- -

The Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities received eight ancient Islamic artefacts that have been confiscated at Badr harbour last October.

The pieces, which were confiscated during a smuggling attempt to Lebanon, have been put on display in the Islamic Art museum in Bâb al-Khalq, Cairo, according to Ministry of Antiquities Facebook page.

Head of Central Administration of Archaeological Units in Ports Ahmad al-Râwî said that the confiscated pieces include six ceramic artefacts that date back to the nineteenth century, including a vase, a tea set and two metal punnets on which King Fârûq’s crest engraved.

Head of Antiquities department in Customs Mamdûh Abû Nar announced that he has formed a specialized committee tasked with receiving the pieces and placing them in the Islamic Art Museum till investigations are concluded.

Smuggling antiquities from Egypt has been a problem for a long time. In December 2017, Parliament’s Culture and Media Committee approved a bill intensifying the penalty for smuggling antiquities to life imprisonment and a fine up to LE 10 million ($560,100).

Egypt has retrieved smuggled antiquities from many countries. In March 2018, Egypt received a coffin lid from Kuwait after it was discovered inside of a sofa at Kuwait Airways cargo terminal. However, the problem of smuggling antiquities began much earlier in history. In April 2018, Egypt received remnants of a mummy that has been smuggled to the US in 1927. (Farah Tawfek, “Egypt foils smuggling attempt of 8 ancient Islamic artefacts to Lebanon”, Egypt Independent, April 29, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie saisie 8 pièces antiques avant leur exportation illicite vers le Liban », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 28 avril ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie récupère 8 pièces archéologiques saisies dans le port de Badr », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 28 avril ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie récupère 8 pièces saisies dans le port de Badr », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 28 avril ; Islâm ‘Abd al-Ma‘bûd, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie saisie 8 pièces avant leur exportation illicite vers le Liban », al-Shurûq, 28 avril ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie récupère 8 pièces archéologiques saisies dans le port de Badr », Watanî, 28 avril).

- -

Lundi 30 avril 2018

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves LE DRIAN embarked on a tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) site on Sunday evening,

A v r i l 2 0 1 8


accompanied by his wife and several Egyptian antiquities officials. LE DRIAN made the tour of the site overlooking the Gîza Plateau as part of his official visit to Cairo that started on Saturday night.

The French couple visited the GEM’s panorama area, as well as the conservation centre, and the atrium where the colossus of King Ramses II is on display along with the Meneptah column. Târiq Tawfîq, supervisor general of the GEM, said that LE DRIAN was impressed by the scale of the buildings, as well as the gigantic colossus of King Ramses II.

The French minister said the museum would be one of the world’s most distinguished archaeological institutions, according to Tawfîq. The minister also toured

the construction site, where work is ongoing ahead of the museum’s partial opening, planned for later this year. (Nevine El-Aref, “French foreign minister visits Grand Egyptian Museum site”, Ahram Online, April 30, 2018. Voir également Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Le Premier ministre français visite le GEM », Watanî, 29 avril ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le GEM accueille le Premier ministre français », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 29 avril).

-

- -

-


V – MAI 2018

Mardi 1er mai 2018

La directrice du Département des antiquités de Chypre, Dr Marina SOLOMIDOU-IERONYMIDOU, a remis à l’Égypte 14 antiquités qui avaient été illégalement sorties du pays à la fin des années 1980 et ont été saisies dans la ville de Nicosie. Dans un communiqué, le ministre égyptien de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al-‘Inânî, s’est félicité de cette restitution et a remercié les autorités chypriotes pour leur coopération ainsi que pour les efforts soutenus qu’elles ont déployés dans ce dossier.

Le directeur général des antiquités restituées, Sha‘bân ‘Abd al-Gawwâd, a révélé que les pièces archéologiques récupérées consistent en un vase en albâtre, sur lequel est inscrit le nom du roi Ramsès II, avec ses deux titres : Ousirmaâtrê Setepenrê et Ramessou Meryamon. Ont en outre été récupérées 13 amulettes de différentes formes, tailles et matériaux, y compris des amulettes sous la forme de certaines déesses (Sekhmet, Isis et Neith) et d’autres sous la forme de certains symboles sacrés (œil Oudjat, pilier Djed).

Ces pièces antiques sont arrivées à Chypre en 1986 et, en coordination avec les ministères des Affaires étrangères et de la Justice, ainsi que le Bureau de la coopération internationale, une commission rogatoire a été envoyée à l’État de Chypre, pour faire valoir les droits de l’Égypte à récupérer ces pièces. (Samar al-Naggâr, « L’Égypte récupère 14 pièces archéologiques volées à Chypre », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 1er mai 2018. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la récupération de 14 pièces archéologiques volées à Chypre », Sada al-Balad, 1er mai ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Chypre restitue à l’Égypte 14 pièces archéologiques volées depuis les années 1980 », Watanî, 1er mai).

- -

Mercredi 2 mai 2018

Le président du Département des projets, Wa‘d Abû al-‘Ilâ, a annoncé la poursuite des travaux de réaménagement de la zone archéologique d’Abydos et de la baisse du niveau des eaux souterraines sous l’Osireion. Environ 98 % des travaux de réaménagement sont dores et déjà achevés pour un coût de 40 043 140 livres égyptiennes. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie achève 98 % des travaux de réaménagement d’Abydos pour un coût de 40 millions L.E. », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 2 mai 2018).

- -

Le président du Département des projets, Wa‘d Abû al-‘Ilâ, a annoncé qu’un devis descriptif est en cours d’élaboration, en vue de l’inauguration partielle du musée archéologique de Sharm al-Shaykh. Après dix réunions tenues au sein du ministère de l’Archéologie, la décision a été prise d’ouvrir deux salles du musée, le bâtiment administratif, ainsi que des cafétérias, des bazars et des restaurants. Cette inauguration partielle contribuera à rehausser les revenus du ministère, ce qui permettra d’accélérer l’ouverture totale du musée prochainement. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie décide d’ouvrir partiellement le musée de Sharm al-Shaykh », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 2 mai 2018).

- -

Jeudi 3 mai 2018

Almost a week after its transfer from its original location in the Abû Bakr Muzhir Mosque in the Birgwân Alley in the Gamâliyya district of Islamic Cairo, the Abû Bakr Muzhir’s pulpit is now at its new display in the National

M a i 2 0 1 8


Museum of Egyptian Civilisation (NMEC) in the Cairo district of Fustât.

The pulpit was subjected to restoration at the Citadel Laboratory for Wooden Artefacts before its second transfer to the NMEC under the supervision of the Projects Department and the Department of Maintenance and Restoration of the Ministry of Antiquities.

Restorers at the NMEC

Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), who was on site following the reassembling of the pulpit, said that no other such pulpits would be transferred from mosques, except those in dire need like the Muzhir pulpit that was threatened by the high level of subterranean water inside the mosque and the instability of the mosque’s structure.

Gharîb Sunbul, head of Maintenance and Restoration at the ministry, said the relocation was necessary because the pulpit was not only suffering from the high level of ground water due to heavy rain and a weak drainage system, but some parts of its decoration and wooden body were suffering from biological infection.

According to scientific analyses, parts of the pulpit were infested with insects, but restorers had managed to treat these parts and the pulpit was now safe and sound.

Sunbul said that the restoration of the pulpit was carried out according to international standards and it was now protected and preserved at the NMEC. Wazîrî called on members of the public to visit the NMEC in order to see this distinguished Mameluke pulpit.

Early last week, the relocation of the pulpit from its original location in the mosque was

subject to a ferocious controversy. Opponents claimed that the transfer was a step towards the removal of 55 other pulpits from mosques to be stowed in the Ministry of Antiquities’ galleries, which they described as “irreparable damage and the obliteration of the mosques’ artistic value”.

Supporters said that no more pulpits would be relocated and removing the Muzhir pulpit from its original location was the only solution to prevent irreparable damage.

The pulpit after restoration and reassembling

The pulpit belongs to a mosque built by Abû Bakr Muzhir, head of the dîwân (government) during the reign of the Mameluke sultan al-Ashraf Abû al-Nasr Qâytbây.

The mosque was built in 1480 CE and has a rectangular shaped madrasa (school) with a wooden ceiling and a shukhsheikha (wooden dome with holes). It has four iwâns (vaulted halls) with marble floors decorated with geometric painted elements. It also has two façades and a unique wooden minbar, gates and cupboards. At the end of the qibla iwân (prayer hall) there is a sabîl (water fountain).

Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Azîz, supervisor of the Historic Cairo Conservation Project, told Al-Ahram Weekly that the structure of the madrasa and mosque was in a very bad condition, a fact that has led to its closure for more than five years. Cracks have spread in its walls, which are suffering from humidity and decay.

Three parts of the metal decorative elements of the mosque’s wooden gates were stolen a few weeks ago.

M a i 2 0 1 8


As a result, it was necessary to relocate the Muzhir Mosque’s minbar (pulpit) in an attempt to protect it not only from theft but also from the unstable building and high humidity and heat. “The minbar is unique and is the only Mameluke minbar that still exists with all its architectural and decorative elements intact,” ‘Abd al-‘Azîz said. (Nevine El-Aref, “From mosque to museum”, Al-Ahram Weekly, May 3, 2018. Voir également Doaa Elhami, « Cacher les richesses pour les protéger », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 2 mai ; Mahmûd Ismâ‘îl, « Bataille entre les ministères de l’Archéologie et du Waqfs autour de 55 minbars », al-Wafd, 26 mai).

- -

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina has established a new Egyptology centre in Cairo’s Smart Village in honour of former minister of antiquities Zâhî Hawwâs.

The centre is part of the Bibliotheca’s role in documenting Egyptian scientists who have served the world through their achievements. It is one of the first projects adopted by Director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina Mustafa al-Fiqî in the light of the role played by Hawwâs around the world through his public lectures and writings.

In a statement, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina explained that the new centre would encompass research, education, and training departments, and organise archaeological, historical, and educational workshops, as well as offer scholarships to students working on scientific research.

It will make Hawwâs Awards to the best archaeological research or archaeologist from the Ministry of Antiquities.

The centre is named after Zâhî Hawwâs due to his efforts in the field of archaeology and the important role he has played locally, regionally and internationally with his books and lectures that have enriched Egyptology studies worldwide.

The centre will open its doors with its first event scheduled for Monday, when Hawwâs will meet with children at the Gîza Pyramids who are passionate about history and discuss the building of the Pyramids and other aspects of Egypt’s long history.

Hawwâs told Al-Ahram Weekly that the centre would be a venue for young Egyptologists, as well as children and young people in general who have passion for Egypt’s heritage and history. “Through a series of lectures, workshops and events, the centre aims at raising awareness about Egypt’s cultural heritage and promotes public engagement at various historical sites,” Hawwâs said.

He continued that it would provide a fruitful programme of events both locally and internationally.

On the international level, the programme will include a lecture three times a month by Skype to school students in the United States, Australia and Japan. This lecture will also be available in European countries such as Italy.

An Internet training course to teach hieroglyphics online is also to be provided to children and adults, as well as another course to teach ancient Egyptian history. A series of courses on Egypt’s history, the most important discoveries that have influenced history, and the top 10 discoveries made in Egypt, such as the discovery of the golden mummies in the Bahariyya Oasis and the workmen’s cemetery on the Gîza Plateau, will be provided online.

Hawwâs said that at the local level the centre has another programme. In collaboration with the Ministry of Education, art teachers in Egyptian schools will teach their pupils how to draw the hieroglyphic alphabet starting next week.

In collaboration with Nahdat Misr Publishers, a collection of books for children

M a i 2 0 1 8


on the Ancient Egyptian civilisation will be printed to teach children how the Ancient Egyptians ruled with peace and justice and the greatness of their civilisation.

Among these books, Hawwâs said, was a book on the boy-king Tutankhamun entitled A Journey with the Boy King that would be produced in both Arabic and English.

Other books on art, science, medicine and engineering will be produced and distributed among students of universities in Egypt.

“A full schedule has been drawn up to raise the students’ awareness of the Ancient Egyptian civilisation,” Hawwâs pointed out, adding that this had been started with a series of lectures on history and Ancient Egyptian civilisation in the Cairo, Zaqâzîq, Damietta, Hilwân and 6 October universities.

A three-volume encyclopaedia of Ancient Egyptian civilisation is to be produced in Arabic and English to highlight topics such as love, language, and kings and queens in Ancient Egypt. “The encyclopaedia is written by renowned Egyptologists and archaeologists,” Hawwâs said.

During the ceremony that will be held tonight at the Egyptian Museum to launch the new centre, the Ministry of Antiquities will honour Hawwâs by renaming the Saqqâra Training Centre the Hawwâs Saqqâra Training Centre. (Nevine El-Aref, “Zâhî Hawwâs Centre launched”, Al-Ahram Weekly, May 3, 2018. Voir également « Des ministres, des hommes politiques et des artistes assistent à l’inauguration du Centre égyptologique Zâhî Hawwâs », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 3 mai ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie : Le monde entier aime Zâhî Hawwâs », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 3 mai ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Inauguration du Centre égyptologique Zâhî Hawwâs en présence de ministres et d’artistes », Sada al-Balad, 3 mai).

- -

The Ministry of Antiquities is documenting its extensive photographic archives for the first time.

The archives of the Egyptian Museum and of the Ministry of Culture’s Documentation Centre each hold a collection of about 25,000 glass photographic negatives spanning the years from the 1860s to the 1950s.

They include works by famous photographers like Antonio BEATO (active 1860-1906) and Gabriel LEKEGIAN (active 1870-1890), as well as works by many unnamed photographers who documented excavations, ancient monuments, artefacts, people and places at the time.

In an attempt to preserve and conserve these glass negatives for the future, the Ministry of Antiquities in collaboration with the British Museum in London has carried out a yearlong documentation project entitled “Glass Negative Digitisation and Preservation”. The project started in March 2017 and ran until April 2018 and was supported by Arcadia, a charitable fund.

Hishâm al-Laythî, director of the ministry’s Documentation Centre, described the project as “very important” because it preserved one of the ministry’s rare archives.

He said that the project had allowed the cleaning, rehousing, cataloguing, digitisation and preliminary conservation of over 15,000 glass plate negatives to date. These will be made available online for researchers and the public to explore.

“All of this work has been undertaken by ministry staff, trained in best practices and provided with the necessary equipment, and this will ensure that further collections can be preserved in similar ways,” al-Laythî said.

An exhibition to highlight the work was inaugurated at the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr

M a i 2 0 1 8


Square, putting on show some of the archive collection.

al-Laythî told Al-Ahram Weekly that with the invention of photography in Paris in 1839, its promoters described how it would be possible to copy the hieroglyphs on temples and tombs in Egypt. A few months later, in November 1839, the Frenchmen Horace VERNET and Frederic GOUPIL-FESQUET captured the first known photograph taken in Egypt, of the Râs al-Tîn Palace in Alexandria.

Many other photographers followed in their footsteps, travelling up and down the country to photograph monuments, landscapes and the people that inhabited them. Some of them stayed and opened photography studios in Cairo, Alexandria, Port Said and Luxor, as photographic souvenir albums became popular amongst the growing number of tourists.

The Egyptian Antiquities Service was founded in 1858, and by the 1880s archaeologists were carrying out excavations for the service all over the country. For many of them, photography became fundamental in documenting their work and the artefacts they uncovered.

Some cooperated with well-established photographers such as Hypolite DÉLIE and Emile BÉCHARD, who were hired by director of the Egyptian Museum Auguste MARIETTE to produce the Album du Musée Boulaq in 1872, the first catalogue of this museum’s collections.

Other archaeologists like Flinders PETRIE and George REISNER, practised photography themselves and developed techniques adapted to the abundance of sand and sun facing excavations in Egypt.

“The result is thousands of images of Egypt as it was in the period from the 1840s onwards,” al-Laythî said, adding that many of them are preserved on glass negatives housed in the Egyptian Museum and in the archives of the Ministry of Antiquities.

The ministry has a unique documentary archive containing over 60,000 glass negatives of different sizes in its Documentation Centre

and at the Egyptian Museum, and it has more than 100,000 prints.

To highlight this unique archive, the exhibition, including 21 glass negatives and six graphic panels telling the history of photography, is on display at the Egyptian Museum for the next two months.

RAWING WITH LIGHT: Glass negatives were the standard method of capturing photographs from the 1850s until about 1940, and two different processes produced the negatives on display: the wet plate and the dry plate.

The first required the photographer to cut a glass plate to the size needed and cover it with a light-sensitive liquid mixture. This had to remain wet while it was exposed in the camera and had to be developed immediately after exposure. This meant that photographers always had to bring a darkroom with them wherever they went, something that was very difficult on archaeological sites.

The invention of the dry plate process in 1871 made photography easier as plates could now be bought already cut to standard sizes and, most importantly, prepared with a dry light-sensitive surface. The plate could now, as it was already dry, be exposed at any time, and development could wait until the photographer returned from the field.

Positive prints of the developed negatives were made by placing a paper prepared with light-sensitive chemicals on the negative and exposing it to the sun.

Glass plate negatives fell out of use with the development of film photography in the 1940s, which was considerably cheaper and more portable. Digital photography has today almost entirely replaced film photography in museum and archaeological work.

Glass negatives are extremely fragile and require careful handling to preserve them for future generations. They need to be kept in special enclosures and stored in a stable environment.

Broken and damaged glass negatives can be repaired and preserved in several ways,

M a i 2 0 1 8


depending on their condition and the aim of the treatment. One way is to place the negative in a support to hold the broken pieces and then cover it with cardboard, to ensure it can be both stored safely and easily accessed.

Photographic documentation, or digitisation, allows the glass negatives to be researched and viewed without handling the delicate originals. With broken or damaged negatives, the image can also be repaired or re-joined digitally.

The earliest photographs in the Egyptian Museum’s collections displayed in the exhibition date to the 1870s and were taken in their first home of the Boulaq Museum. A photographic studio was later set up in the current museum and remains in use today.

In the nearly 150 years since then, photographers have been employed to document both artefacts that are displayed in the museum and new artefacts as they arrive. These images are used in catalogues, popular publications and merchandise.

Museum photographers have also documented other aspects of the museum’s history: the changing views of the building and the gardens, VIP visits, staff and their activities, and changing displays. In doing so, they have also unintentionally recorded changes in signage and decorative schemes within the historic building that was opened in 1902.

The glass negatives thus capture memories of the museum: the antiquities, exhibitions, historical and cultural events, and the people who participated in making this history.

Photographers working in Egypt at the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th centuries did not only photograph ancient monuments. They also captured scenes of everyday life across bustling cities and quiet rural areas. Carrying with them large cameras, with the sun as their only light source, each photograph seems to have been taken with the aim to tell a story.

Thanks to these photographs, Egypt’s history becomes about more than monuments as they provide a window to the past through

which we can observe streets, clothes, means of transportation, professions, shops, trades, traditions and customs, allowing us to compare these with the scenes of life today. (“Documenting Egypt through photographs”, Al-Ahram Weekly, May 3, 2018).

- -

Vendredi 4 mai 2018

M.M., fonctionnaire âgé de 37 ans a été arrêté en possession de 105 pièces archéologiques. La perquisition de son domicile, situé à Banî Mazâr dans le gouvernorat d’al-Minyâ, a permis la saisie de statuettes, de scarabées et de pièces de monnaies d’époque pharaonique. Une enquête judiciaire est ouverte. (Muhammad al-Zahrâwî, « Arrestation à Minyâ d’un fonctionnaire en possession de 105 pièces antiques », al-Tahrîr, 4 mai 2018).

- -

Le Syndicat des Guides touristiques à Louqsor a mis en garde contre l’annulation du projet du troisième autopont censé enjamber le dromos. Dans un communiqué adressé aujourd’hui au Premier ministre, à la ministre du Tourisme et au gouverneur de Louqsor, le Syndicat a appelé à la construction de cet autopont au lieu prévu, afin d’améliorer la circulation des bus touristiques entre les différents sites archéologiques de la ville.

L’Office de tourisme de Louqsor avait révélé l’intention des agences de voyage de retirer le temple de Louqsor de leurs circuits touristiques à partir de juillet 2018, à cause des grandes difficultés rencontrées par les autocars de tourisme dans leur déplacement entre les temples de Karnak et de Louqsor. (Muhammad al-Samkûrî, « Le Syndicat des Guides touristiques à Louqsor met en garde contre l’annulation du troisième autopont au-dessus du dromos », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 4 mai 2018. Voir également Muhammad al-Samkûrî, « La sédition du dromos », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 7 mai).

- -

M a i 2 0 1 8


Samedi 5 mai 2018

al-‘Inânî with media at the GEM

Egyptian Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî escorted members of the media on a tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Gîza to show that the fire that broke out at the museum last week did little damage to the museum.

The visit included a tour of the museum buildings as well as the display of the King Ramses II colossus and artefacts at the GEM’s conservation centre.

Last Sunday, a minor fire broke out on the wooden scaffolding on the museum’s rear façade.

No one was harmed and no artefacts were damaged in the fire.

One hour after the fire broke out, the museum’s fire station, with aid from Civilian Security fire trucks, succeeded in extinguishing the flames, Mustafa Wazîrî Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities said at the time.

An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the blaze. The GEM is currently under construction, with scaffolding positioned outside several buildings.

The museum is being built to house antiquities from ancient Egypt, including many items currently held at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo’s Tahrîr Square. A partial opening is planned for later this year. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egyptian antiquities minister assures that last week’s fire did little damage to Grand Egyptian Museum”, Ahram Online, May 5, 2018. Voir également Nasma Réda, « Un incendie vite maîtrisé au Grand Musée Égyptien de Gîza », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 2

mai ; Mahmûd ‘Uthmân, « Le Parquet : L’incendie du GEM est dû à l’utilisation de la scie circulaire », al-Tahrîr, 2 mai ; Ahmad Shalabî, « Le Parquet : L’incendie du GEM est dû aux étincelles d’une scie circulaire », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 2 mai ; Nâgî al-Girgâwî, « L’incendie du GEM est provoqué par des étincelles lors des installations de la climatisation centrale », al-Ahrâm, 3 mai ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie : Les travaux du GEM n’ont pas été affectés par l’incendie des échafaudages », Sada al-Balad, 5 mai).

- -

Egyptian Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî has inaugurated the 4th International Tutankhamun GEM Conference, entitled “Tutankhamun: Weapons and Statues,” headed by Fâyza Haykal, professor of Egyptology at the American University in Cairo.

The two-day conference aims at contributing to final preparations for the display of the Tutankhamun collection of artefacts at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM).

During the opening ceremony of the conference, al-‘Inânî said that the ministry is moving forward with the planned soft opening of the GEM.

“Until now, 70 per cent of the buildings have been realised and a collection of 43,257 artefacts has been transferred to the GEM as well as another 4,549 objects from the Tutankhamun collection.”

The conference will see a number of lectures delivered by international scholars and researchers discussing the latest technology used in displaying and restoring historical artefacts, including military equipment.

Former Minister of Antiquities Zâhî Hawwâs delivered a lecture on the discovery of Tutankhamun tomb in 1922 and the latest scientific studies being conducted on the boy king’s mummy to know his lineage and the real reason of his death. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egypt’s antiquities minister opens

M a i 2 0 1 8


Tutankhamun conference”, Ahram Online, May 5, 2018. Voir également Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Khâlid al-‘Inânî inaugure un congrès international sur Toutankhamon », Watanî, 5 mai).

- -

Military leave of the chariot at the citadel of Salâh al-Dîn

Completing a collection of 5,200 Tutankhamun artefacts, the Egyptian Ministry of Defence has offered the Ministry of Antiquities the sixth and last chariot of the boy king.

Zaydân during the packing of the chariot

In a gala ceremony, Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî received the sixth and last chariot of Tutankhamun at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). The others were previously transferred to the GEM’s laboratory centre.

al-‘Inânî said that the chariot was discovered in 1922 in Tutankhamun’s tomb. He described the GEM as “a gift” from Egypt to the world. He also thanked the Ministry of Defence for offering the chariot to the GEM and its transport from the Military Museum at Salâh al-Dîn Citadel to the GEM.

"It is the first time to display the six chariots together since their discovery in 1922," Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, told Ahram

Online, adding that it took nine years to assemble and restore the chariots upon their discovery.

This particular chariot was sent to the Military Museum in 1987.

Îsa Zaydân, head of restoration at the GEM, said the chariot was padded with special materials to absorb any vibrations during transportation. State-of-the-art technology and modern scientific techniques were used in order to guarantee the safe lifting and moving of the chariot from its display at the Military Museum. (Nevine El-Aref, “Last chariot of the boy king Tutankhamun arrives safely to GEM”, Ahram Online, May 5, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le dernier char de Toutankhamon arrive aux laboratoires de restauration du GEM », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 5 mai ; Dalia Farouq, « Toutankhamon, l’âme du Grand Musée Égyptien », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 9 mai).

- -

Dimanche 6 mai 2018

Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî announced that the Grand Egyptian Museum is 70 percent complete, adding that 43 thousand 275 pieces have already been transferred to the museum.

During his speech in the Fourth International Tutankhamen Conference, which took place on Saturday, al-‘Inânî marvelled at the progress, “Two years ago, the progress in the museum was less than 20 percent,” al-‘Inânî said, “Today, it is over 70 percent complete.”

al-‘Inânî added that 4,579 pieces of a total of 5 thousand artefacts from the Tutankhamen collection have already been transferred to the Grand Museum, adding that it will be a destination for the world’s researchers.

“The remaining pieces for the Tutankhamen collection will remain at the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr so that tourists coming to Egypt at the present can find something to view,” al-‘Inânî reasoned.

M a i 2 0 1 8


“When the final Tutankhamen piece gets transferred this November, we will replace it by pieces such as Sân al-Hagar, Youya and Touya and other treasures from the storage, in addition to the antiquities that Egypt has restored from abroad. We will have treasures to impress the world. The Tahrîr museum will be in even a better shape than it used to be.” (Farah Tawfeek, “More than 43 thousand artefacts transferred to Grand Egyptian Museum so far: Antiquities Minister”, Egypt Independent, May 6, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le GEM réceptionne 180 nouvelles pièces archéologiques », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 16 mai ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le GEM réceptionne 180 pièces archéologiques de Gîza et du Musée Égyptien », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 16 mai ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Transfert de nouvelles pièces archéologiques de Gîza et du Musée Égyptien vers le GEM », al-Ahrâm, 17 mai).

- -

Mardi 8 mai 2018

The entrance of the tomb

Professor of Egyptology at Cairo University ‘Ulâ al-‘Agîzî has announced the discovery of an important tomb belonging to the great Ramses II era General Iwrkhy in Saqqâra, in a speech delivered to attendees of the Faculty of Archaeology Prom 2017.

The tomb was discovered in the New Kingdom necropolis south of the Causeway of King Unas in Saqqâra, during the last excavation season in 2017/2018.

al-‘Agîzî, head of the mission that uncovered the tomb, said it most likely dates to the reigns of both Sethi I and Ramses II. The site has yet to be fully excavated, but has already provided a wealth of material testifying to the high status of its owner and his family.

The tomb belongs to General and High Steward of the estates of Ramses II in the Domain of Amun. His name is inscribed on the tomb along with that of his son Yuppa and grandson Hatiay — the latter occupying a significant position in the inscriptions on the walls still in place.

Iwrkhy began his military career under King Sethi I and reached the highest positions in Egyptian court during the reign of Ramses II. His tomb appears to mimic the style of contemporary tombs in the area, which include a forecourt, statue room with adjacent plastered vaulted storehouses, peristyle court and western chapels (which have yet to be excavated), al-‘Agîzî said.

Archaeologists believe the general came to Egypt as a foreigner, one of many who settled here and managed to reach high positions in the court of the New Kingdom.

The scenes that remain on the walls of the statue room and on blocks found buried in the sand show a number of unusual scenes, many related to Iwrkhy’s military career, and foreign relations with neighbouring countries. These include an image of moored boats unloading Canaanite wine jars.

One block, most likely detached from the northern wall, shows an exceptional scene of an infantry unit and charioteers crossing a waterway with crocodiles. Preliminary studies

M a i 2 0 1 8


of the scene determined that its fortified walls represent the eastern borders of Egypt.

The scene has only one parallel, depicted on the outer north wall of the hypostyle court of Karnak temple in Thebes. The scene shows Sethi I coming back from a victorious campaign against the Shasu Bedouins, entering Egypt by the same waterway with crocodiles.

The remains of such fortified walls were recently discovered by archaeologist Muhammad ‘Abd al-Maqsûd and his team on the site known as Tell Habwa I and II on the Pelusian branch of the Nile in Eastern Qantara, North Sinai.

Discoveries in the Saqqâra tomb also show signs of active daily life in this garrison, including wine cellars and livestock depicted on the walls.

The scenes of the high steward’s tomb are quite exceptional, with artistic features characteristic of the time of Sethi I and Ramses II. This indicates that the tomb was constructed over a number of phases.

The prominence of the names of Iwrkhy’s family — Yuppa and Hatiay — suggests that this may have been a family tomb. Further excavation of the sanctuary and shaft are needed to confirm this. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egypt uncovers tomb of great Ramses II era general in Saqqâra”, Ahram Online, May 8, 2018. Voir également « Nouvelle découverte archéologique à Saqqâra », al-Shurûq, 8 mai ; « Découverte d’une grande tombe à Saqqâra », al-Tahrîr, 8 mai ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Nouvelle découverte archéologique à Saqqâra », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 8 mai ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Nouvelle découverte archéologique de la mission de l’université du Caire à Saqqâra », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 8 mai ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Mise au jour de la tombe du chef de l’armée de Ramsès II », al-Ahrâm, 9 mai ; “Tomb of Ramses II’s top army general discovered in Saqqâra”, Egypt Independent, May 9 ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Découverte de la tombe du chef de l’armée sous le règne de Ramsès II », Watanî, 9 mai ; Doaa Elhami, « Tombe du général Iorkhi, découverte à Saqqâra », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 23 mai).

- -

Mercredi 9 mai 2018

Il suffit de trouver la mosquée Ahmad Ibn Tûlûn, avec son exceptionnel minaret en spirale, rue al-Salîba, dans le quartier de Sayyida Zaynab au Caire, pour atteindre le musée Gayer Anderson qui y est accolé. Connu également sous le nom de Bayt al-Kiridliyya (la maison de la Crétoise), ce musée, composé de deux maisons ottomanes, a célébré, le 3 avril, les 75 ans de son inauguration officielle. Les festivités sont marquées par l’exposition « Les chefs-d’œuvre de la Crétoise », qui continue jusqu’à la fin du mois de juin prochain. « Nous avons sélectionné 25 joyaux du musée et les avons mis en exergue en les présentant dans l’exposition organisée pour cette occasion », indique la directrice du musée, Mirvat ‘Izzat.

Ces pièces reflètent la richesse et la variété de la collection islamique du musée. À première vue, l’exposition, qui se trouve dans une étroite pièce au rez-de-chaussée, donne

M a i 2 0 1 8


une impression modeste. Néanmoins, elle est très riche grâce aux fiches apposées dans les vitrines et aux explications données par les inspecteurs du musée, qui font le tour avec les visiteurs. L’exposition se compose de quatre vitrines, dont chacune est consacrée à des pièces en une matière donnée : métaux, bois, porcelaine et verre.

Le visiteur peut ainsi contempler, dans la vitrine des métaux, deux pistolets et un fusil incrustés d’or et d’argent. Il y trouve aussi une épée en fer ayant appartenu au sultan ottoman Bayezid Ier (1389-1402) et dont le manche est incrusté de calligraphies en or et en argent. Son fourreau est en cuivre de crocodile. La directrice précise que ces armes étaient utilisées par les sultans et les rois qui étaient toujours à la tête de leurs armées.

« À cette époque, au début de l’Empire ottoman, l’épée, la flèche et le poignard étaient des armes communes et bien connues. Par contre, le fusil et le pistolet étaient encore nouveaux », explique Hishâm Nagîb, inspecteur archéologique du musée. La même vitrine comprend encore une boîte en cuivre ornée d’une grande croix au style copte et qui, d’après la directrice, date peut-être du XVe siècle.

Une autre vitrine renferme un nombre de peignes en bois de divers styles et dimensions. Datant des époques fatimide et ottomane, ces peignes sont ornés de formes géométriques et de motifs botaniques, qui renferment à leur tour des calligraphies coufiques. La vitrine comprend aussi une boîte, toujours en bois, incrustée d’ivoire aux motifs géométriques. « Cette boîte était utilisée pour les cosmétiques », reprend Nagîb. Cette vitrine renferme encore un casier multicolore de fusil en forme de violon,

décoré de motifs géométriques qui encadrent des dessins représentant des personnes.

Les plats en porcelaine occupent aussi une place importante dans l’exposition, qui leur consacre une vitrine. De divers couleurs et volumes, les plats portent des calligraphies et des textes des Séfévides, « dont la civilisation correspond à l’époque ottomane en Iran », commente la directrice Mirvat ‘Izzat. La plupart des textes dorés sont des prières chiites pour l’imâm ‘Alî et son fils Husayn. Les plats sont ornés de motifs botaniques. Certains sont aussi décorés de motifs humains, rarement rencontrés dans l’art islamique. « Ceci redouble leur valeur archéologique et artistique », reprend la directrice.

Quant à la dernière vitrine, elle renferme des vases et de la vaisselle en verre bohémien, un type de verre plein de finesse. On y remarque aussi un chandelier. « Le contenu de cette vitrine remonte au XIXe siècle », explique l’inspecteur archéologique. Les couleurs bleu ciel et orange dominent dans cette vitrine. Les vases et les pièces de vaisselle sont en outre décorés de motifs botaniques, qui forment de belles scènes entourées de ronds dorés.

M a i 2 0 1 8


Malgré sa petite taille, l’exposition couvre plusieurs époques de la civilisation islamique avec tous ses aspects. De l’époque fatimide en Égypte, en passant par l’époque ottomane en Turquie, à celle des Séfévides en Iran, sans oublier les variantes calligraphies, tout y est représenté. Ainsi l’exposition reflète-t-elle bel et bien « les chefs-d’œuvre de la Crétoise », faisant du musée un carrefour des arts islamiques. (Doaa Elhami, « Au carrefour des arts islamiques », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 9 mai 2018).

- -

Entretien réalisé par Masrâwî avec le directeur de l’Institut français d’archéologie orientale (Ifao), Laurent BAVAY, autour de la Journée de l’archéologie française en Égypte, de l’histoire et du rôle de l’Ifao :

Masrâwî : Voulez-vous nous parler de la Journée de l’archéologie française organisée par l’Ifao ?

Laurent BAVAY : Il s’agit d’un événement que nous organisons pour la deuxième année consécutive. Les missions archéologiques opèrent sur le territoire égyptien tout au long de l’année et ne s’arrêtent qu’entre mai et septembre à cause de la chaleur. Cette rencontre sert de tribune aux chercheurs afin d’expliquer les découvertes qu’ils ont réalisées.

— Depuis sa fondation en 1880 quel est le rôle principal joué par l’Ifao ?

— L’Ifao a pour vocation l’étude de toutes les civilisations qui se sont succédé sur le sol égyptien depuis la préhistoire jusqu’à l’époque moderne. Notre action s’appuie sur la coopération établie avec le ministère

égyptien de l’Archéologie et les universités égyptiennes.

— Quelles en sont les principales missions archéologiques ?

— Nos missions archéologiques s’occupent de fouilles, de documentation et de publication scientifique. Aujourd’hui, l’Ifao assure annuellement entre 30 et 35 missions de fouilles, en plus des missions permanentes, comme celle du temple de Kom Ombo, ou encore celle de Taposiris Magna et Plinthine, situé à 45 Km à l’ouest d’Alexandrie.

— Quelles sont les découvertes notoires réalisées par ces missions ?

— Depuis sa création, l’Ifao s’est engagé dans des travaux archéologiques sur plus de 130 sites archéologiques répandus sur l’ensemble du territoire égyptien. Nous avons mis au jour, entre autres, tout un trésor en or à al-Tôd, ainsi que les tombes de Tanis en 1939. Sans parler des papyrus découverts à Wâdî al-Garf sur la mer Rouge qui nous renseignent sur la construction des pyramides.

— Quelles sont les difficultés majeures qu’affrontent les missions archéologiques ?

— Le financement constitue le premier défi pour tout chef de mission. Les opérations de fouilles archéologiques sont extrêmement coûteuses, notamment pour une grande équipe de travail.

— Quelle est la source principale de financement de ces missions ?

— Fort heureusement, la France investit des sommes colossales dans l’étude de l’histoire égyptienne. Depuis longtemps et jusqu’à nos jours, la relation bilatérale entre ces deux pays est « très privilégiée ». Preuve en est la création par la France de trois centres de recherches : l’Ifao, le CFEETK et le CEAlex. Les missions archéologiques bénéficient également du soutien financier des universités françaises, du Cnrs, ainsi que d’autres institutions de la société civile qui collectent des dons spécifiquement à cet usage. À vrai dire, l’intérêt croissant pour la civilisation égyptienne émane d’une passion française,

M a i 2 0 1 8


notamment après les dégâts considérables essuyés par le patrimoine syrien.

— À quand remonte votre première visite en Égypte ?

— Je suis arrivé en Égypte pour la première fois en 1994, afin de participer aux fouilles de Tanis. Au cours de mes études à l’université de Bruxelles, je n’étais pas particulièrement féru de la civilisation égyptienne. L’un de mes professeurs d’égyptologie a réussi à me m’insuffler cette vocation. Après la soutenance de ma thèse sous la direction de ce même professeur, je l’ai remplacé dans l’enseignement à l’université.

— Quelle est l’histoire du palais Mounira, siège de l’Ifao ?

— Lors de sa création en 1880, l’Ifao siégeait à la rue Antikhana, près de l’actuelle place Tahrîr. En 1907, il quitte ses locaux pour s’installer au palais Mounira, une ancienne résidence princière acquise par le gouvernement français. Par la suite, l’Ifao s’est doté de ses différents services : laboratoires, bibliothèque, imprimerie, service informatique, etc. (Ranâ al-Gamî‘î et Du‘â al-Fûlî, « Le directeur de l’Ifao : la destruction du patrimoine archéologique syrien a rehaussé la conscience pour la civilisation égyptienne », Masrâwî, 9 mai 2018. Voir également Ranâ al-Gamî‘î et Du‘â al-Fûlî, « Le directeur de l’Ifao : la destruction du patrimoine archéologique syrien a rehaussé la conscience pour la civilisation égyptienne », al-‘Arab al-Yawm, 9 mai ; Mahmûd Hâshim, « Les missions archéologiques françaises en Égypte : une histoire jalonnées de découvertes », al-Sharq al-Awsat, 12 mai).

- -

Jeudi 10 mai 2018

Since the discovery of his intact tomb in the Valley of the Kings at Luxor in 1922, the magic of the Ancient Egyptian golden boy-king Tutankhamun has fascinated the world through his treasured collection, his unidentified lineage, and his early and somewhat mysterious death.

This week Tutankhamun once again made the headlines with the results of a new radar survey confirming that there was no hidden “Nefertiti chamber” in the boy-king’s tomb. Also this week, the boy Pharaoh’s last chariot was transferred safely to its permanent display at the new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) and the Fourth International Conference on his treasured funerary collection was launched.

After almost three months of study, a new geophysical survey carried out by an Italian scientific team has provided conclusive evidence that no hidden chambers exist adjacent to or inside Tutankhamun’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings.

Francesco PORCELLI of the Polytechnic University of Turin and head of the team told Al-Ahram Weekly that ground-penetrating radar (GPR) scans were performed along vertical and horizontal axes with very dense spatial sampling in order to examine the tomb. Double antenna polarisations were employed, with transmitting and receiving dipoles both orthogonal and parallel to the scanning direction.

PORCELLI said that the results of the scans had shown no marked discontinuities due to the passage from natural rock to man-made blocking walls evidenced in the GPR radargrams, nor evidence of the jambs or lintel of a hidden doorway. Similarly, the radargrams did not show any indication of plane reflectors, which could be interpreted as chamber walls or void areas behind the paintings of the funerary chamber, he said.

“It is concluded, with a very high degree of confidence, that the hypothesis concerning the existence of hidden chambers or corridors adjacent to Tutankhamun’s tomb is not

M a i 2 0 1 8


supported by the GPR data,” PORCELLI confirmed.

He added that he was pleased and confident of the results that he and his team had achieved, describing them as “accurate and not disappointing”.

This was the third GPR survey to be conducted inside the tomb in recent years. It was designed to halt controversy aroused after the contradictory results of two previous radar surveys to test a theory launched in 2015 by British Egyptologist Nicholas REEVES, who suggested that the tomb of queen Nefertiti could be concealed behind the north and west wall paintings of Tutankhamun’s burial chamber.

The theory was supported by former minister of antiquities Mamdûh al-Damâtî, who agreed to conduct two GPR surveys. The first was conducted by a Japanese professional who asserted with 95 per cent certainty the existence of a doorway and a hall with artefacts behind the tomb walls.

The second was carried out with another high-tech GPR device by an American scientific team from National Geographic magazine, which rejected the previous Japanese results and asserted that nothing existed behind the west and north wall of Tutankhamun’s burial chamber.

To solve the difficulties encountered by the two preceding surveys and provide a conclusive response, Antiquities Minister Khâlid al-‘Inânî, who took office in March 2016, decided to discuss the matter at the Second International Tutankhamun

Conference, which decided to conduct a third GPR analysis to put an end to the debate.

Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), said that a scientific report had been submitted to the Permanent Committee for Ancient Egyptian Antiquities by PORCELLI and his team, which included experts from the nearby University of Turin and from two private geophysics companies, Geostudi ASTIER (Leghorn) and 3DGeoimaging (Turin), which had collected GPR data from inside the tomb in February 2018.

CHARIOT TRANSFER: At the same time, the ministries of defence and antiquities celebrated the transfer of the sixth and last chariot of the golden boy-king from its temporary display at the Military Museum at the Citadel to its permanent display at the GEM, which is scheduled to open at the end of 2018.

To the sound of a military march, the royal chariot left the Citadel for the GEM, which will exhibit for the first time all 5,200 artefacts found in Tutankhamun’s collection. Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî received the chariot at the GEM, describing the new museum as “a gift” from Egypt to the world.

“It is the first time that the six chariots from the tomb have been displayed together since their discovery in 1922,” al-‘Inânî told the Weekly, adding that it had taken nine years to reassemble and restore the last chariot upon its discovery. It was sent to the Military Museum at the Citadel in 1987 in celebration of the 1973 October War victory.

Îsa Zaydân, head of first-aid restoration at the GEM, said the chariot was padded with special materials to absorb any vibrations during transportation. State-of-the-art

M a i 2 0 1 8


technology and modern scientific techniques were used in order to guarantee the safe lifting and moving of the chariot from its display at the Military Museum, which focuses on the weapons of Tutankhamun collection.

The chariot’s new display at the GEM was a unique opportunity to contribute to the future of the collection and its display through fruitful discussion and academic presentations that took place during the chariot’s movement at the Fourth International Conference on the funerary collection.

During the opening of the conference, al-‘Inânî said that 70 per cent of the GEM’s buildings had been completed and 43,257 artefacts transferred, including 4,549 objects from the Tutankhamun collection. The conference heard lectures delivered by international scholars discussing technology used in displaying and restoring historical artefacts, including military equipment.

Târiq Tawfîq, the GEM chief curator, told the Weekly that professor of Egyptology at the American University in Cairo Fâyza Haykal was the head of this year’s conference, which included the participation of 12 scholars from six countries (Italy, Holland, Japan, France, Spain, Germany, Switzerland and Denmark).

The participants discussed 17 scientific papers on the statues of Tutankhamun, among them the black statues known as “guardian statues”, the trumpet used to announce a war, as well as swords ending in material taken from meteorites. Tawfîq added that the king’s Hathor head statue had been a focus of discussion, as some had suggested that it could have been meant for funerary rituals, especially the “opening of the mouth” ritual.

“These discussions will help put together information for the labels of the Tutankhamun collection in the GEM, as well as the museum’s audio-visual guide and brochures,” Tawfîq said.

He added that upon its soft opening at the end of this year the GEM will dedicate a section in the Tutankhamun galleries to scientific research, including that carried out in recent decades in an attempt to solve

enigmatic riddles concerning the life and death of the boy-king. Next year, he added, the Fifth Conference will be held at the GEM. (Nevine El-Aref, “Under the spell of Tutankhamun”, Al-Ahram Weekly, May 10, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le char de Toutankhamon arrive au GEM », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 5 mai ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Arrivée au GEM du dernier char de Toutankhamon », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 5 mai ; Ranâ Gawhar, « Le GEM accueille le dernier char de Toutankhamon », al-Ahrâm, 6 mai ; Nevine El-Aref, “New survey confirms no hidden Nefertiti chamber in Tutankhamun’s tomb”, Ahram Online, May 6 ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Tenue du 4e congrès international sur Toutankhamon en présence d’archéologues internationaux », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 6 mai ; Muhammad al-Samkûrî, « La mission italienne prouve l’absence de toute pièce derrière la tombe de Toutankhamon », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 6 mai ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Après des mois d’études, aucune chambre n’existe derrière la tombe de Toutankhamon », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 6 mai ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Verdict définitif : Pas de chambre secrète derrière la tombe de Toutankhamon », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 6 mai ; Hend El-Behary, “No hidden room in Tutankhamun burial chamber”, Egypt Independent, May 8 ; Dalia Farouq, « Pas de chambre secrète », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 9 mai ; Zâhî Hawwâs, « Clap de fin pour Néfertiti ?! », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 12 juin).

- -

Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al-‘Inânî, a reçu au palais Manyal le président de l’Autorité d’Abou Dhabi pour le tourisme et la culture, S.E. Muhammad Khalîfa Âl Mubârak, ainsi que la délégation qui l’accompagnait. Ont participé à cet entretien l’ambassadeur

M a i 2 0 1 8


des Émirats arabes unis au Caire, S.E. Gum‘a Mubârak al-Ginîbî ; et le secrétaire général du Conseil Suprême des Antiquités, Dr Mustafa Wazîrî.

L’entretien a porté sur le renforcement de la coopération bilatérale en matière archéologique et patrimoniale, l’échange d’expertises, le réaménagement des sites archéologiques et la modernisation des musées. (Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie examine le renforcement de la coopération archéologique avec le président de l’Autorité d’Abou Dhabi pour le tourisme et la culture », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 10 mai 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit le président de l’Autorité d’Abou Dhabi pour le tourisme et la culture », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 10 mai ; Georges Édouard, « L’ambassadeur Gum‘a Mubârak al-Ginîbî rencontre le ministre égyptien de l’Archéologie », Watanî, 11 mai).

- -

Hasan ‘Abd al-‘Azîm, retraité âgé de 73 ans, a été écroué pour trafic archéologique. La perquisition de son domicile, situé à Mallawî dans le gouvernorat de Minyâ, a permis aux policiers de saisir 18 pièces pharaoniques : 9 momies de Bastet, une statuette en bois d’une femme debout portant une perruque, 4 statuettes en faïence bleue représentant le dieu Bès, un hippopotame, un lion assis, et une autre femme debout, 2 amulettes, un vase en ivoire, ainsi qu’une statuette osiriaque en granite vert. (Ashraf Ghayth, « Saisie de 18 pièces archéologiques dans une maison à Minyâ », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 10 mai 2018).

- -

Vendredi 11 mai 2018

The Egyptian archaeological expedition unearthed the remains of a temple at Hajj ‘Alî village, dating back to the second century AD, under the reign of Roman Emperor Antonius Pius.

The village, where the discovery was made, is located about 350 meters away from the Mountain of the Dead (Gabal al-Mawta) in the Sîwa Oasis.

The discovery reflects the history and civilization of Sîwa and the northern coast area during the Roman era, head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî said on Thursday.

The temple consists of the foundations of a huge rectangular limestone building with a length of 40 meters from north to south, and 8.5 meters from east to west.

Its entrance is located on the north side and there are two small rooms on its both sides leading to a 25-meter long hall, followed by the front room and then the Holy of Holies.

The temple is surrounded by an outer wall that is 71 meters long and 56 meters wide.

Director General of the Antiquities of Matrûh and Sîwa and head of the archaeological mission ‘Abd al-‘Azîz al-Dimayrî, who made the discovery, said that one of the most important artefacts unearthed during the excavation was a limestone plate containing a Greek inscription embellished with a cornice which depicts the sun surrounded by cobras.

The artefact helped with identifying the Roman emperor under whom the temple was built. It also displayed the Egyptian rulers of the region during this period, according to al-Dimayrî.

The length of the panel is about 5 meters and one meter wide. It was found broken in three parts, and is probably part of the upper

M a i 2 0 1 8


threshold that is placed at the entrance to the temple, said al-Dimayrî, adding that the panel was found in a good state and would be dispatched for restoration. (“Roman-era temple unearthed in Sîwa”, Egypt Independent, May 11, 2018. Voir également « Mise au jour d’un temple datant d’Antonin le Pieux à Sîwa », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 10 mai ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Une mission égyptienne réalise une nouvelle découverte archéologique dans le village Hajj ‘Alî à Sîwa », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 10 mai ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Mise au jour du temple d’Antonin le Pieux dans le village Hajj ‘Alî à Sîwa », Sada al-Balad, 10 mai ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Découverte d’un temple de l’époque d’Antonin le Pieux », Watanî, 10 mai ; Hala Farès, « Un temple romain découvert à Sîwa », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 16 mai).

- -

Dimanche 13 mai 2018

Officials of the Antiquities Unit of the Customs Department at Cairo International Airport on Sunday foiled an attempt to smuggle a collection of old manuscripts and documents that date back several centuries out of Egypt.

Hamdî Hammâm, head of the Central Administration of Seized Antiquities Unit told Ahram Online that the manuscripts were contained in three books, while ten other documents were packed in seven separate parcels on their way to an Arab country.

According to ‘Alî Ramadân, director of the Archaeological Unit at the airport’s cargo village, one book is entitled Summary of the Speeches of the Princes of the Holy House.

The 277-page text is imprinted with red and black ink and bears several dates from 948-1299 Hijra (1541/2-1881/2 CE).

The second book includes of 20 pages and is dated 28 Jumada II 1334 Hijra (1915/6 CE). The third has 56 pages and bears the date 1265 Hijra (1848/9 CE).

The ten documents belong to the Egyptian Survey Authority and are dated from 1239 to 1251 Hijra (1823/4 - 1835/6 CE).

An archaeological committee from the Ministry of Antiquities has inspected and verified the authenticity of the items.

The documents and manuscripts were confiscated according to Antiquities Protection Law 117/1983 and its amendments, and will be held until the investigation’s conclusion. (Nevine El-Aref, “Cairo International Airport officials foil attempt to smuggle old manuscripts out of Egypt”, Ahram Online, May 13, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Saisie de 7 colis contenant des ouvrages et des manuscrits à l’aéroport du Caire », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 13 mai ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Saisie à l’aéroport du Caire de 7 colis », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 13 mai ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Échec d’une tentative d’exportation illicite de manuscrits via l’aéroport du Caire », Sada al-Balad, 13 mai ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Saisie de 7 colis contenant des manuscrits et des documents », Watanî, 13 mai ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Tentative déjouée d’exportation illicite de manuscrits à travers l’aéroport du Caire », al-Ahrâm, 14 mai).

- -

Mardi 15 mai 2018

In a meeting on Monday, the National Committee for Developing and Preserving Historic Cairo proposed the establishment of a law and entity to regulate commercial activities and ownership of historic buildings in Khedival Cairo.

The committee, headed by the president’s adviser for national development projects Ibrâhîm Mihlib, aims to develop Khedival Cairo and its surroundings through the

M a i 2 0 1 8


preservation and renovation of its historic buildings.

Members of the committee proposed a special law to regulate commercial activities in the historic area to protect its significant value.

The committee members also discussed ongoing successful collaboration efforts with the National Organisation for Urban Harmony and the General Authority for Urban Planning to draw a new plan for Cairo as a historic capital.

The committee also foresees an entity to regulate the ownership of historic buildings in Medieval and Khedival Cairo, particularly those owned by ministries and authorities that will transfer soon to the new administrative city under construction east of Cairo.

Mihlib said the committee has a clear vision to make the Historic Cairo Development project benefit Egypt’s economy, by investing in the 100-plus historic buildings owned by the government.

A timetable will be set for completion of the development project, in keeping with Egypt’s Vision 2030. (Nevine El-Aref, “Historical preservation committee proposes new entity to regulate commerce and ownership in Khedival Cairo”, Ahram Online, May 15, 2018. Voir également Hâla Saqr, « Les propriétaires des cafés de la Bourse refusent de changer leurs activités », al-Tahrîr, 20 mai).

- -

Burg al-‘Arab Airport customs authorities thwarted an attempt to smuggle archaeological coins of different sizes and forms, dating back to the Muhammad ‘Alî dynasty’s reign of Egypt. Among those coins was the “red serrated edge millieme” of the King Fârûq era.

The customs authorities also seized a rare coin dating back to the start of the Ottoman era. The coin, which was circulated back, then in all countries under Ottoman rule, gave a clear image of the financial history of the Ottoman Empire and its involvement with the world monetary system.

Burg al-‘Arab authorities suspected coins in the suitcase of a passenger coming from Jeddah on Saudi Arabian Airlines. They examined his bags on the X-ray machine, before finding out he was carrying commemorative coins, including 11 archaeological coins protected under the Egyptian antiquities law. (“Burg al-‘Arab Airport authorities thwart smuggling attempt of archaeological coins”, Egypt Independent, May 15, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Saisie à l’aéroport de Burg al-‘Arab de monnaies d’époque gréco-romaine », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 3 mai ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Saisie de monnaies antiques en possession d’un Américain à l’aéroport de Burg al-‘Arab », Sada al-Balad, 3 mai ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Saisie de 3 monnaies d’époque gréco-romaine à l’aéroport de Burg al-‘Arab », Watanî, 3 mai ; Ragab Ramadân, « Tentative déjouée d’exportation illicite de monnaies antiques à travers l’aéroport de Burg al-‘Arab », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 14 mai).

- -

Mercredi 16 mai 2018

Sâmih al-Masrî

À l’occasion de la Journée internationale des musées célébrée le 18 mai, le muséologue Sâmih al-Masrî, directeur général de la planification et de la restauration des musées au ministère des Antiquités, parle de la

M a i 2 0 1 8


modernisation de ces établissements qui conservent l’histoire et l’identité égyptiennes :

Al-Ahram Hebdo : La muséologie s’est beaucoup développée au cours des dernières années. Où en est l’Égypte de ce développement ?

Sâmih al-Masrî : Avant 2006, presque tous les musées en Égypte se ressemblaient. L’idée de créer une conception unique et riche spécifique à chaque édifice n’existait pas. On organisait les musées selon une ligne chronologique. Mais tout a changé avec la vision de l’ancien ministre de la Culture, Fârûq Husnî, qui a commencé à nous apprendre la muséologie, cet art qui étudie l’institution muséale : le classement des pièces, la mise en valeur de chaque collection et des œuvres d’art, la médiation, l’animation, etc. Aujourd’hui, il y a une vision tout à fait nouvelle pour les musées.

— Le thème de l’ICOM cette année est « Des musées hyper connectés, nouvelles approches, nouveaux publics ». Comment interprétez-vous ce slogan ?

— La muséologie a recours à de nombreuses disciplines modernes pour attirer le visiteur, dont les sciences de l’information et de la communication, la sociologie, l’histoire. La technologie joue un rôle très important dans cette science moderne pour attirer le plus grand nombre de gens. La muséologie est aujourd’hui enseignée dans les universités, elle est de plus en plus pratiquée par les jeunes.

— Comment cela s’applique-t-il à l’Égypte ?

— On cherche actuellement à s’adresser à un nouveau public, comme les enfants et les handicapés, en leur organisant des événements spéciaux. On cherche à réserver aux handicapés une salle spéciale avec des répliques pour ne pas les priver de visiter les musées et de connaître leur histoire. On a commencé par le musée de Louqsor. Mais c’est une option qui n’est pas applicable dans tous les musées. On a aussi utilisé, dans certains musées, les applications mobiles, mais c’est une question de rentabilité, car la

technologie coûte cher et le ministère n’a pas les moyens financiers.

— Peut-on dire que l’Égypte possède aujourd’hui des musées dotés de visions modernes ?

— Avec l’inauguration de chaque nouveau musée ou si on fait des rénovations, la vision est différente et moderne. Ce n’est plus une exposition chronologique comme dans le temps, mais il y a une conception nouvelle et différente. Cela a été appliqué pour la première fois au musée d’al-‘Arîsh, au nord de la péninsule du Sinaï, qui a pour thème « La Porte orientale de l’Égypte », et on travaille de manière à rénover d’autres musées. De même, le musée d’Art islamique était pour moi un grand défi, j’avais un message de paix à transmettre au monde entier contre le terrorisme.

— Adaptez-vous donc dans chaque musée un thème spécifique ?

— Notre but premier est de sensibiliser le grand public à l’importance des musées, dont le rôle est d’aider au développement de la société. Parfois, on est forcé de changer complètement le concept d’un musée pour présenter un message particulier. Par exemple, en traçant la nouvelle exposition du musée de Mallawî à Minyâ, j’avais en tête d’éduquer les nouvelles générations quant à l’importance de leur patrimoine matériel et immatériel, en se basant sur le thème de la famille et en mettant l’accent sur le rôle de la femme. On a voulu changer quelques traditions, coutumes et concepts liés au rôle mineur de la femme en Haute-Égypte.

— Comment pouvez-vous arriver au point de faire un scénario attirant pour satisfaire des visiteurs différents en âge, sexe et culture ?

— C’est une équation très difficile. On doit classer les pièces d’une manière séduisante qui attire l’œil du visiteur, en même temps qu’il se déplace à l’aise d’une salle à une autre, entre les pièces et les vitrines. Et chaque 6 mois, on fait la rotation de quelques pièces avec celles entassées dans les entrepôts des musées. Cela permet au visiteur

M a i 2 0 1 8


de trouver chaque année des pièces différentes.

— Êtes-vous pour l’exposition libre des pièces ou le fait de les garder dans des vitrines ?

— Cela varie d’une pièce à l’autre. Les vitrines d’exposition permettent de régler les conditions environnementales, dont l’humidité et les polluants, en plus d’aider à réduire les risques de dommage aux objets exposés. On ne peut pas aussi exposer librement les petites pièces comme les monnaies ou les ustensiles quotidiens.

— Y a-t-il du nouveau dans les vitrines modernes ?

— C’est surtout une question de dimension et d’éclairage. Au musée de Tell Basta par exemple, dans le gouvernorat d’al-Sharqiyya, une très grande vitrine, attirant tous les visiteurs, est fabriquée pour exposer tout le contenu d’une tombe. C’est l’une des pièces maîtresses qui attirent les yeux des visiteurs avec l’éclairage.

— Les nouvelles techniques d’éclairage changent-elles les anciennes ?

— On doit faire la différence entre les antiquités organiques et non organiques, surtout que chacune exige une quantité différente de lumière. Les nouvelles technologies ont prouvé que les lampes fluorescentes et héliogènes ne sont pas adaptées aux pièces antiques, alors on a tout remplacé avec les LED. Bien que les uns préfèrent l’éclairage solaire, moi je suis contre, tout simplement à cause des rayons ultraviolets qui activent les oxydes nuisibles sur les pièces et les détériorent.

— Avec le grand nombre d’antiquités en Égypte, comment choisissez-vous les pièces qui seront exposées dans un musée ?

— Il est vrai que c’est très difficile de faire le tri parmi le tas de pièces qui se trouvent, soit dans les entrepôts des musées ou sur les chantiers archéologiques. Mais à vrai dire, ce grand nombre est pour moi un avantage qui est en faveur du thème choisi.

— Les conservateurs des musées ont-ils un rôle dans la création ou la modification du scénario muséologique ?

— Certainement. C’est eux qui expliquent aux visiteurs la conception du musée, les pièces et l’historique. Ils doivent donc non seulement être convaincus du concept, mais en plus participer à sa création en collaboration avec les scientifiques et les spécialistes. Ils supervisent ensuite toutes les étapes de la réalisation du projet.

— Est-ce qu’un musée peut avoir une ou plusieurs pièces maîtresses ?

— C’est sûr. Très souvent, on est confus dans le choix des pièces. Est-il préférable de prendre la plus importante, ou la plus belle ou la plus ancienne ? En fin de compte, tout dépend du message que l’on veut transmettre au visiteur. Au Musée d’Art islamique par exemple, on a créé un scénario qui convient pour exposer plusieurs pièces à l’entrée : une copie antique du Coran, une boussole, l’astrolabe, un exemple des jarres asiatiques, pour débuter l’exposition qui a pour thème l’art islamique à travers les siècles.

— Quel est votre futur projet ?

— Le secteur travaille actuellement dans le Musée militaire de la Citadelle afin de le développer, pour qu’il soit cohérent avec l’époque contemporaine. (Nasma Réda, « Sâmih al-Masrî : Aujourd’hui, il y a une vision tout à fait nouvelle pour les musées », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 16 mai 2018).

- -

Le secrétaire général du Conseil Suprême des Antiquités, Dr Mustafa Wazîrî, a procédé à une série de remaniements au sein des cadres des antiquités islamiques. Sa décision n° 3599/2018 porte nomination de :

— Khidr Madbûlî est nommé directeur général des antiquités du Nord du Caire.

— Muhammad Abû Srî‘ est nommé directeur général des antiquités d’al-Gamâliyya.

M a i 2 0 1 8


— Bâsim ‘Imâd al-Ashqar est nommé directeur général de la zone archéologique d’al-Azhar et d’al-Ghûrî.

— Ashraf Sayyid ‘Abd al-Salâm est nommé directeur général des antiquités de Sayyida Zaynab et d’al-Khalîfa.

— Abû Bakr ‘Abdallah est nommé directeur général des zones archéologiques du Nord du Caire. (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Wazîrî procède à des remaniements au sein des cadres des antiquités islamiques », Sada al-Balad, 16 mai 2018).

- -

La Journée de l’archéologie française, organisée la semaine dernière à l’Institut Français d’Égypte (IFE), a dressé le bilan de certaines missions françaises opérant en Égypte, et a évoqué les perspectives d’une nouvelle saison archéologique.

La Journée de l’archéologie a regroupé cette année les trois grands instituts français travaillant en permanence en Égypte, dont l’Institut français d’archéologie orientale (Ifao), le Centre Franco-Égyptien d’Études des Temples de Karnak (CFEETK) et le Centre d’Études Alexandrines (CEAlex). Leurs travaux archéologiques en Égypte se poursuivront avec plus de 30 missions sur différents chantiers de fouille et de restauration, allant de la côte alexandrine au nord à la Haute-Égypte au sud en passant par la vallée du Nil, et jusqu’aux côtes de la mer Rouge et aux déserts.

Laurent BAVAY, directeur de l’Ifao

« La France est le premier partenaire de l’Égypte en matière d’archéologie », affirme Laurent BAVAY, directeur de l’Ifao, qui a organisé cette journée conjointement avec l’IFE, afin de présenter la diversité et la richesse du travail des missions françaises en Égypte.

Concernant l’Ifao, BAVAY a choisi d’expliquer les travaux sur le chantier de Wâdî al-Garf sur la mer Rouge. C’est sur ce chantier que l’égyptologue Pierre TALLET, directeur de la mission de fouilles dans la région, a trouvé des papyrus remontant à l’Ancien Empire et appartenant au roi Chéops, bâtisseur de la grande pyramide. L’année 2017-2018 est fructueuse, elle répond, d’après lui, à une question importante pour les chercheurs du chantier, à savoir quel était le lieu « d’approvisionnement en matières premières ». Les études du port et des ateliers de Wâdî al-Garf, et également l’exploitation des fours de minerais à Sirâbît al-Khâdim dans le Sinaï, ou des ateliers fouillés à ‘Ayn al-Sukhna répondent à cette question qui a tant préoccupé les archéologues.

« La même mission vient de terminer aussi les travaux de fouilles dans un bâtiment d’environ 2 250 m2 situé entre la montagne et la côte de la mer Rouge », déclare BAVAY, ajoutant qu’il s’agit d’une configuration importante, de grande taille, qui rappelle les logements des ouvriers, constructeurs des pyramides de Gîza qui se trouvent sur le Plateau des pyramides. « C’était une fondation pour loger les ouvriers qui travaillaient à cet endroit et qui partaient en expéditions vers le Sinaï à l’époque de l’Ancien Empire, afin d’apporter du cuivre ou de la turquoise ou même de produire des lames ou d’apporter de la pierre calcite », a-t-il expliqué.

Un autre aspect du travail était le développement et l’aménagement des zones touristiques qu’effectue le gouvernement égyptien à proximité des travaux archéologiques à ‘Ayn al-Sukhna et à Gabal al-Galâla, cela a fait que les chercheurs français travaillaient dans l’urgence. Ils voulaient enregistrer les informations archéologiques avant qu’elles ne disparaissent à jamais.

M a i 2 0 1 8


Toujours dans le désert Oriental, l’Ifao a une mission qui opère dans le chantier de Samoute pour exploiter les mines d’or remontant à l’époque hellénistique. Il y a aussi des études sur la monnaie de l’époque gréco-romaine. Quant aux travaux dans le désert Occidental, BAVAY souligne que « comme les années précédentes, les chantiers du désert Occidental, dans les oasis de Dâkhla et Khârga ainsi que dans le Sinaï ne sont pas ouverts pour des raisons de sécurité ».

Bérangère REDON

Quant à la mission du CNRS, opérant dans la région alexandrine de Taposiris Magna et Plinthine, Bérangère REDON, ancienne membre scientifique de l’Ifao et directrice de la mission française opérant sur le site, affirme que les fouilles ont donné lieu à des découvertes spectaculaires. « On sait que Taposiris Magna est une ville grecque dans son architecture domestique et funéraire et ses traditions culturelles. Les fouilles ont montré que la ville a été fondée bien avant l’époque grecque vers la XXVIe dynastie av. J.-C. et s’étale jusqu’à la conquête arabe », indique REDON, ajoutant que la mission a découvert sous l’un de ses bains d’énormes vases avec de magnifiques inscriptions de Saint Menas. « Cela nous a permis donc de savoir que les pèlerins chrétiens passaient par cette région pour arriver au monastère de Saint-Menas dit Abû Mînâ en arabe », a-t-elle expliqué lors de son allocution.

Sur le site de Plinthine situé à 2 km de Taposiris, la mission a découvert un lieu qui servait de « fouloir à raisins » datant du VIIe siècle av. J.-C. « En poursuivant les fouilles, on a découvert que ce site mène à un grand complexe qui comporte des pièces d’habitation », dit-elle, suggérant, d’après les

photos premières du site, que le complexe appartenait probablement à un homme riche.

Christophe THIERS, directeur du CFEETK

L’année 2017 a été celle de la célébration des 50 ans de la fondation du CFEETK. Une exposition de photos d’archives au sein du temple a été organisée en avril 2017 et un nouvel ouvrage a été publié mettant en valeur les travaux accomplis depuis 1967. « Maintenant, les travaux se poursuivent normalement », souligne Christophe THIERS, directeur du centre. En fait, les archéologues reprennent tous les programmes commencés l’année dernière. Il s’agit des fouilles dans le quartier romain-byzantin, et les travaux de restauration de la partie nord de l’Akh-Menou.

« Le travail a débuté par un important nettoyage et la conservation des reliefs peints de la chapelle d’Alexandre le Grand. En mars 2017, la restauration des chambres funéraires a été achevée, mais le travail se poursuit dans les salles voisines », explique THIERS. De même, les travaux d’anastylose se poursuivent dans la cachette de la cour du VIIe pylône, en plus des études épigraphiques. Il est à noter que le VIIe pylône et les murs est et ouest de la cour ont été construits par Thoutmosis III, mais la décoration du mur ouest date du règne de Ramsès II.

Les travaux du CEAlex, fondé en 1990, se poursuivent dans presque toute la ville d’Alexandrie. « On a continué les fouilles qui ont débuté en 2016 sur les deux sites archéologiques de Kom Bahîg et de Burg al-‘Arab, non loin du lac Mariout », souligne

M a i 2 0 1 8


Marie-Dominique NENNA, directrice du Centre, ajoutant que les archéologues ont découvert des blocs appartenant aux murs d’un temple qui ressemblent aux blocs des temples pharaoniques, dont les études sont en cours. « Ce site archéologique est magnifique. Il vient former, avec Taposiris Magna et Plinthine, les frontières de l’Égypte à l’époque pharaonique », dit-elle.

Marie-Dominique NENNA, directrice du CEAlex

Entre fouilles et études de l’histoire de la ville, le CEAlex a commencé des travaux de restauration dans un bâtiment remontant à l’époque alide et construit en 1840 par Muhammad ‘Alî, qui a été attribué au CEAlex depuis une vingtaine d’années par le ministère des Antiquités pour y travailler. « On utilise ce bâtiment comme entrepôt pour les objets découverts par le CEAlex », indique NENNA.

Il s’agit de la restauration de deux grandes salles du bâtiment situées dans le jardin de Shallâlât dans la région de Nahhâsîn. « Ce bâtiment sur deux niveaux abrite tous les objets mis au jour lors des fouilles du CEAlex à Kom Bahîg ou partout à Alexandrie », reprend NENNA, affirmant la continuité des travaux de fouilles et de sauvetage d’urgence de cette ville côtière antique ainsi que des fouilles sous-marines du fort de Qâytbây.

« Le CEAlex a pris la charge depuis longtemps de restaurer les mosaïques, qui sont une spécialité de la ville d’Alexandrie antique. On a découvert une très grande mosaïque remontant au VIe siècle, qui est en cours de restauration. Elle renferme des

bandeaux magnifiques qui montrent des scènes métalogiques successives », souligne-t-elle. Le CEAlex contribue aussi à la restauration des objets et des mosaïques du Musée gréco-romain, qui prépare son inauguration. « Ces pièces antiques peuvent être les piliers du musée spécial consacré à la mosaïque à Alexandrie », prévoit-elle. (Nasma Réda, « Une journée riche en découvertes », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 16 mai 2018. Voir également Nidâl Mamdûh, « 9 mai : Journée de l’archéologie française en Égypte », al-Dustûr, 4 mai ; Ahmad ‘Azâzî, « L’IFE célèbre la Journée de l’archéologie française en Égypte », Baladnâ al-Yawm, 9 mai ; Ranâ al-Gamî‘î et Du‘â al-Fûlî, « Découverte du plus vieux entrepôt d’alcool : histoire d’une chercheuse française », Masrâwî, 10 mai ; Ranâ al-Gamî‘î et Du‘â al-Fûlî, « Découverte du plus vieux entrepôt d’alcool : histoire d’une chercheuse française », al-Mûgaz, 10 mai ; « L’Institut français d’archéologie orientale célèbre la Journée de l’archéologie française en Égypte », Akhbarak.net, 11 mai ; Asmâ’ Ibrâhîm, « D’Alexandrie à Louqsor : les missions archéologiques en Égypte et leurs plus importantes découvertes », Mantiqtî, 13 mai).

- -

Jeudi 17 mai 2018

Le secrétaire général du Conseil Suprême des Antiquités, Dr Mustafa Wazîrî, a pris la décision n° 3339/2018 portant nomination du Dr Muhammad al-Husaynî Tamân au poste de directeur général des antiquités islamiques, coptes et juives de Basse-Égypte et du Sinaï. Dr Tamân remplace Ashraf Khalîfa parti à la retraite. (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Tamân nommé directeur général des antiquités islamiques de Basse-Égypte et du Sinaï », Sada al-Balad, 17 mai 2018).

- -


The British Museum in London put on display Mo Salâh’s mint green football boots as part of its exhibition “Modern Egypt’s

M a i 2 0 1 8


Exhibition”, a trial exhibition that was launched in 2016 and aims to display different Egyptian pieces that together tell the story of the evolution of Egyptian society.

The decision to display Salâh’s boots within the collection came following Liverpool forward won the prestigious Premier League Golden Boot award as well as the Premier League Player of the Season title after a sensational debut season.

Neal SPENCER, curator of the Egyptian and Sudanese artefacts of the museum, addressed the choice to display the boot through the museum’s official twitter account tweeting, “this shoe tells the story of a modern Egyptian icon. Someone who plays in England but has a global effect. It fits within our current project to tell stories of the contemporary Egyptian life between the 20th and the 21st centuries.”

The “Modern Egypt Exhibition” aims to describe the relationship between Egyptians and exhibits in contemporary Egypt. Under the supervision of architect Muhammad al-Shahîd, the project was launched two years ago on a smaller scale, where it displayed several objects in a small plaza downtown London including razor blades, cigarette boxes, old radio devices, post boxes and some editions of newspapers and magazines.

This time, however, the project will display much more notable pieces such as a sewing device that was manufactured in Egyptian military factories in the 50s and 60s, in an attempt to highlight the notable societal changes during this period.

The British Museum has the largest Egyptian antiquities collection in the world outside the Egyptian Museum, with over

100,000 pieces in display. The section has been founded along with the museum in 1753. It includes seven display galleries, which contain pieces from almost every period and every important site in the history of Egypt.

Salâh has had an amazing season with Liverpool, scoring 32 goals in a 38-match Premier League season, in addition to earning several awards including Top Scorer of the Top Five Leagues as well as Liverpool’s Player of the Season Award. (Farah Tawfeek, “British Museum displays Salâh’s shoe next to the Pharaohs’ statues”, Egypt Independent, May 18, 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Muhammad Salâh à la sauce Toutankhamon : les chaussures font partie intégrante de la civilisation égyptienne », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 18 mai ; Samar al-Naggâr, « L’exposition des chaussures de Salâh au British Museum déclenche un tollé », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 19 mai ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Exposer des chaussures devant la statue de Ramsès II constitue un outrage », Sada al-Balad, 20 mai).

- -

Samedi 19 mai 2018

La présidente du Département des musées, Ilhâm Salâh al-Dîn, a annoncé la formation d’une commission chargée de sélectionner les pièces archéologiques destinées à être exposées dans le musée d’Hurghada qui sera prochainement inauguré. La collection de ce musée regroupera pas moins de mille pièces en provenance des différents entrepôts muséologiques. L’objectif étant d’attirer les touristes et de rehausser les revenus du ministère.

De son côté, le président du Département des projets, Wa‘d Abû al-‘Ilâ, a évalué à 0,5 milliard de livres égyptiennes le montant nécessaire pour la création des musées dans les villes côtières. D’où l’importance de la contribution des investisseurs égyptiens, afin d’aider l’achèvement des musées gelés par manque de financement et la création de nouveaux musées. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Bon présage : le Département des musées

M a i 2 0 1 8


sélectionne des pièces pour le musée d’Hurghada », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 19 mai 2018).

- -


Remains of the bath

An Egyptian archaeological mission from the Supreme Council of Antiquities has uncovered sections from a huge red brick building that might be part of a Greco-Roman bath at Sân al-Hagar archaeological site in al-Gharbiyya governorate.

The mission has also uncovered a collection of pottery vessels, terracotta statues, bronze tools and coins, a stone fragment engraved with hieroglyphs and a small statue of a lamb.

Head of the mission Sa‘îd al-‘Assâl told Ahram Online that the most notable artefact discovered is a gold coin of King Ptolemy III, which was made during the reign of his son King Ptolemy IV (244 – 204 BC) in memory of

his father. The diameter of the coin is 2.6cm and weighs about 28g.

One side of the coin depicts a portrait of King Ptolemy III wearing the crown while the other side bears the Land of Prosperity and the name of the king. (Nevine El-Aref, “Greco-Roman bath, artefacts discovered at Sân al-Hagar archaeological site in Egypt”, Ahram Online, May 23, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Découverte de vestiges d’un bâtiment imposant d’époque gréco-romaine à Sân al-Hagar », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 23 mai ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Une mission égyptienne exhume des vestiges d’un bâtiment imposant à Sân al-Hagar », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 23 mai ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte des vestiges d’un bâtiment imposant à Sân al-Hagar », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 23 mai ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Découverte de vestiges d’un grand bâtiment à Sân al-Hagar », Watanî, 23 mai ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Mise au jour de vestiges d’un bâtiment d’époque gréco-romaine à al-Gharbiyya », al-Ahrâm, 24 mai).

- -

(Photo : Kuleuven, Dayr al-Barshâ Project)

La mission archéologique du Katholieke Universiteit Leuven en Belgique, dépendant du Nederlands-Vlaams Instituut in Cairo (NVIC), opère sur le site de Dayr al-Barshâ, l’un

M a i 2 0 1 8


des villages de Mallawî, situé au sud du gouvernorat de Minyâ, depuis 2002. Le site se compose de deux collines, l’une au nord et l’autre au sud. « La colline nord renferme le cimetière des gouverneurs de la XVe province Hermopolis, actuellement Ashmûnayn, du Moyen Empire, alors que celle du sud comprend la nécropole de l’Ancien Empire où la mission a commencé ses travaux », explique l’assistante du directeur de la mission, Marleen DE MEYER.

La mission a dégagé, au cours de ses travaux dans la colline sud, des tombes étroites, dont les parois sont dépourvues de toute décoration et qui remontent à l’Ancien Empire. Néanmoins, « nos fouilles et recherches dans cette région ont montré que cette nécropole de l’Ancien Empire a été réutilisée durant la Première Période intermédiaire », affirme DE MEYER, donnant l’exemple d’une tombe d’un certain Henou, qui était le superviseur d’un domaine royal.

« On a trouvé à l’intérieur les titres du propriétaire de la tombe, dont le plus important est l’ami unique du roi, qui est un titre commun à l’époque et qui était attribué aux hauts fonctionnaires, surtout ceux qui travaillaient sous la direction du gouverneur. Sur l’une des parois de la tombe est inscrit un texte dans lequel Henou explique la raison de la réutilisation du cimetière de l’Ancien Empire », souligne l’égyptologue.

Les objets de Henou dans le Musée de Mallawî. (Photo : Kuleuven,

Dayr al-Barshâ Project)

Quant à la colline nord de Dayr al-Barshâ, elle renferme le cimetière des gouverneurs du Moyen Empire. La mission du NVIC n’est pas la première à y opérer, puisque le site a déjà été soumis aux travaux de fouilles par l’archéologue français Georges DARESSY en

1838, par l’Égyptien Ahmad bey Kamâl de 1900 à 1902 et par l’Américain George Andrew REISNER en 1915. Les fouilles ont ensuite été abandonnées, raison pour laquelle la récente mission a dû redégager la colline nord et son cimetière, les nettoyer, esquisser leur plan et localiser les tombes. Suite aux études effectuées, les tombes du Moyen Empire sont plus vastes et colorées, et leurs puits sont rectangulaires, tandis que les puits de celles de l’Ancien Empire sont carrés.

Le cimetière du Moyen Empire de la colline nord de Dayr al-Barshâ est riche pour ce qui est de son mobilier funéraire et de ses bas-reliefs raffinés et colorés. On y voit un bateau en bois des fermiers travaillant dans les champs, d’autres fabricant du pain et de la bière. Ces tombes comprennent aussi de très belles tables d’offrandes en calcaire, comme celles dans la tombe du gouverneur Nehri I. D’autres tables d’offrandes étaient fabriquées en cartonnage coloré et on y distingue des légumes, de la viande et du pain. Les couleurs sont vives. Ce type de tables d’offrandes a été dégagé des puits funéraires de Sepi I et de Sepi III, chef de l’armée sous le règne des rois Sésostris II et III. Ces hauts fonctionnaires ainsi que les notables de la province étaient enterrés auprès de leurs gouverneurs.

Les objets de Henou dans le Musée de Mallawî. (Photo : Kuleuven,

Dayr al-Barshâ Project)

Parmi les tombes les plus belles et les mieux conservées du cimetière du Moyen Empire à Dayr al-Barshâ figure celle du gouverneur Djéhoutyhotep, qui a vécu sous le règne des rois Sésostris II et Sésostris III de la XIIe dynastie. Les scènes sur les parois de la tombe décrivent les diverses activités du gouverneur. Il était le percepteur des impôts, comptant les bovins, et revoyait les offrandes.

M a i 2 0 1 8


Les parois présentent aussi les membres de sa famille, constituée de son épouse, de 3 fils et de 5 filles.

L’une des plus importantes scènes est celle montrant « 172 ouvriers en 4 rangées, qui tirent la statue colossale en albâtre de Djéhoutyhotep vers sa chapelle funéraire. Ils sont devancés par un ouvrier qui verse de l’eau, afin de faciliter le glissement de la statue sur la terre boueuse », explique DE MAYER. L’égyptologue considère cette scène comme étant la plus belle de tout le Moyen Empire. D’ailleurs, c’est une preuve de la présence de cette chapelle et de la statue colossale à l’époque de la construction, alors qu’on ne sait pas où elles sont aujourd’hui.

Les scènes décoratives de la paroi est de la tombe ont été détruites et se trouvent actuellement dans plusieurs musées, comme le Musée Égyptien du Caire, le British Museum en Angleterre et le Museum of Fine Arts à Boston et à Florence. D’après DE MAYER, les informations publiées en 1894 sur la tombe de Djéhoutyhotep, découverte il y a plus d’un siècle, comportent beaucoup d’erreurs. « Nous sommes en train de préparer une nouvelle publication basée sur les documentations récentes et correctes », souligne l’égyptologue.

Toujours dans la colline nord, la tombe du premier gouverneur du Moyen Empire, Ahanakht, a été mise au jour. Il s’agit d’une vaste tombe qui renferme 4 puits et deux salles. Malheureusement, les reliefs de cette tombe sont tombés et ont été abîmés par les séismes qui ont frappé le site. La nécropole du Moyen Empire se présente donc tel un grand puzzle à réorganiser.

La mission du Katholieke Universiteit Leuven a découvert de plus une route qui relie la colline nord au désert, ce dernier renfermant à son tour plusieurs cimetières datant du début du Moyen Empire, de l’Ancien Empire et de la Première Période intermédiaire. Cette nécropole comprend des squelettes intacts et de modestes poteries. La mission est actuellement en train de chercher les anciennes branches du Nil, afin de connaître le paysage de l’époque, tout en

poursuivant la restauration, la documentation et les publications sur le site. (Doaa Elhami, « Dayr al-Barshâ et ses nécropoles », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 23 mai 2018).

- -

Police in Naples, Italy have seized a number of parcels filled with artefacts from several countries, including ancient Egyptian artefacts.

Sha‘bân ‘Abd al-Gawwâd, the head of the Egyptian antiquities ministry’s Repatriation Department, said that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported the incident to the Ministry of Antiquities, which assigned a special archaeological committee to confirm the authenticity of the seized artefacts by examining their photos.

‘Abd al-Gawwâd said that the objects were stolen from illegal excavation sites, as there is no record of them existing in any Egyptian museum or store gallery.

The artefacts include a collection of pottery from different Pharaonic eras, as well as parts of sarcophagi and coins. Also among the artefacts were objects from the Islamic period.

‘Abd al-Gawwâd said that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working with Italian authorities to return the objects to Egypt. (Nevine El-Aref, “Collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts seized in Naples, Italy”, Ahram Online, May 23, 2018. Voir également Mahmûd al-Badawî, « Nouvelles révélations du ministère des Affaires étrangères à propos des 23 000 pièces archéologiques volées en Italie », al-Watan, 23 mai ; Fâyza Muhammad, « Le ministère des Affaires étrangères dévoile la réalité sur les pièces archéologiques volées à Rome », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 23 mai ; Hiba

M a i 2 0 1 8


‘Âdil, « Saisie à Naples de pièces pharaoniques volées », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 23 mai ; Muhammad ‘Uda, « Le ministère des Affaires étrangères révèle la saisie des pièces archéologiques volées à Rome », al-Tahrîr, 24 mai).

- -

Durant le XIXe et le début du XXe siècle, l’Égypte a vécu une période florissante dans tous les domaines, notamment dans l’architecture. Elle était un chantier fertile pour tous les architectes et décorateurs européens, surtout les Italiens parmi eux. C’est là le thème du livre Italian Achitectural and Artistic Heritage in Egypt, Documentation & Safegard, paru fin 2017 aux éditions Effigi. L’ouvrage regroupe les articles des professeurs et architectes italiens et égyptiens qui ont participé au 1er séminaire international portant le même titre et qui s’est tenu en 2015 à l’Institut culturel italien du Caire.

La couverture montre le palais royal de Muntazah à Alexandrie, qui a été réalisé par l’architecte italien Ernesto VERRUCCI Bey, alors qu’au dos du livre, le lecteur trouve la mosquée de Zamalek, qui revient à l’architecte italien renommé Mario ROSSI. Un choix de photos qui illustre bien la diversité des travaux effectués par les Italiens en Égypte. L’ouvrage est composé de 17 articles et exposés, rédigés en anglais par 13 experts italiens et 4 spécialistes égyptiens. Chacun met l’accent soit sur la vie d’un architecte italien et ses œuvres, soit sur l’état actuel d’un certain édifice.

L’un des articles parle du rôle du Comité de Conservation des Monuments de l’Art Arabe, travaillant en coopération avec les architectes, contracteurs, dessinateurs et

décorateurs italiens, et montre comment le Comité émettait des critères de construction en insistant sur l’inspiration de l’architecture islamique dans les édifices érigés au Caire. Parmi les contributions italiennes les plus importantes en Égypte figurent celles de l’architecte Antonio BATTIGELLI, qui a réalisé la tombe du khédive Ismâ‘îl pacha à la mosquée al-Rifâ‘î en 1896, et la villa du consul danois Antoine DE ZOGHEIB réalisée par les deux frères BATTIGELLI (fils d’Antoine BATTIGELLI) en collaboration avec l’architecte hongrois Max HERZ. « L’importance de cette villa tient de l’utilisation de certains éléments de l’architecture mamelouke, fatimide et ayyoubide », souligne l’architecte italien Ezio GODOLI dans sa contribution.

En fait, les articles choisis mettent en évidence les constructions considérées comme étant les joyaux des architectes italiens en Égypte, à l’exemple de l’église al-Butrusiyya au Caire et de celle du Sacré-Cœur à Alexandrie. La première est l’un des chefs-d’œuvre de l’architecte Antonio LASCIAC. Sous la demande de la famille Boutros Ghali, propriétaire du terrain puis de l’église, Antonio LASCIAC l’a réalisée avec un intérieur conçu sur le modèle de la basilique chrétienne primitive de Ravenne en Italie. Des scènes religieuses couvrent les murs ainsi que les mosaïques des semi-dômes du presbytère.

LASCIAC était l’un des grands architectes italiens et a contribué à la construction de plusieurs édifices en Égypte, puisqu’il était le directeur des palais khédiviaux sous le règne du khédive ‘Abbâs Hilmî. De même, il était

M a i 2 0 1 8


l’architecte de plusieurs palais de Sa‘îd Halîm pacha, dont l’un à la rue Champollion et l’autre, le palais al-Tahra, à Kubrî al-Qubba, ainsi que de l’immeuble de Groppi à la place Tal‘at Harb et de l’édifice de la Banque Misr à la place Mustafa Kâmil.

Quant à la seconde église, celle du Sacré-Cœur d’Alexandrie, elle est « une icône italienne dans l’inventaire alexandrin », selon le titre de l’article de la professeure des beaux-arts Zaynab Nûr. L’église du Sacré-Cœur, dressée dans le quartier alexandrin Ibrâhîmiyya, était le joyau de la communauté latine en Égypte. Elle a été construite par le contracteur italien Ugo DESSBERG et planifiée et dessinée par l’architecte italien Domenico LIMONGELLI. La façade de l’église est influencée par le style néobaroque, qui était en vogue à Alexandrie à cette époque. Les scènes religieuses des murs et des vitraux sont « élégantes », d’après les termes de l’experte Nûr.

Enfin, le livre renferme des photos inédites qui accompagnent et enrichissent chaque article, ce qui augmente les valeurs esthétique et scientifique de l’ouvrage. (Doaa Elhami, « Quand l’Égypte s’inspirait de l’Italie », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 23 mai 2018).

- -

Jeudi 24 mai 2018

The British Museum’s decision to display the boots of football player Muhammad Salâh next to a statue of the Pharaoh Ramses II is a scandal of international proportions, writes Zâhî Hawwâs.

I believe that Neal SPENCER, the curator of the Egyptian Department at the British

Museum in London, has committed a criminal act in putting the boots of Egyptian international footballer Muhammad Salâh inside the Egyptian Gallery of the museum in front of the statue of Ramses II.

I cannot believe that the authorities at the British Museum agreed to this crime. Some people have told me that the reason Salâh’s boots were placed there was to generate publicity for the museum as it could inspire Liverpool football fans, the team for which Salâh plays, to visit the museum. The museum would increase the number of its visitors and would also make money from Adidas, the company which manufactured Salâh’s boots. His name is now associated with the company’s products.

However, I think this is bad publicity as it shows that those behind it have no respect for Egyptian monuments and the Ancient Egyptian heritage. They do not deserve such great and beautiful objects, which truly represent a great civilisation, to be kept in their museum. The decision to place Salâh’s boots in the museum is simply cheap advertising. SPENCER’s act in placing the boots inside a display case was also astounding. I do not know why he wore gloves in order to place these boots in front of the statue of the great Pharaoh Ramses II.

Of course, we all love Salâh, who has become an icon for all Egyptians. I myself watch his games, and I have begun to be a Liverpool fan because of him. Salâh, a very modest man, also often helps the people of his village. However, his boots should be exhibited in a sports museum, not a museum that exhibits the ancient history of the Pharaohs. Salâh is also not an antiquarian object fitting a museum of this type. His place is in a sports museum, or in a hall of football legends.

It is quite a feat for him to have his boots put on display, celebrating his achievements, but the British Museum is not the correct place. This opinion has been reiterated by the Egyptian actor Nabîl al-Halafâwî on Twitter. Other Egyptians are also angry at the British Museum and its curator. One MP has

M a i 2 0 1 8


questioned the foreign minister and the Ministry of Antiquities in Egypt, asking how the British Museum could place Salâh’s boots in front of the Ancient Egyptian artefacts.

We are wondering if another player achieves scores the same or better than Salâh’s, will they also put his boots in the Egyptian Gallery? If so, the British Museum will become a museum not of culture but of shoes.

The archaeological artefacts and the art of the Pharaohs in the British Museum demonstrate the achievements of a great people who taught the world science, art, culture and technology. We cannot permit everyone who has achieved something in his career to put his boots near such great artefacts. How can we gaze at artefacts dating back 5,000 years and then see shoes beside them? Would we put the shoes of former presidents Gamâl ‘Abd al-Nâsir or Anwar al-Sâdât or of Nobel Prize-winning author Nagîb Mahfûz in the Egyptian Museum? The civilised world is laughing at SPENCER’s act, as he ought to respect what he oversees.

Why are the boots of football players Diego MARADONA, Lionel MESSI or Cristiano RONALDO not in museums in their home countries? The answer is that no curator in Brazil, Argentina or Portugal would agree to it. The artefacts of Ancient Egypt are in the British Museum, but their ownership is nevertheless Egyptian. We must have the right to stop such acts.

I remember that Dietrich WILDUNG, the then director of the Egyptian Museum in Berlin, once asked a sculptor to make a bronze sculpture of a woman, which he took to the museum. He put it next to the beautiful bust of the Ancient Egyptian queen Nefertiti. I criticised him fiercely at the time, mobilising the international community in protest against this act.

The staging of Salâh’s boots in the British Museum is ridiculous. WILDUNG’s act was unwise, but what SPENCER has done is more than that. He has lost our respect as a result. I do not think Salâh will agree to see his boots beside the great statue of Ramses II in the

museum, and I am sure he will understand our anger.

What can we do in response to this crime? The Permanent Committee of the Supreme Council of Antiquities should meet quickly and send a warning to the British Museum to remove these shoes immediately. If not, the archaeological expeditions of the British Museum in Egypt should be stopped.

I am sure that Ramses II is also not at all happy at the museum’s act. He will likely put his curse on SPENCER and others who made the decision to put Salâh’s boots in front of his statue. (Zâhî Hawwâs, “The boots of Muhammad Salâh”, Al-Ahram Weekly, May 24, 2018. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « L’archéologue en chef : Les musées ne sont pas faits pour y exposer les chaussures des footballeurs », Sada al-Balad, 18 mai ; Farah Tawfeek, “Decision to display Salâh’s shoes in British Museum sparks off dispute”, Egypt Independent, May 19; Zâhî Hawwâs, « Les chaussures de Muhammad Salâh », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 22 mai).

- -

The seized coins

The archaeological unit at Alexandria Port, in cooperation with the customs department, succeeded in foiling an attempt to smuggle 30 archaeological coins out of Egypt on Wednesday.

According to Hamdî Hammâm, head of the Central Administration of Seized Antiquities Units at the Ministry of Antiquities, customs officials reported the discovery of the coins to the port’s archaeological unit, which in turn assigned an archaeological committee from Alexandria’s Graeco-Roman Museum to inspect their authenticity.

M a i 2 0 1 8


The committee then verified the authenticity of the coins and seized them according to Egypt’s Antiquities Law No. 117 of 1983 and its amendments.

The seizure consists of 22 bronze coins dating back to the early Roman era and the period between the first and third centuries CE.

Also discovered were five bronze coins dating back more than 135 years. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egyptian authorities foil attempt to smuggle Roman-era coins through Port of Alexandria”, Ahram Online, May 24, 2018).

- -

A model of Amarna house

The Ministry of Antiquities has begun a project to develop the Amarna Visitors’ Centre in Minyâ in partnership with the University of Cambridge’s McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research.

The project is titled Delivering Sustainable Heritage Strategies for Rural Egypt: Community and Archaeology at Tell al-Amarna, and is funded by the Newton-Mosharafa Fund organised by the British Council and the Science and Technology Development Fund, according to Mustafa Wazîrî, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities at Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities.

The project’s main effort includes the development of the existing visitors’ centre at Tell al-Amarna, but also includes the development of outreach programmes, training for visitor centre staff, the preparation of a local guidebook, children’s education material, a film and an app for use at the site in association with the centre.

The project continues a long history of collaboration and partnership between the University of Cambridge and the Tell al-Amarna site.

The visitors’ centre was first opened in 2016 to highlight the reign of the quasi-monotheistic King Akhenaten by displaying replicas of the king’s tomb along with a collection of fully furnished palaces and houses in Amarna’s royal district. (Nevine El-Aref, “Tell al-Amarna Visitors’ Centre in Minyâ to receive upgrade”, Ahram Online, May 24, 2018).

- -


The House of Egyptian Architecture announced on its Facebook page it will host on Saturday evening an open forum with well-known journalist Hanân Haggâg titled Dealing with Egyptian Heritage.

Haggâg, who is a writer at al-Ahrâm Daily newspaper and has led initiatives to preserve Egyptian heritage, will discuss the urgent need to exert more efforts to preserve the country’s heritage, as well as the dangers that threaten its legacy.

According to the announcement, Haggâg will also discuss a recent controversial decree to move 55 historical pulpits from Islamic mosques to museums. (“Cultural forum: Journalist Hanân Haggâg discusses preservation of Egyptian heritage Saturday”, Ahram Online, May 25, 2018).

- -

Dimanche 27 mai 2018

The Ministry of Antiquities (MOA) along with tourism police have successfully thwarted a robbery of the Salâh al-Dîn Citadel’s external iron fence, which overlooks Salâh Sâlim Street.

Gamâl Mustafa, head of the Islamic and Coptic Antiquities Department at the MOA said that the citadel’s electronic control team had monitored suspicious movements at the outer fence, where they discovered five

M a i 2 0 1 8


people were trying to unscrew the iron fence and place it on a cart.

Mustafa then said that the area’s inspection officers immediately notified the Salâh al-Dîn Citadel’s Tourism and Antiquities Police, who immediately moved in personnel from Archaeological Security and arrested four of the robbers, who where then taken to the Cairo Antiquities Police Department.

General Manager of the Citadel Nâgî Hanafî said that an official record was filed, and the robbers who attempted the crime will be presented to the prosecution. (Hend El-Behary, “Police thwart attempt to steal iron fence of Salâh al-Dîn citadel”, Egypt Independent, May 27, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Échec d’une tentative de vol de la grille métallique de la citadelle du Caire », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 25 mai ; Ahmad Mansûr, « La police arrête 5 individus qui tentaient de voler la grille métallique de la citadelle du Caire », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 25 mai ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Tentative déjouée de vol de la grille métallique de la citadelle du Caire », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 26 mai).

- -

Mardi 29 mai 2018

The restored wooden beams holding up the ceiling of part of the arcade in the medieval mosque and madrasa of Sarghatmish

collapsed on Tuesday morning, Egypt’s antiquities ministry has said.

Gamâl Mustafa, head of the Islamic and Coptic Antiquities Department at the ministry, told Ahram Online that five wooden beams that were installed during the restoration work carried out at the mosque in 2005 to hold up the wooden ceiling of the mosque qibla’s riwâq (arcade) had collapsed.

He said that there are no casualties reported and the mosque, located in Cairo’s Sayyida Zaynab, is in good conservation condition, except for the fallen beams, and the decorative element that runs along the upper level of the mosque’s main façade.

An engineering company will now consolidate the mosque to avoid any further risk, and start the restoration of the ceiling, Mustafa said, while a cleaning crew from the Arab Contractors cleans the debris.

Cleaning crews inside Sarghatmish mosque and madrasa

The mosque-madrasa comprises an open court with a water fountain at its centre, surrounded by eight marble pillars and four iwân (vaulted halls). The mihrâb (the point faced during prayer) of the mosque has a panel of white marble with a medallion in the centre and four quarter-medallions in the corners.

Hidden among the leaf and stem forms of the arabesque design are six birds and five hands. On the north corner of the facade are finely carved mashrabiyya (wooden lattice) windows.

The mosque is located in al-Salîba Street close to such important Islamic monuments as the mosque of Ibn Tûlûn, the madrasa and sabîl-kuttâb of Sultan Qâytbây, the Gayer Anderson House, the mosque of Taghrî Badrî and the mosque and madrasa of Hasan Pasha Tâhir.

M a i 2 0 1 8


Until the 14th century, the area was dotted with waste and rubbish heaps along with cemeteries and private estates. The redevelopment of the citadel under Sultan al-Nâsir Muhammad led to the transformation of this zone into an urban area, and al-Salîba Street became a major thoroughfare. Princes built town houses, palaces, mosques and schools in the area.

The mosque and madrasa of Sarghatmish are attached to the northeast wall of the Ibn Tûlûn mosque and were originally part of the Ibn Tûlûn complex, but were later turned into houses.

In 1356 these houses were demolished by Prince Sarghatmish, a Mamluk in the reign of al-Nâsir Muhammad Ibn Qalâwwûn, so he could build his own mosque and madrasa.

This renowned Mamluk prince was the jamandara (wardrobe keeper) of al-Nâsir Muhammad Ibn Qalâwwûn. His prominence dates from the reigns of al-Nâsir’s minor sons, when he took an active part in battles waged on their behalf.

In 1354, supporting Prince Shaykhû, he was one of the principal agents in the re-election of Sultan Hasan, and after Shaykhû’s assassination he became the amîr kabîr or "great prince".

He was virtual ruler of Egypt for Hasan, who in 1358 had Sarghatmish thrown into prison and put to death. He was buried under the dome of his madrasa.

The Sarghatmish madrasa is a good example of the type founded in the mid-14th century by Mamluk emirs in support of higher Qur’anic studies, prophetic traditions and jurisprudence. (Nevine El-Aref, “Part of arcade ceiling collapses at Cairo’s medieval Sarghatmish mosque and madrasa”, Ahram Online, May 29, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Chute partielle du plafond de l’arcade en face de la Qibla dans la mosquée Sarghatmish », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 29 mai ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Effondrement de fragments du plafond de la mosquée Sarghatmish à Sayyida Zaynab », Sada al-Balad, 29 mai ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Chute partielle du plafond d’une arcade

dans la mosquée Sarghatmish », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 29 mai ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Effondrement de poutres en bois du plafond de la mosquée Sarghatmish à Sayyida Zaynab », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 29 mai).

- -


Le secrétaire général du Conseil Suprême des Antiquités, Dr Mustafa Wazîrî, a procédé à une série de remaniements au sein du personnel de la zone archéologique d’Aswân et de Nubie :

— Khâlid Ahmad Shawqî est nommé directeur des antiquités d’Abû Simbil.

— Husâm al-Dîn ‘Abbûd devient directeur de la publication scientifique à Qinâ.

— Ahmad Hasan ‘Abd al-Mâgid est nommé inspecteur en chef des antiquités d’Abû Simbil.

— Magdî Muhammad ‘Awad devient directeur des temples rupestres de Nubie.

— Sayyid Ahmad ‘Abd al-Râwî est nommé superviseur de l’Administration des carrières et des mines. (Samar al-Naggâr, « Remaniements au sein de la zone archéologique d’Aswân et de Nubie », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 30 mai 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le secrétaire général du CSA réorganise le travail dans la zone archéologique d’Aswân et de Nubie », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 30 mai ; Ahmad Mansûr, « 4 remaniements au sein de la zone archéologique d’Aswân et de Nubie », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 30 mai ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Changement parmi les cadres de la zone archéologique d’Aswân et de Nubie », Sada al-Balad, 30 mai).

- -

Jeudi 31 mai 2018

The world’s appetite for antiquities seems to be endless, and as long as there is demand, the illegal excavations and the smuggling of antiquities continue. Unscrupulous collectors are always on the lookout for artefacts to add

M a i 2 0 1 8


to their collections and are prepared to pay large sums to acquire the objects of their desires.

The breakdown in security that followed the collapse of the Iraqi and Libyan regimes, the ongoing conflict in Syria, and the 25 January Revolution in Egypt have all encouraged the illicit looting and trading in antiquities with illegal entities such as the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group using the trade as a source of revenues to finance their operations.

Smuggled artefacts seized

As if to bear out such concerns, late last week the Italian police in the shape of the Carabinieri forces for the protection of cultural heritage in Naples and Rome and the Salerno customs office seized containers filled with stolen archaeological artefacts from Egypt and other countries from a cargo ship docked in the port of Salerno.

La Città, a daily newspaper, reported that the archaeological finds had been stolen by IS terrorists and included an Ancient Egyptian mask covered with gold, a sarcophagus and a terracotta model of a boat with 40 rowers. Investigations are underway to trace the origin of these pieces, which represent only a small fraction of what was in the container.

Ottopagine, an Italian news website, reported that the investigations would try to trace the provenance of the objects. It said the seized collection was now being held in an archaeological museum in Nocera Inferiore, a city in Campania that also hosts other artefacts scheduled to be transferred to their countries of origin.

The website claimed that the ship carrying the container had come from the Egyptian port of Alexandria.

Egypt’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement refuting reports claiming that the seized goods were found inside a container belonging to the Egyptian Embassy in Rome.

Ahmad Abû Zayd, spokesman for the ministry, said in the statement that the Italian Antiquities and Tourism Police had informed the Egyptian Embassy in Rome that they had seized 23,700 artefacts, including 118 Ancient Egyptian items enclosed inside a diplomatic container.

Smuggled artefacts seized

“The Egyptian Embassy immediately sent a CD containing images of the artefacts to the cultural department at the Foreign Ministry in Cairo to brief the Ministry of Antiquities and verify their authenticity and to respond to the inquiries of the Italian officials in order to complete the investigations,” the statement said.

Abû Zayd added that the Egyptian Embassy in Rome had also contacted the deputy commander of the Italian Tourism and Antiquities Police, as well as the Italian Foreign Ministry, to clarify whether the container had originated from Alexandria or had only passed through the port on its way to Italy.

“The Italian side reported that their contacts in the customs administration at the port had indicated that the artefacts were found last year and the shipment did not belong to an Egyptian diplomat but to an Italian citizen,” the statement said.

Italian officials promised to provide further clarification on the container’s departure date

M a i 2 0 1 8


and the exporting party at the earliest opportunity.

“The ministry is following up with the Italian side through the Egyptian Embassy in Rome to uncover all the details related to the incident and to hold accountable those responsible for smuggling the Egyptian artefacts, if their authenticity is indeed proven,” the statement concluded.

Sha’bân ‘Abd al-Gawwâd, head of the Egyptian Antiquities Ministry’s Repatriation Department, told Al-Ahram Weekly that the ministry had appointed a special archaeological committee to look into the authenticity of the 118 Ancient Egyptian artefacts seized by the Naples Police. The committee had validated the authenticity of the majority of them, he said.

He said the objects had been stolen from illegal excavation sites, as there was no record of them in any Egyptian museum or storage facility.

The artefacts include a collection of pottery from different Pharaonic eras, as well as parts of sarcophagi and coins. They also include objects from the Islamic period. ‘Abd al-Gawwâd said the Foreign Ministry was working with the Italian authorities to return the objects to Egypt.

He added that according to a memorandum of understanding signed in 2009 between Egypt and Italy, Ancient Egyptian objects would be returned to their homeland.

Over the last decade, Egypt has signed several bilateral agreements with Italy, Spain, Cyprus, Greece, Peru, the United States and other countries on the illicit trade in antiquities in an attempt to return stolen and illegally smuggled antiquities.

A UNESCO 1971 Convention on the matter does not guarantee the recovery of stolen objects and has not been signed by all the world’s countries.

“For several years now, the Egyptian authorities have been actively pursuing the return of artefacts that have been illegally

smuggled out of the country,” ‘Abd al-Gawwâd told the Weekly, adding that in the last two years Egypt had succeeded in recovering 1,000 objects that had been stolen and illegally smuggled.

Egyptian Prosecutor-General Nabîl Sâdiq has tasked the Ministry of Antiquities with sending a team of archaeological experts to Italy to examine the Ancient Egyptian artefacts.

According to an official statement, the prosecution authorities said the experts would work in collaboration with the Italian authorities to inspect the seized artefacts and prepare a report for the prosecution, which has requested official assistance on the incident from the Italian judicial services. (Nevine El-Aref, “Smuggled artefacts seized”, Al-Ahram Weekly, May 31, 2018. Voir également “Foreign Affairs Ministry denies artifacts were smuggled by Egyptian diplomat”, Egypt Independent, May 24; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Les pièces saisies en Italie proviennent des fouilles archéologiques illicites », Sada al-Balad, 25 mai ; Imân Shawqî, « Le ministère égyptien des Affaires étrangères exige de l’Italie des informations sur l’exportation illicite d’antiquités dans une valide diplomatique », Watanî, 25 mai ; Nasma Réda, « Antiquités : Une nouvelle affaire de trafic révélée au grand jour », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 30 mai).

- -

Zaghlûl Mosque before restoration

The Zaghlûl Mosque now stands waiting for worshippers and visitors in Shaykh Qandîl Street in the centre of the Delta coastal city of Rosetta, after it was officially reopened last

M a i 2 0 1 8


week by Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî after 13 years of restoration.

The mosque, like other Islamic monuments in Rosetta, had been suffering from environmental dangers including high subsoil water levels, high levels of humidity, and the leakage of water from the madiaa (the water fountain used for ablutions), as well as the city’s decaying sewage system.

Rosetta lacks central drainage, and trenches gather sewage beneath the ground forming streams that can reach the basements of the city’s monuments. The topography of Rosetta and the urban clusters on the west bank of the Nile have contributed to the deterioration of the monuments, as most of the city is located on relatively elevated land sloping towards the Nile on a lower level.

The mosque had suffered serious cracks and fissures in its walls and ceilings as a result, and floors had partially collapsed, masonry had been lost, and splendid mashrabiyya (turned wood) widows and façades had been broken. Faience tiles decorating its façades had been damaged and stained with dust. Many of the original bricks used in the mosque’s construction had decayed and lost some of their original features.

Zaghlûl Mosque after restoration

“One of the most serious causes of the damage was the abuse of the mosque by worshippers as well as the encroachment of traders over the centuries,” Wa’d Allâh Abû al-‘Ilâ, head of the Projects Sector at the Ministry of Antiquities, said, adding that the restoration work had started in 2005 when the walls of the mosque had cracked, the masonry was damaged, and the condition of the ceiling and water fountain was critical. The ceiling

decorations were heavily stained with smoke, while most of the flooring was broken. The mosque had been closed to prayer and visitors.

“What has been opened this week is only the first phase of the restoration project, and it was done in order to enable worshippers to pray during the month of Ramadan,” Abû al-‘Ilâ said, adding that the work had included the consolidation of the building’s foundations and the restoration of its western section. Restoration work has started in the eastern section and includes the dismantling of the domes, walls and pillars in order to consolidate the foundations.

The old entrance of al-Mahallî Mosque

al-‘Inânî said the restoration had been carried out according to the latest scientific methods. “Every effort has been made to ensure that all the original architectural features of the mosque were retained,” he said, adding that the restoration had had the advantage that important monuments were being preserved for future generations and the entire neighbourhood was being revived and upgraded.

Gamâl Mustafa, head of the Islamic and Coptic Antiquities Sector at the Ministry of Antiquities, said the aim of the restoration was mainly to strengthen the foundations of the mosque and to protect them from future damage. This had been achieved using a micro-pile system, he said, which involved the installation of sharp pointed columns beneath the mosque to reinforce its foundations.

The walls were reinforced, missing and decayed stones were replaced, and masonry cleaned and desalinated, he added.

M a i 2 0 1 8


Parts of the damaged floor of the water fountain have been dismantled, restored, and replaced in their original position. Missing Qur’anic texts embellishing the mosque’s walls have been completed, and the authentic floor of the Mosque has been cleaned. Missing pieces have been replaced.

The Zaghlûl Mosque is in fact two mosques joined together. Incorporated into its structure are almost 300 columns of varying sizes salvaged from older buildings. It is the most famous mosque in Rosetta, and it played a prominent role in the 19th century, as it was from here that the signal to attack invading British forces associated with the 1807 Frazer Campaign was made.

The mosque, which is bigger than al-Azhar in Cairo, was thus once a symbol of popular struggle.

Residents of Rosetta are proud of the historical importance of their city. “I come to the Mosque of Zaghlûl regularly with my children to teach them how Rosetta’s population defended their country through their belief in God,” said Mus‘ad Hamza, a local resident. “The Zaghlûl Mosque is not an ordinary mosque. It is a symbol of the struggle of the people of Rosetta,” echoed resident Ahmad Mitwallî.

The mosque was built in Egypt’s Circassian Mameluke period in 1577 CE. It is one of the largest in Rosetta, covering some 4,000 square metres and located at the intersection of the three main streets of the city.

The mosque is composed of a qibla iwân (prayer hall) with 10 riwâqs (arcades or porticos) resting on stilted pointed arches supported by marble columns. The western iwân is composed of three riwâqs, and the eastern one consists of four. The mosque’s roof has some 50 domes, and as in other local mosques the 300 columns holding it up are a motley miscellany taken from older buildings of assorted historical periods.

Restoration work is also being carried out on the city’s al-Mahallî Mosque in order to open it to the public. Abû al-‘Ilâ said this mosque suffered from similar problems to the Zaghlûl Mosque and work was continuing on schedule.

The al-Mahallî Mosque is a tiny mosque whose elements feel random. It has six entrances with different gates and decorative features. It has 99 columns, each of which is unique. Taken from other religious buildings, they may represent the continuity of older practices that reflect the continuities in the hearts of believers. The mosque was built in the 15th century by Shaykh ‘Alî al-Mahallî who died in 1495 in Rosetta. (Nevine El-Aref, “Rosetta mosque reopens”, Al-Ahram Weekly, May 31, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Inauguration de la mosquée Zaghlûl à Rosette », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 15 mai ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure la mosquée Zaghlûl à Rosette », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 15 mai ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Inauguration de la première phase de restauration de la mosquée Zaghlûl à Rosette », Watanî, 15 mai ; Nasma Réda, « La mosquée Zaghlûl accueille à nouveau les fidèles », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 30 mai).

- -

In collaboration with al-Athâr Lînâ, an NGO, the Historic Cairo Rehabilitation Project (HCRP) is to develop the open courtyard in front of the Ahmad Kuhya Mosque in Islamic Cairo into a stage for cultural activities, lectures and events.

Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Azîz, head of the HCRP, said the project was a step towards the preservation of the site as despite previous efforts to restore the courtyard its closure had

M a i 2 0 1 8


led to its becoming a rubbish dump for the area’s inhabitants, leading to problems not only for the wider area but also for the health of its inhabitants and the mosque itself.

clockwise from left: The courtyard after rehabilitation; the design to

be developed

As part of the restoration work, all the rubbish would be removed, the wooden pergolas repaired, and the floor level would be raised to prevent the leakage of subterranean water into the mosque, he said. A new lighting system would be installed to use the courtyard at night.

“The courtyard will be a cultural hub for the area’s inhabitants where lectures can be delivered as well as musical performances,” ‘Abd al-‘Azîz said, adding that literacy and other classes would also be organised.

al-Athâr Lînâ (the monuments are ours) is a participatory conservation initiative that aims to encourage grassroots participation in heritage conservation based on an understanding of monuments as a resource and not a burden. Only when cultural heritage is beneficial to the community will the community become an active partner in its conservation and conservation become a true vehicle for development.

The NGO is run by the built environment collective Mugawra, a twin organisation including an architecture firm. It started in June 2012 with a participatory design workshop focusing on the neighbourhood of al-Khalîfa in Islamic Cairo.

This neighbourhood stretches from the Ibn Tûlûn Mosque in the north to the al-Sayyida Nafîsa Shrine in the south and is known for its impressive listed monuments dating from the ninth to the 19th centuries. (Nevine El-Aref, “New venue in al-Khalîfa”, Al-Ahram Weekly, May 31, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie lance les travaux de réhabilitation de la mosquée Ahmad Kuhya », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 20 mai ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie lance les travaux de réhabilitation de la mosquée Ahmad Kuhya », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 20 mai ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie met en place un projet global pour la réhabilitation de la mosquée Ahmad Kuhya », Sada al-Balad, 20 mai ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Réhabilitation de la mosquée Ahmad Kuhya à al-Khalîfa », Watanî, 21 mai).

-

- -

-


VI – JUIN 2018

Dimanche 3 juin 2018

Part of the collapsed minaret

A nearly 300-year-old mosque whose minaret collapsed in Qinâ governorate on Sunday morning is not on the country’s antiquities list, the Supreme Council of Antiquities has said.

Several websites and social media platforms published articles about the collapsed minaret of al-Tayyib Mosque in the city of Qûs, accusing the Ministry of Antiquities of negligence.

Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, denied blame and asserted in a press release that the minaret and the mosque were not registered on Egypt’s antiquities list for Islamic monuments because they did not meet the required archaeological criteria and standards.

Gamâl Mustafa, head of the Islamic, Coptic and Jewish Antiquities Department at the antiquities ministry told Ahram Online that the minaret was the oldest architectural element of the mosque, and in 2005 the Ministry of Endowments rebuilt the mosque due to its bad construction and architectural condition.

al-Ahrâm Arabic reported the mosque was originally built in 1147 AH (1734-5 AD). (Nevine El-Aref, “Qinâ mosque whose minaret collapsed is not on Egyptian heritage list, says official”, Ahram Online, June 3, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le président

des antiquités islamiques : Le minaret d’al-Tayyib n’est pas classé sur la liste du patrimoine », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 3 juin ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : La mosquée al-Tayyib à Qinâ n’est pas enregistrée sur la liste du patrimoine », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 3 juin ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Les réseaux sociaux prétendent le classement du minaret d’al-Tayyib, alors que le ministère de l’Archéologie nie », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 3 juin ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Wazîrî : Le minaret de la mosquée al-Tayyib à Qinâ n’est pas classé », Sada al-Balad, 3 juin).

- -

Chief of the General Tourist Guide Syndicate Hasan al-Nahla urged President ‘Abd al-Fattâh al-Sîsî to support Alexandria hosting the 26th congress for the ‘International Council of Museums’ (ICOM), running from 4-9 September in 2022, after it was shortlisted alongside two other cities; Oslo and Prague.

The winning city will be selected on June 8 in Paris, al-Nahla said.

Egypt increased efforts on Friday to persuade world countries into selecting Alexandria after the international committee of ICOM visited it in April 2018 and praised its readiness to host the congress.

al-Nahla clarified that the congress is considered the biggest tourist and cultural conference in which five thousand people from 120 countries will participate.

Meanwhile, the Chief of Egypt’s ICOM National Committee Khâlid ‘Azab said that a volunteer from Alexandria city designed the congress’s logo, taking it’s design after the famous Alexandria lighthouse.

‘Azab added that the submission is internationally welcomed by China, Ecuador, Chad, Pakistan, Tunisia, Morocco and more.

J u i n 2 0 1 8


The national committee and the African committees from the United Nation’s Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) will lunch a campaign starting from June 6 to encourage it’s member states to select Alexandria in hosting the congress for first time in Africa, ‘Azab clarified. (“Alexandria likely to host ICOM Congress in 2022”, Egypt Independent, June 3, 2018).

- -

Mardi 5 juin 2018

The collapsed residential house

A fire broke out early Tuesday morning in a residential house near the Ottoman-era sabîl-kuttâb (water fountain and school building) of Umm Muhammad ‘Alî al-Saghîr, located in al-Gabrûnî alley behind al-Fath Mosque on Ramses Street in downtown Cairo.

Gamâl Mustafa, head of the Islamic, Coptic and Jewish Antiquities Department at the Ministry of Antiquities, told Ahram Online that the residential house was engulfed in flames and collapsed without any casualties, but causing minor deterioration to parts of the isolation layer and that wooden beams from the ceiling of the kuttâb’s right wing were found to have fallen onto the sabîl’s second floor.

He said that the fire was extinguished and an archaeological committee was assigned to inspect every part of the sabîl-kuttâb to write a full detailed report of the incident to give to the minister of antiquities and collaborate with

all relevant ministries and Cairo governorate. The projects sector of the Ministry of Antiquities has started the required procedures to consolidate the edifice and secure it.

Mustafa said that the sabîl-kuttâb belongs to the Ministry of Endowments and is rented to several organizations, including al-Ahrâm and al-Akhbâr newspapers and others, for commercial storage, residence and industrial security.

The facade of the sabîl-kuttâb

Sabîl-kuttâb was put on Egypt’s Heritage List in line with ministerial decree 188 of 1989. “The Ministry of Antiquities has asked the Ministry of Endowments several times to discontinue the rentals because they are threatening the monumental edifice, but they never reply to our request,” Mustafa told Ahram Online.

J u i n 2 0 1 8


The sabîl-kuttâb was built by Zîbâ Qâdin, the mother of Muhammad ‘Alî Pasha in 1869. It was designed by architect Hasan Pasha Fahmî and includes a ground floor for the sabîl and a higher level for the kuttâb. (Nevine El-Aref, “Ottoman-era sabîl-kuttâb building damaged in downtown Cairo fire”, Ahram Online, June 5, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Incendie du toit en bois du sabîl-kuttâb Umm Muhammad ‘Alî situé place Ramsès », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 5 juin ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Incendie partiel du sabîl Umm Muhammad ‘Alî », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 5 juin ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie révèle les dégâts causés par l’incendie du sabîl Umm Muhammad ‘Alî », Sada al-Balad, 5 juin ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Incendie dans la ruelle al-Gabrûnî, place Ramsès », Watanî, 5 juin ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Incendie limité du toit du sabîl-kuttâb Umm Muhammad ‘Alî », al-Ahrâm, 6 juin).

- -

© Sa‘îd Nâfi‘

Supervisor for Museum Establishments in Upper Egypt Ahmad Humayda announced that third phase of construction for the Akhenaten Museum, located in Minyâ city, is now underway.

Phase Three is expected to cost around LE 200 million and will include the final

renovations, showcases and security equipment, alongside monitoring devices and lighting equipment.

Akhenaten has been named as one of the largest three museums in Egypt, next to the Grand Egyptian Museum and the al-Fustât Museum.

Humayda said that the idea to establish this museum began in the late 1990s, when Minyâ’s former Governor Hasan Humayda chose 25 feddans (area units) for construction, adding that while the museum is German-designed the logistical planning was done by Egyptians.

He added that the first and second phases of the museum cost LE 130 million, but the building was paused after the January 25 revolution in 2011, and resumed after President ‘Abd al-Fattâh al-Sîsî came into presidency in 2014.

Construction began in 2005, and includes five stories. The museum is pyramid shaped and expected to include exhibition rooms in addition to a restoration school, as well as an outdoor exhibition area and a port to receive cruises.

The final touches to the museum will be finalized following the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, Humayda said. (Farah Tawfeek, “Egypt to inaugurate one of its largest antiquities museums soon”, Egypt Independent, June 5, 2018. Voir également Sa‘îd Nâfi‘, « Le musée Atonien à Minyâ : un chef-d’œuvre en attente des dernières retouches », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 3 juin ; Sa‘îd Nâfi‘, « Lancement de la troisième phase des travaux du musée Atonien », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 5 juin).

- -

Mercredi 6 juin 2018

At the edge of the ancient pyramids of Gîza, some 5,000 construction workers labour around the clock to finish the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum.

Expected to open by the end of this year, the 5.2-million-square-foot structure will

J u i n 2 0 1 8


become the world’s largest museum devoted to a single civilization.

“This will be the museum of the 21st century,” said its director general, Târiq Tawfîq.

“All means of modern technology have been taken into consideration in order to make this an unforgettable experience for the visitor, but at the same time provide the best possible environment for the artifacts.”

Costing more than $1 billion, the museum will re-house and restore some of the country’s most precious relics. Its expansive, glass-fronted building offers sweeping panoramas of the Gîza plateau and Great Pyramids, which stand just two kilometres away.

“To have a building that harmonizes well with these pyramids and provides, for the next generation of young Egyptians, a place where they can really get to know the roots of the civilization of their history — this is something fantastic,” Tawfîq said.

When Muhammad Yusrî, a conservationist, received Tutankhamun’s sandals, he was told the artefact would be impossible to restore. The Pharaonic footwear, which dates back more than 3,500 years, was tattered. The soles had disintegrated and the once-intricate beading long destroyed — a priceless treasure seemingly lost forever. But Yusrî refused to give up.

“We created a new technique by using a special adhesive,” Yusrî said, presenting the now magnificent sandals. “(The condition) was very bad, and here I think it has come alive again.”

A conservator works on a statue of Amun-Ra in the heavy stone

room at the Grand Egyptian Museum conservation center. Credit: Dana Smillie

The artefact joins tens of thousands of others in the museum’s collection. Many have been revitalized by an army of conservationists and archaeologists, a long overdue operation for a country with thousands of years’ of civilization to preserve.

Some of the items might have been lost forever were it not for the Grand Egyptian Museum’s specialized labs, which now make up one of the largest conservation centers in the world.

The facilities offer a new home to relics previously held by the notoriously crowded Egyptian Museum, in central Cairo’s Tahrîr Square, once considered the country’s leading history institution.

“The museum at Tahrîr is now 117 years old,” Tawfîq said. “It has become an artefact and heritage building itself. (In) its time, it was a great museum, but through the decades, it became more and more a store room”.

“At the Grand Egyptian Museum the artifacts really have enough space to be shown in their full splendour.”

The new museum’s first test — its soft opening — is scheduled for the end of this year, when a collection of Tutankhamun’s possessions will go on display in approximately one-third of the museum space.

The facility’s 17 labs are helping to prepare the boy king’s 50,000 artifacts. King Tut’s bed is being re-made by wood specialists, his jewellery is being strung back to life in the organics lab and the grand obelisks of his era are receiving facelifts in the heavy stones room.

J u i n 2 0 1 8


Using new technology and conservation techniques, every item in the collection is being re-examined. As a result, new discoveries have been among the dilapidated displays of previous museums.

Conservators work on the restoration of a chariot from

Tutankhamun’s tomb at the Wood Laboratory in the Grand Egyptian Museum’s conservation center. Credit: Dana Smillie

“My colleague… found that this tunic was, for 80 years, displayed on the wrong side,” said conservationist Îmân Shalabî, pointing to an ancient garment in a glass case. “This is actually the back of the tunic, not the front.”

Egypt has faced years of instability since the 2011 Arab Spring, which sparked the overthrow of then-President Husnî Mubârak and severely delayed construction of the Grand Egyptian Museum. Tourism, which once contributed more than 11% of the country’s GDP, was hit hard and has been slow to recover.

“Egyptians have always really held onto this project, knowing deep inside that this is something very important for them to provide a modern, safe environment for this priceless heritage,” said Tawfîq.

“Many people will be directly and indirectly benefiting from this project so, all in all, (it) will have an impact on Egypt and the tourism industry.” (“Egypt’s new $1 billion museum”, Egypt Independent, June 6, 2018. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Inauguration partielle du GEM premier trimestre 2019 », Sada al-Balad, 10 juin).

- -

Le ministère égyptien du Tourisme a décidé d’établir un pavillon destiné à promouvoir le tourisme en marge de l’exposition « L’Or des pharaons » organisée

par le ministère égyptien des Antiquités, au Grimaldi Forum Monaco en France, du 7 juillet au 9 septembre 2018. Cette décision est intervenue suite à un entretien qu’a eu la ministre égyptienne du Tourisme, Rânyâ al-Mashât, avec une délégation de tour-opérateurs, de journalistes et d’hommes de médias français spécialisés dans le tourisme égyptien, accompagnés de Christiane ZIEGLER, ancienne directrice du département d’archéologie égyptienne au musée du Louvre et commissaire de l’exposition « L’Or des pharaons ».

Lors de cet entretien, al-Mashât a assuré que le ministère du Tourisme multiplie ses efforts et entreprend de sérieuses démarches pour retrouver le même rythme du tourisme français de 2010. « Nous visons à accueillir 600 000 touristes français par an, soit 4 % du total des touristes », a assuré la ministre dans un communiqué de presse. Et d’ajouter qu’elle entend profiter de la tenue de l’exposition « L’Or des pharaons » à Monaco, afin de faire la promotion du tourisme égyptien dans le marché français.

Bracelet en or de Ramsès II. Photo : Jürgen Liepe

En fait, les expositions de pièces antiques sont les meilleurs ambassadeurs du tourisme égyptien, surtout auprès des peuples connus

J u i n 2 0 1 8


par leur égyptomanie comme les Français. « On a déjà une expérience réussie avec l’exposition L’Ère des bâtisseurs des pyramides, qui a fait le tour de plus de 8 villes au Japon en 2015. Cette exposition est la raison principale de la hausse considérable du nombre de touristes japonais qui ont voyagé en Égypte à cette époque. Je crois aussi que l’exposition du jeune roi Toutankhamon tenue aux États-Unis ou celle des antiquités islamiques au Canada sont l’une des raisons de la reprise du mouvement du tourisme en Égypte à l’heure actuelle », explique Magdî Silîm, ex-vice-ministre du Tourisme.

Pour sa part, ZIEGLER a noté, lors de cet entretien, que l’Égypte avance à pas sûrs sur la voie du développement touristique et qu’elle réussira bientôt à retrouver sa place sur la carte touristique mondiale. Elle a aussi salué les démarches du ministère égyptien du Tourisme, afin d’investir de nouveaux marchés touristiques, et ne pas se restreindre uniquement aux anciens.

Diadème de Sathathoriounet. © Laboratoriorosso Srl

L’égyptologue française rappelle que le musée Grimaldi avait déjà abordé une thématique égyptienne en 2008 avec l’exposition « Reines d’Égypte ». « Une exposition qui avait remporté un grand succès à cette époque, et ces années étaient l’âge

d’or du tourisme français en Égypte », indique ZIEGLER.

En fait, l’exposition « L’Or des pharaons » réunit plus de 150 chefs-d’œuvre du Musée du Caire relatant plus de 2 500 ans de l’histoire de l’orfèvrerie en Égypte ancienne. Elle présente une série d’ensembles prestigieux découverts dans les tombes royales et princières de l’Égypte pharaonique. Selon le site du Grimaldi Forum Monaco, au-delà d’une présentation de somptueux ensembles (bijoux, vases, bracelets, pendentifs, ceintures d’orfèvrerie, miroirs à disque d’or, colliers, sarcophages, masques funéraires et meubles plaqués or) et des documents illustrés retraçant leurs découvertes, l’exposition interroge également le statut de ces œuvres qui sont l’une des formes d’expression artistique les plus anciennes et les plus universelles. (Dalia Farouq, « D’une pierre deux coups », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 6 juin 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « 150 pièces archéologiques égyptiennes exposées en France », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 26 juin).

- -

Jeudi 7 juin 2018

Twenty months after its inspection to ascertain its state of conservation, the al-Tanbaghâ al-Mârdânî Mosque in the al-Darb al-Ahmar area of Islamic Cairo is to be restored.

Earlier this week, the Ministry of Antiquities and the Aga Khan Cultural Services-Egypt (AKCs-E) signed a memorandum of understanding to restore and rehabilitate the mosque and the creation of visitor routes around the area’s monuments.

POLIO examining the mosque

J u i n 2 0 1 8


The memorandum came 20 months after a visit by French expert Christophe POLIO of the Aga Khan Historic Cities Programme (AKHCP) to examine the condition of the mosque as a step towards drawing up a plan for its restoration.

The mosque has problems due to erosion. There is a high level of humidity and accumulated salts on its walls due to the leakage of water from nearby streets. Its location in a busy residential area has added to its deterioration due to the negative behaviour of area inhabitants. It was also subject to poor restoration practices in 1896 by the Arab Heritage Conservation Committee, responsible for Islamic monuments in Egypt at the time.

After his inspection tour in 2016, POLIO told Al-Ahram Weekly that the prayer hall (iwân al-qibla) was the most damaged part of the mosque and needed to be completely rehabilitated. Cracks had spread over the walls and its woodwork and marble were in a very bad condition.

Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Azîz, supervisor of the Historic Cairo Rehabilitation Project, told the Weekly that according to the memorandum the restoration work would be carried out as a joint venture between the AKCS-E and its affiliate Mezala for Social Development, al-Darb al-Ahmar Community Development and the Ministry of Antiquities.

It would provide for the rehabilitation of the mosque and the activation of visitor circuits alongside major cultural and archaeological attractions in the district, leading to the creation of employment opportunities and income-generating activities for residents and businesses.

‘Abd al-‘Azîz explained that the work would last for 26 months and focus on three major aspects: the conservation of the eastern side of the mosque; the creation of visitor routes extending from the northern tip of al-Azhar Park towards al-Darb al-Ahmar through the historic Ayyubid Walls and the Bâb al-Wazîr Gate; and the creation of employment and economic improvements through the

promotion of local crafts related to the increased visitation of the area.

Shirîf ‘Iryân, chief executive of AKCS-E, said that the full success of the project could only be achieved through the strict observance of certain fundamental principles by the parties and their designated affiliates, which would need to agree on the need for the protection and celebration of the tangible and intangible cultural heritage of al-Darb al-Ahmar.

“This can be achieved through balancing the physical rehabilitation with social, economic, cultural and recreational expectations,” ‘Iryân said.

“Embedding the proposed strategy for increasing visitation levels for al-Darb al-Ahmar is another aspect of the project,” ‘Abd al-‘Azîz told the Weekly, adding that this would be implemented through visitor routes, the creation of a visitor centre, and improved landscaping around the centre.

The installation of efficient infrastructure supporting the visitor routes, such as public conveniences, lighting, signage, and security systems accompanied by CCTV cameras, would also be important, he said.

The al-Tanbaghâ al-Mârdânî Mosque was built in the style of congregational (Friday) mosques and is located just outside the Bâb Zuwayla Gate in Islamic Cairo by the Mameluke emir al-Tanbaghâ al-Mârdânî during the reign of his father-in-law the Sultan al-Nâsir Muhammad.

The mosque has a hypostyle plan similar to the Mosque of al-Nâsir in the same area, and its outer walls are decorated in typical Mameluke style. At the time of its building, it was one of the most extravagantly decorated mosques in Cairo, with a distinguished octagonal minaret and large dome, as well as other architectural innovations.

The mosque now has a court surrounded by four aisles. The deepest and largest is the one in the direction of prayer. In the centre of the nave there is an octagonal fountain covered with marble. The façade of the northern aisle is covered with marble inscribed with the date of construction. The rest of the

J u i n 2 0 1 8


prayer-direction wall is covered with a fine marble dado, or panel, inlaid with mother of pearl.

The mosque has three entrances and a dome supported by eight granite pillars. Sultan al-Nâsir Muhammad’s master builder al-Mu‘allim al-Suyûfî supervised the construction work of the mosque, whose wood and marble decorative elements cost about 15,000 dirhams at the time, with total expenditure reaching over 300,000 dirhams, an enormous amount in the period.

al-Mârdânî was Sultan al-Nâsir Muhammad’s favoured cupbearer and married his daughter. He was appointed chief of the Cairo police, making him a senior emir in the Mameluke system. He continued in power in the reigns of Sultan Muhammad’s successors, dying in 1343 in Aleppo where he had been appointed as the city’s governor. (Nevine El-Aref, “Mameluke mosque to be restored”, Al-Ahram Weekly, June 7, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Signature d’un mémorandum d’accord avec l’AKTC pour la restauration de certains monuments à al-Darb al-Ahmar », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 31 mai).

- -

Le ministère de l’Archéologie a signé un protocole de coopération avec la Sinai Petroleum & Mining Services Co. (SSCO), afin d’entreprendre les travaux de restauration du moulin archéologique situé à Idku dans le gouvernorat d’al-Buhayra. Le secrétaire général du Conseil Suprême des Antiquités, Dr Mustafa Wazîrî, a souligné que ce protocole s’inscrit dans le cadre de la coopération entre son ministère et les différentes institutions de la société civile en vue de la sauvegarde du patrimoine égyptien.

Le moulin d’Idku est l’un des trois moulins historiques conservés en Égypte. Il est classé sur la liste du patrimoine islamique et copte, conformément à un décret ministériel datant de 1951. Ce moulin à vent destiné à moudre les céréales remonte à l’époque de Muhammad ‘Alî. Les travaux de restauration dureront quatre mois. (« Restauration du moulin à vent d’Idku », al-Ahrâm, 7 juin 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie commence la restauration du moulin à vent d’Idku », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 6 juin ; Mahmûd ‘Abd al-Bâqî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : Restauration et maintenance du moulin archéologique d’Idku », Vetogate, 6 juin ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Lancement des travaux de restauration du moulin archéologique d’Idku », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 6 juin ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie signe un protocole de coopération pour la restauration du moulin à vent d’Idku », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 6 juin ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Projet de restauration du moulin à vent d’Idku », Sada al-Balad, 6 juin ; Islâm Abû al-Wafâ, « Restauration du moulin à vent d’Idku », Watanî, 6 juin).

- -

The religious compound in Old Cairo where monuments from the three major monotheistic religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam are brought together for visitors was buzzing last Friday as people flocked to the area to attend a gala ceremony organised at the Coptic Museum to celebrate the Holy Family’s journey to Egypt.

J u i n 2 0 1 8


Patriarch of the Coptic Church Pope Tawadros attended the ceremony along with the ministers of antiquities, planning, tourism and immigration.

“The spirit of tolerance is overwhelming,” said Khâlid al-‘Inânî, the minister of antiquities, adding that it was particularly in evidence at the religious compound itself where the culture and heritage of thousands of years are embraced in a single street.

The compound is built around the ruins of the area’s Roman fortress and includes the ‘Amr Ibn al-‘Âas Mosque, the Coptic Church of St George (Mar Girgis), the Greek Church of St George, the Coptic Nunnery of St George, the Church of the Virgin, the Hanging Church, the St Sergius Church better known as Abû Sirga, the Coptic Museum, the Coptic Cemetery, the Ben Ezra Synagogue and the remains of the Babylon Fort.

The design of the façade of the Coptic Museum is similar to that of the al-Aqmar Mosque in al-Mu‘izz l-Dîn Allah Street in Islamic Cairo, al-‘Inânî pointed out.

He explained that the Holy Family’s sojourn in Egypt had begun on the 24th day of the Coptic month of Pashons, the ninth month of the Coptic calendar. It derives its name from Khonsu, the Ancient Egyptian deity of the moon and son of the god Amun-Re and goddess Mut. The Holy Family spent more than three-and-a-half years in Egypt, stopping at 25 sites in the country.

al-‘Inânî said the government was keen on documenting the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt in order to register associated sites on the World Heritage List managed by UNESCO, the UN cultural body.

A scientific committee had been formed in collaboration with the concerned authorities to document the Holy Family’s period in Egypt. The Ministry of Antiquities in collaboration with Egypt’s Coptic Church had also carried out a number of restoration and development projects in churches and monasteries on the Holy Family’s route.

Last October during an audience in St Peter’s Square in Rome, Roman Catholic Pope

Francis blessed an icon by a Vatican artist representing the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt, effectively giving his blessing to the millions of Christians around the world who may want to follow in the Holy Family’s footsteps.

It was described as “the crowning glory” of the government’s efforts to revive Christian pilgrimages to Egypt and an important step towards including Egyptian routes in Roman Catholic pilgrimage programmes.

An icon representing the Holy Family’s journey to Egypt

Although there is no contemporary evidence of the gospel story of the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt in order to escape the edict of the biblical king Herod, Ahmed al-Nimr, a member of the scientific office at the Ministry of Antiquities, told Al-Ahram Weekly, the Coptic Synaxarion, a compilation of writings by various authors drawing on different sources and oral traditions, mentions 25 places associated with their flight.

A mediaeval manuscript details the sites visited by the Holy Family in Egypt, as revealed in a dream to Pope Theophilus, the 23rd patriarch of Alexandria, in the early fifth century CE. These are held to be sacred until today, and the late Coptic Pope Shinûda III approved the itineraries drawn up for Christian pilgrims by the Ministry of Tourism in 2000.

During last week’s ceremony, Minister of Tourism Rânyâ al-Mashât announced that Egypt would receive the first pilgrimage in the footsteps of the Holy Family on 17 June this year.

The Holy Family’s flight into Egypt is associated with archaeological sites from Sinai to the Delta and Asyût in Upper Egypt, said

J u i n 2 0 1 8


Muhammad ‘Abd al-Latîf, former deputy minister of antiquities.

“The Holy Family’s visit to Egypt bestowed on the country a unique honour and blessing,” ‘Abd al-Latîf told the Weekly, making Egypt one of the world’s most sacred Christian centres.

“The duration of the Holy Family’s sojourn in each of the cities they visited varied from a few days to a few months. The longest stay was in Gabal Qusakam where they spent 185 days,” ‘Abd al-Latîf said.

The Holy Family arrived from Bethlehem in Egypt via al-‘Arîsh and Tell al-Farama in Sinai. They then travelled to Tell Basta in Zaqâzîq, Bilbays, Samannûd and Sakhâ in the Delta and Wâdî al-Natrûn, Bahnasâ, Gabal al-Tayr and Ashmûnayn in Minyâ, Philes (Dayrût) and al-Qusseya (al-Muharraq) in Asyût.

In Asyût, al-Nimr said, a messenger of God appeared to Joseph and told him to return to Palestine because Herod was dead.

The Holy Family then began the long journey home, following a different path from Asyût. They probably sailed down the Nile to Memphis, Ma‘âdî, Babylon in Old Cairo, and then on to Matariyya, Musturud, Bilbays, Tell Basta in Zaqâzîq, al-Farama and al-‘Arîsh in Sinai.

“Not all of these places are archaeological sites, but they share religious, social and cultural rituals which derive from the holy journey,” al-Nimr said.

The places where the Holy Family stopped that house archaeological sites are the Virgin Mary Tree in Matariyya, the Church of Abû Sirga in Old Cairo, the Monasteries of Wâdî al-Natrûn, the Church of the Virgin Mary at Gabal al-Tayr in Minyâ, and the al-Muharraq Monastery in Asyût. (Nevine El-Aref, “The Holy Family in Egypt”, Al-Ahram Weekly, June 7, 2018. Voir également MENA, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : L’Égypte attache une importance capitale à la documentation du séjour de la Sainte Famille », Sada al-Balad, 2 juin).

- -

A collection of nine smuggled artefacts recovered from France were handed over to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs by the Ministry of Antiquities on Thursday.

Eight of these artefacts were seized from a passenger travelling to London at a train station in France in 2012, according to Sha‘bân ‘Abd al-Gawwâd, head of the repatriation department at the Ministry of Antiquities, speaking to Ahram Online. Among the artefacts were five fragments of an ancient Egyptian sarcophagus, two cat statues, and a human head carved in basalt.

The collection was confiscated by the French police and, after a series of legal and diplomatic procedures to prove ownership; Egypt recovered the artefacts in 2014.

The Ministry of Antiquities followed up the case over the following years in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign affairs, until French authorities returned the artefacts to the Egyptian embassy in Paris at the end of 2017, ‘Abd al-Gawwâd told Ahram Online.

J u i n 2 0 1 8


The ninth object was observed in the collection of a Parisian auction hall, and monitored by the Ministry of Antiquities. It was found to be one of a number of artefacts stolen from the storage of Elephantine Island in 2013. The ministry undertook legal procedures to prevent its sale, recovering and returning it to the embassy at the end of 2017. The object is a wooden mummy mask covered with plaster. (Nevine El-Aref, “Nine smuggled ancient Egyptian artefacts recovered from France”, Ahram Online, June 7, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie récupère 9 pièces archéologiques volées », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 7 juin ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie récupère 9 pièces antiques volées à Paris », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 7 juin ; “France returns smuggled artifacts to Egypt”, Egypt Independent, June 7).

- -

Vendredi 8 juin 2018

Misr Company for Sound and Light will organize additional shows in Arabic throughout the Eïd al-Fitr vacation in five areas including the Gîza Pyramids, Karnak temple in Luxor, and Philae, Abû Simbil and Idfû temples in Aswân, Chairman of Misr Company for Sound and Light Sâmih Sa‘d said.

Sound and light shows at the Gîza Pyramids will start at 7 pm, in Karnak temple at 9 pm. In Philae temple, shows will take place on the first and third days of Eïd at 9:30 pm, and on the second day of Eïd at 8:15 pm.

The language of shows will be defined by the nationality of attendees, according to Sa‘d.

The company is currently preparing programs for Egyptians at special prices to spread knowledge about the civilization of Ancient Egypt, Sa‘d told al-Masrî al-Yawm.

The family ticket for five people will be available during Eïd at LE200 instead of LE250. The family ticket for four people will be available at LE180 instead of LE200, he pointed out.

Two towers are currently under construction at the Gîza Pyramids area to accommodate 180 laser projectors. Other devices used in the sound and light shows will also be updated as current devices have become old and incommensurate with nowadays-technological development, Sa‘d mentioned.

Sa‘d stressed that Misr Company for Sound and Light is interested in providing shows in Arabic for Egyptian and Arab tourists so they can enjoy archaeological areas at night. (“Sound and light additional shows to be held on Eïd al-Fitr”, Egypt Independent, June 8, 2018).

- -


Towards the rear of the atrium of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), where the granite colossus of King Ramses II proudly stands, Egypt’s ministers of investment and international cooperation, antiquities and tourism, and Gîza’s governor, gathered along with a group of foreign ambassadors to Egypt.

Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities announced Sunday in a press conference addressing local and international companies and consortiums the opening of a pre-qualification stage for those hoping to bid for the contract to manage and operate facilities at the GEM complex overlooking the Gîza Plateau.

The press conference was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Investment and International Cooperation and the

J u i n 2 0 1 8


Engineering Authority of the Armed Forces, and supported by the Ministry of Tourism.

Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî said that GEM’s facilities include a conference centre for 1,000 people, a cinema for 500 people, 10 restaurants, with two overlooking the Gîza pyramids, food courts, bookshops and other retail outlets, a traditional arts and crafts centre, and a multifunctional building that could be for administrative purposes or as a boutique hotel.

al-‘Inânî asserted that the Ministry of Antiquities is the only authority responsible for the management and security of GEM’s treasured collection as well as anything related to antiquities, such as exhibition halls, the maintenance and restoration centre, and the children’s museum.

al-‘Inânî, Nasr, al-Mashât and the board

Minister of Tourism Rânyâ al-Mashât said that GEM, the largest and most significant cultural project in process globally, is going to be a wonderful tourism attraction that blends history with a modern and authentic twist. “Egypt is the world’s capital of cultural tourism,” she pointed out, adding that nothing will make a bolder statement than when this magnificent museum has its official opening.

"And to complement GEM, the Gîza Plateau is undergoing a massive renovation project to include boutique hotels, restaurants and cinemas and we’re determined to give all that come to visit the most wonderful experience," al-Mashât said.

"The whole undertaking will reflect the splendour of Egyptian history in an attractive and modern way for international visitors, and for everyone throughout Egypt," she added.

Minister of Investment and International Cooperation Sahar Nasr expressed her happiness to be at GEM to announce the launch of the prequalification stage of bidding for the facilities management contract.

She described the GEM complex as a state-of-the-art, world-class destination, and cultural and touristic hub comprising large investment opportunities. “These opportunities are available online on the investment map where investors are encouraged to explore the area and location and see nearest facilities services and other landmarks,” she pointed out.

Nasr explained that starting today investors will also be able to download all relevant documents and schedules for bidding on the facilities management contract. This bidding is yet another sign by the Egyptian government that it is changing the approach and that more cooperation between the public sector and the private is planned. The process of this international bidding allows all applicants to visit the site within the second week of July 2018.

The submission of pre-qualification applications is scheduled for Tuesday, 24 July, while the opening of the envelopes will take place the following day Wednesday, 25 July. After which a list of qualified applicants will be announced mid-August. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egypt’s GEM announces pre-qualification stage for bidding on facilities management”, Ahram Online, June 10, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Annonce de la pré-qualification pour la gestion des services du GEM », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 8 juin ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie lance la pré-qualification pour la gestion des services du GEM », Sada al-Balad, 8 juin ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Les

J u i n 2 0 1 8


ministères de l’Archéologie et de l’Investissement annoncent la pré-qualification pour la gestion des services du GEM », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 10 juin).

- -

Lundi 11 juin 2018

The newly released logo design for the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) has resulted in controversy among archaeologists, artists and architects.

Its detractors think the logo ugly and devoid of relation either to Egyptian identity or to GEM, whose construction in Gîza is geared to make it a monumental landmark. They also accuse the GEM authority of preventing professional artists from submitting a design.

Meanwhile supporters of the logo describe it as branding on a level with equivalent logos in Britain, Paris, Germany and the United States. The logo is described as appropriate to the architectural design of the GEM, and a choice in line with modern graphic design.

Artist Muhammad ‘Abla told Ahram Online that the Ministry of Antiquities should have launched an international competition for the logo design of GEM, and could have offered the winner and their family a month-long free visit to the museum as well as free accommodation in Egypt as a reward, rather than a sum of money. “Millions of artists would have contributed entries to a competition like this,” he asserted, adding that a committee of pioneer artists and graphic designers should have been assigned to evaluate the submissions.

A statement from the Arabic Society for Fine Art Designers said that the design of the logo does not abide by the integrities and principles of effective design, nor does it showcase Egypt’s great and ancient civilization. The society offered to help the ministry of antiquities to organize a competition among arts and graphic companies, both locally and internationally, to select a different logo for the GEM.

The logo also came under fire on social media as several artists and intellectuals thought it failed to communicate the significance of GEM.

GEM General Supervisor Târiq Tawfîq told Ahram Online that the GEM logo will be used in promotional campaigns in Egypt and worldwide, allowing the branding, marketing, and advertising of GEM on a grand scale.

According to the museum’s interior designer, Atelier Brückner from Stuttgart, the logo is inspired by the architectural plan, structure and the surroundings of the museum.

“It reflects the unique footprint of the GEM complex in an orange colour, conveying the warmth of the evening sun which imparts this colour to the sandy landscape before setting in the west behind the museum,” Tawfîq told Ahram Online. He added that the name of GEM, written in Arabic script is designed to reflect the sandy dunes and peaks of Egypt, whilst its simple calligraphy resonates with that of equivalent logos in famous international museums such as the British Museum in London, the Louvre in Paris and the Metropolitan in the United States.

He pointed out that responsibility for the logo’s design falls within the remit of the German company responsible for the interior design and exhibition set up of the galleries in GEM’s first phase. The company won the contract in an international competition, whose 12 participating companies came from eight different countries. A committee including pioneering Egyptian artists, architects and archaeologists selected the new logo after reviewing a number of designs submitted by the company.

J u i n 2 0 1 8


Atelier Brückner is a German company, which conceives and designs narrative architecture for brands, exhibitions, trade fairs and museums.

The German company offered a number of proposals for the design to the committee, some of which used traditional Pharaonic images such as amulets and pyramids. The committee ran with a modern abstract form to match current marketing trends, in an attempt to target new and younger generations, and to steer away from the traditional images available for consumption.

Speaking to Ahram Online, Former Minister of Antiquities and famed archaeologist Zâhî Hawwâs stated that he understands “the fierce objection of Egyptian intellectuals to the design of the GEM logo. They consider the GEM not only as a major Egyptian cultural project, but the cultural project of the century.” He added regretfully that they misunderstand the philosophy behind its selection; going on to say that international museums always use simple logos, without a visual indication of the museums’ treasured collection.

Hawwâs believes the selected logo should be used as a promotional tool for marketing the GEM, until the museum’s final inauguration in 2023. The Ministry of Antiquities could then launch a new international competition to select a final logo for the GEM, with the participation of Egyptian and international artists, Hawwâs adds.

The GEM logo

“All of France was against the Eiffel Tower France, describing it as an ugly structure that didn’t reflect French identity and spirit,” professor of Architecture at Cairo University Dalîla al-Kirdânî told Ahram Online. “I am really happy that such controversy has arisen: it’s good publicity for the logo.”

The design of the logo reflects Egypt in general, she stated, as it shows the plan of the GEM, its location in the surrounding desert, and the Arabic calligraphy inscribing its name reflects our distinguished culture. The final form is far from complex in order to make it simple to use and to leave a good visual impact.

According to al-Kirdânî the committee reviewed the logos of other international museums during the selection process, and previewed the logo on all the promotional products to be used in the museum’s marketing campaign. She concluded that the simple design and orange colour were very attractive. (Nevine El-Aref, “New logo design for Grand Egyptian Museum creates controversy”, Ahram Online, June 11, 2018. Voir également Khâlid Muntasir, « Le logo du GEM manque d’âme et de sens », al-Watan, 11 juin ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le superviseur du GEM : Notre logo est expressif et vise à promouvoir le musée », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 11 juin ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Muhammad ‘Abla : Le ministère de l’Archéologie aurait dû lancé une compétition pour la conception du logo du GEM », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 11 juin ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Polémique autour du logo du GEM : Il ressemble à la publicité des chawarma », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 12 juin ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le secrétaire général du CSA : Je n’ai pas qualifié les opposants au logo du GEM d’arriérés », Sada al-Balad, 12 juin ; Ranâ Gawhar, « La controverse se poursuit autour du logo du GEM », al-Ahrâm, 13 juin ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie : Le logo du GEM n’est pas définitif », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 15 juin ; Nasma Réda, « Le nouveau logo du GEM ne fait pas l’unanimité », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 20 juin).

- -

J u i n 2 0 1 8


Mardi 12 juin 2018

The Sydney Morning Herald a annoncé que l’Australian Museum de Sydney a dépensé près de 50 millions de dollars pour rénover ses salles, afin d’accueillir la plus grande exposition des collections de Toutankhamon jamais organisée en dehors de l’Égypte. La durée de cette exposition est prévue pour six mois, au terme de laquelle les collections de Toutankhamon rejoindront définitivement le Grand Musée Égyptien. (« L’Australie s’apprête à recevoir Toutankhamon », al-Ahrâm, 12 juin 2018).

- -

Jeudi 14 juin 2018

Egypt will host the 12th International Congress of Egyptology (ICE) in November 2019 in collaboration with the International Association of Egyptologists (ICE).

The congress, one of the world’s most important scientific conferences in the field of Egyptology, is held periodically every four years to discuss the latest in Egyptological research.

This is the congress’ third session to be hosted by Egypt, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities Mustafa Wazîrî told Ahram Online, adding that the first two hosted by Egypt were the fifth session in 1988 and the eighth in 2000.

Wazîrî explains that to guarantee the success of the coming round, which will take place from 3 to 8 November, the Ministry of Antiquities has set up two committees to organise the conference and review the scientific research submitted.

The scientific committee is led by ‘Ulâ al-‘Agîzî, former head of the Faculty of Archaeology at Cairo University, and its members include directors of foreign institutes in Egypt, Egyptology professors from various international and Egyptian universities, and the representative of the president of the International Society of Egyptian Scientists.

The organising committee’s head Ahmad ‘Ubayd says that the congress will cover a vast range of the latest discoveries in the field of Pharaonic history, adding that it will undoubtedly be of interest to anyone that has an academic interest in Egyptology.

‘Ubayd said that the topics covered will include the history of ancient Egypt, the history of Egyptology, modern methods used in archaeological excavations, the management of archaeological sites, conservation, archaeological and technological sciences, archaeological museums, art, architecture, language and literature, and religious beliefs and social life in ancient Egypt.

‘Ubayd added that the session will also cover challenges and problems faced by the antiquities sector in Egypt and their possible solutions.

A number of sightseeing tours will be organised for the attendees to visit museums and archaeological sites in Cairo and Gîza.

The logo of the 12th session was inspired from one of artefacts of King Tutankhamun. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egypt to host 12th round of the International Congress of Egyptologists”, Ahram Online, June 14, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « L’Égypte accueille le XIIe Congrès international des égyptologues en novembre prochain », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 13 juin ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie organise le XIIe Congrès international des égyptologues », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 13 juin ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le Caire accueille le XIIe Congrès international des égyptologues le 3 novembre », Sada al-Balad, 13 juin).

- -

J u i n 2 0 1 8


Au cours de l’émission "Vingt-deux heures" diffusée sur la chaîne satellitaire Dream, le journaliste Wâ’il al-Ibrâshî a vivement critiqué le logo du GEM qui, selon lui, manque d’imagination et ressemble plutôt aux « cahiers de coloriage pour enfants ». De son côté, le chercheur ‘Alî Abû Shîsh a vilipendé la médiocrité esthétique de ce logo qui, en plus, a coûté près de 800 000 livres égyptiennes.

« L’Égypte manque-t-elle vraiment de créateurs pour commander à l’Allemagne un tel logo ?! », renchérit-il. La couleur orange qui symbolise le coucher de soleil ne sied guère à l’Égypte, pays du lever de soleil. Enfin, ce logo est un plagiat du Queen’s Film Theatre (QFT), un complexe cinématographique d’Irlande du Nord. (Shirîf Sulaymân, « Le logo du GEM a coûté 800 000 L.E. », al-Watan, 14 juin 2018. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Révélations sur le coût du logo du GEM », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 12 juin ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Le logo du GEM est d’origine irlandaise », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 14 juin).

- -

An Egyptian-American archaeological mission involving Yale University has uncovered a flint quarrying area that has been dated to several archaeological periods at the al-Kâb site in Idfû, on the west bank of the Nile near Aswân.

The discovery was revealed during the Elkab Desert Archaeological Survey Project at Bîr Umm Tînîdbâ, located at the juncture of Wâdî Hilâl Road.

The mission discovered a wealth of archaeological and epigraphic material, including numerous concentrations of rock art, primarily of the Pre-Dynastic and Proto-Dynastic periods; burial tumuli of the Proto-Dynastic period; and another thus far unrecorded Late Roman settlement.

John Coleman DARNIELEN, head of the Yale University team, said that the mission found three rock art sections revealing important scenes of the Naqada II and Naqada III Dynasties (ca. 3500-3100 BCE), providing evidence for the continuity and interaction of artistic styles of the Eastern Desert and Nile Valley.

“The most impressive image may be dated to ca. 3300 BCE, depicting animals, including a bull, a giraffe, an addax, a barbary sheep and donkeys,” DARNIELEN said.

The image provides important clues to the religion and symbolic communication of Pre-Dynastic Egyptians before the invention of the hieroglyphic script, he said.

Wâdî Umm Tînîdbâ is also the location of several burial tumuli that appear to belong to desert dwellers with physical ties to both the Nile Valley and the Red Sea.

One of the tumuli, he said, was the burial place of a woman of age ranging between 25-35 years old at the time of her death.

She was probably one of the local desert elite and was buried with at least one vessel in the standard Nilotic style, as well as with a strand of Red Sea shells and carnelian beads, alluding to her desert and Red Sea associations.

J u i n 2 0 1 8


Additional tumuli at the site may reveal further evidence concerning these desert people.

To the south of the rock inscription and tumuli sites lies a Late Roman-era settlement with dozens of stone structures.

The ceramic evidence, as well as comparative material, indicates that the site dates to between 400 and 600 CE.

This Late Roman site complements the evidence for similar archaeological sites in the Eastern Desert, and once again fills a gap in an area once blank on the archaeological map of the area.

“The newly discovered rock art at Bîr Umm Tînîdbâ reveal a desert population coming under increasing influence from the Nile Valley during the time of Dynasty 0,” DARNIELEN asserted.

It also shows the adoption of Nile Valley imagery and its proper understanding by a group whose earlier art has more in common with that of other Eastern Desert sites.

The rock art and burial tumuli discovery shed more light on the understanding of the integration of “marginal” groups into the early Pharaonic culture and state. (Nevine El-Aref, “New discovery in Egypt’s Idfû reveals Roman Era settlement, pre-dynastic cultural links”, Ahram Online, June 14, 2018. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Nouvelle découverte archéologique dans le désert d’al-Kâb à Idfû », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 13 juin ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Découverte prédynastique dans le désert d’al-Kâb à Aswân », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 13 juin ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « L’Égypte annonce une nouvelle découverte archéologique à Bîr Umm

Tînîdbâ », Sada al-Balad, 13 juin ; Muhammad al-Aswânî, « Une mission archéologique réalise une découverte dans le désert d’Idfû », Watanî, 13 juin ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Nouvelle découverte qui éclaire les origines de l’écriture égyptienne », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 14 juin ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Nouvelle découverte archéologique à Idfû », al-Ahrâm, 14 juin).

- -


al-‘Inânî at a new discovery in al-Ghurayfa in Minyâ

Shortly after being sworn into office on Thursday, newly re-appointed Antiquities Minister Khâlid al-‘Inânî described his vision for his upcoming tenure, which will focus on the completion of a number of existing ambitious projects across Egypt.

“My dream is to complete all of the yet unfinished projects, chief among them the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), the Gîza Plateau development project, the Avenue of the Sphinxes in Luxor, the Baron Empain palace in Heliopolis, the Jewish Synagogue and the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC),” al-‘Inânî told Ahram Online.

al-‘Inânî was first appointed to head Egypt’s antiquities ministry in March 2016 as part of former Prime Minister Shirîf Ismâ‘îl’s Cabinet, six months after being appointed as the director general of the Egyptian Museum. He was also director of the NMEC at the time.

The minister’s previous tenure was distinguished by several important discoveries in both Upper and Lower Egypt as well as the opening of several museums such those at Tell Basta and Kom Ûshîm.

J u i n 2 0 1 8


al-‘Inânî also oversaw the advancement of several development projects, including the inauguration of a temporary exhibition hall in the NMEC and the continued construction work on the GEM, which is now 80 precent complete.

Restoration work at the Graeco-Roman Museum and the Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue in Alexandria, as well as on the Baron Empain palace in Heliopolis are also already underway, as is the restoration and rehabilitation of several Islamic monuments in Rosetta with aims to develop the area into an open-air museum for Islamic art.

The minister also responded to recent criticism of the newly unveiled logo of the GEM, asserting that it is only promotional and not the final design, and that he welcomed all comment and criticism from the syndicates, universities and artists over the matter.

He promised to launch an international art competition among Egyptian and foreign artists to select a final logo for the museum, as well as one for the NMEC and all other museums in Egypt.

al-‘Inânî completed his doctorate in Egyptology in 2001 at Montpellier III University in France. He began his academic career at the Faculty of Tourism and Hotel Management at Hilwân University, where he quickly rose through the ranks.

While at Hilwân, al-‘Inânî was director of the Open Learning Centre, head of the Tourism Guidance Department, vice-dean for education and student affairs, in addition to acting as professor of Egyptology.

He is an associate scientific expert and member of the board of administration at the French Institute of Oriental Archaeology in Cairo (IFAO) and a visiting professor at Montpellier III University. He has lectured in France and Switzerland, as well as Egypt. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egypt’s newly re-appointed antiquities minister intent on completing all national heritage projects”, Ahram Online, June 15, 2018. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « al-‘Inânî : Mes yeux sont constamment rivés sur l’intérêt des

archéologues et de l’archéologie », Sada al-Balad, 15 juin).

- -


Egypt has filed a complaint to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) after a replica of the iconic Egyptian Great Sphinx of Gîza resurfaced in China, reported The Daily Telegraph.

Erected in the Shijiazhuang, the capital city of Hebei province in northern China, the replica sphinx stands at 60 meters in height and 20 meters in length, giving it almost the same proportions as the original.

Dating over 4,000 years ago, the original Egyptian Sphinx stands till this day in the Gîza plateau.

“The Ministry of Antiquities is taking measures through UNESCO as this is a violation of Egypt’s intellectual property. Eventually China must remove the fake Sphinx,” Ashraf Muhyî al-Dîn, General Manager of Gîza Pyramid Plateau, told The Daily Telegraph.

The replica first appeared in China in 2014, but was torn down in 2016 after Egypt filed its first complaint to UNESCO in outrage, claiming that the move would harm to Egyptian tourism. China rebutted saying the statue was constructed for shooting purposes and would be torn down after shooting.

J u i n 2 0 1 8


However, Egypt replied saying that the Chinese should have notified Egypt if that was the case.

However, the debate started up again after Chinese news website Guancha reported that China reattached the replica Sphinx’s head last month, inciting outrage once more.

Muhyî al-Dîn told The Daily Telegraph that Egypt’s outrage did not come from the fact that it was worried about its tourism, but simply from a case of intellectual property theft.

“No one will leave the original Sphinx and go to visit this fake one,” he said.

This is the third replica Sphinx that China has built. The other two lie in the western city of Lanzhou and the eastern province of Anhui, according to Guancha.cn. The country also has replicas of the Tower Bridge, Eiffel Tower, Parthenon and even a Henley-on-Thames.

China is known for replicating most of the world’s main monuments. Replicas in China include one of the pyramid at France’s Louvre, several Eiffel Towers and a mini-building of Moscow’s iconic Kremlin. (Farah Tawfeek, “Egypt complains to UNESCO over Sphinx replica built in China”, Egypt Independent, June 20, 2018. Voir également « L’Égypte dénonce le Sphinx chinois et exige son démontage », al-Ahrâm, 12 juin ; Zâhî Hawwâs, « Que l’on détruise le Sphinx chinois ! », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 26 juin).

- -

La Bibliotheca Alexandrina, minaret culturel et intellectuel

d’Alexandrie.

Centre culturel et intellectuel de l’Antiquité depuis sa construction par Alexandre Le Grand en 331 av. J.-C., la ville d’Alexandrie continue de l’être aujourd’hui. La ville

cosmopolite a, en effet, remporté la première place du vote organisé au siège de l’Unesco à Paris pour être l’hôte de la conférence générale du Conseil international des musées (ICOM) en 2022, et ce, suite à une concurrence acharnée avec les deux capitales européennes de Prague (République tchèque) et Oslo (Norvège).

« Grâce à ce succès, la ville d’Alexandrie sera la première ville arabe et africaine à accueillir la conférence de l’ICOM, et ce, après avoir gagné avec 67 voix. Prague, la deuxième ville, a obtenu 52 voix, tandis qu’Oslo, qui a déjà organisé la conférence en 1995, n’a reçu que 11 voix », se réjouit Khâlid ‘Azab, président du Comité national égyptien des musées.

‘Azab assure que cet événement historique et sans précédent sera une excellente occasion de remettre l’Égypte, notamment Alexandrie, sur la carte du tourisme mondial, puisque tous les musées du monde vont promouvoir le tourisme en Égypte et les zones archéologiques de la ville d’Alexandrie d’ici 2022. « En outre, au cours des trois prochaines années, la ville fera l’objet d’un plan de développement global, comprenant ses musées ainsi que ses zones d’attraction culturelles et touristiques », ajoute ‘Azab.

Le sérapeum d’Alexandrie est l’un des sites archéologiques inédits.

Triennale, la conférence générale de l’ICOM — la principale organisation internationale représentant les musées et les professionnels des musées — est, en fait, le plus grand événement archéologique au niveau international. L’organisation a été créée

J u i n 2 0 1 8


en 1946 et représente plus de 150 pays, dont l’Égypte, qui est l’un des pays fondateurs. « Cette conférence rassemble plus de 4 000 chercheurs spécialistes et experts dans le domaine des musées, en plus de nombreuses entreprises touristiques internationales, qui viennent des quatre coins du monde pour échanger et dialoguer des différentes questions muséologiques. Cette fois-ci, tout ce monde va se retrouver en Égypte le temps d’une semaine pour discuter du thème : La Découverte de l’identité », indique ‘Azab.

Généralement, les pays participent à ce genre de votes avec des villes qui ne sont pas forcément leurs capitales. Le Japon a ainsi concouru avec Kyoto, l’Italie a choisi Milan et l’Égypte a présenté Alexandrie. Cette dernière a été choisie pour beaucoup de raisons. « La ville d’Alexandrie est la deuxième ville d’Égypte et connue sous le nom de perle de la Méditerranée. Elle possède une richesse unique en matière d’identités, soit méditerranéenne, africaine et arabe. Elle constitue aussi la connexion entre l’Afrique et l’Europe et, puisqu’elle porte l’esprit européen, elle occupe une place spéciale chez les Européens, qui ont représenté 84 % des voix obtenues par Alexandrie », affirme ‘Azab.

La Citadelle de Qâytbây, l’un des monuments les plus visités

d’Alexandrie.

Alexandrie a depuis toujours été le centre culturel et intellectuel de l’Antiquité, réputée pour ses antiquités et ses monuments, tels que le Phare d’Alexandrie, considéré comme l’une des sept merveilles du monde, et le temple de Sérapis, qui fut une partie intégrante de la Bibliothèque d’Alexandrie. « Cette ville antique, qui a été la première ville

au monde à abriter un musée en 360 av. J.-C., un musée qui portait en ce temps-là le nom de Mouseion, possède une histoire millénaire », assure Ilhâm Salâh, chef du secteur des musées au ministère des Antiquités.

Et d’ajouter : « Cette ville renferme aussi une grande variété de musées, comme le Musée gréco-romain, le Musée national d’Alexandrie, le Musée de l’aquarium, le musée des Bijoux royaux et le musée Cavafy ainsi que 4 autres musées dans l’enceinte de la Bibliotheca Alexandrina ». Selon Salâh, ce genre de conférence met en valeur le rôle des musées, qui n’est pas limité à la protection du patrimoine. « Les musées égyptiens doivent jouer un rôle, avec les autres institutions culturelles et comme dans les pays européens, dans la renaissance des artisanats anciens ou dans l’augmentation de la conscience culturelle de l’individu en général », dit-elle.

Parallèlement à la conférence se tiendra une grande exposition relative aux nouvelles techniques d’exposition muséologique et au marketing. Dans ce contexte, il ne faut pas oublier d’évoquer les efforts remarquables fournis par les jeunes bénévoles égyptiens qui ont travaillé sur le dossier de la ville d’Alexandrie, que ce soit au niveau du film documentaire tourné sur la ville et qui a séduit le public, ou au niveau de la publicité sur les réseaux sociaux, tandis que d’autres pays ont eu recours à de grandes agences de publicité. « Cette candidature a aussi bénéficié du plein appui du gouverneur d’Alexandrie, Muhammad Sultân, qui s’est rendu au siège de l’Unesco à Paris au moment du vote, ainsi que de celui de la Bibliotheca Alexandrina et de l’Université d’Alexandrie », souligne ‘Azab.

Le gouvernorat d’Alexandrie a organisé une conférence pour le soutien du tourisme à Alexandrie au moment où la délégation du Conseil international des musées a visité la ville en mars dernier. Au cours de cette conférence, les responsables ont très bien présenté la ville ainsi que ses capacités touristiques, archéologiques et ses infrastructures. (Samar Zarée, « Alexandrie,

J u i n 2 0 1 8


capitale mondiale des musées », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 20 juin 2018).

- -

Jeudi 21 juin 2018

En coopération avec le ministère de l’Archéologie et l’Agence des États-Unis pour le développement international (USAID), l’American Research Center in Egypt (ARCE) a célébré aujourd’hui la fin d’un stage de restauration destiné à 52 restaurateurs, techniciens et artisans égyptiens. Cette célébration, qui a eu lieu dans la salle du musée de la Momification à Louqsor, marque l’achèvement des travaux de restauration des chapelles du temple de Khonsou à Karnak, le réaménagement de la zone archéologique de Dirâ‘ Abû al-Nagâ, ainsi que l’inauguration des tombes 159 et 286.

Ont participé à cette célébration le directeur général des antiquités de Haute-Égypte, Dr Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Azîz ; la directrice de l’ARCE, Louise BERTINI ; le directeur de l’ARCE à Louqsor, John SHEARMAN ; la directrice des projets, Sylvie ‘Atallah ; la directrice de la restauration, Khadija Adam ; ainsi que le directeur général de la restauration en Haute-Égypte, ‘Abd al-Nâsir ‘Abd al-‘Azîm. (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « L’ARCE célèbre la fin d’un stage de restauration », Sada al-Balad, 21 juin 2018).

- -

Overlooking the Pyramids at Gîza, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) with its eye-catching trapezoidal architectural design is surrounded by workers, engineers and consultants all wearing gloves and yellow helmets and hard at work.

They are absorbed and driven in spite of the heat to complete the construction of the long-awaited 500,000 square metres of the new museum whose spacious, glass-fronted building offers an enormous panoramic view of the Gîza Plateau.

“This is the world’s largest museum devoted to a single civilisation,” GEM Supervisor-General Târiq Tawfîq told Al-Ahram Weekly. Upon completion, the museum will create the best possible environment for the display of Egypt’s priceless treasures as well as providing more space, better lighting and more information on them, helping to do justice to Egypt’s heritage, he explained.

He said that 80 per cent of the museum’s construction, carried out in collaboration with the Engineering Authority of the Armed Forces, had been achieved and was scheduled to be completed by the end of 2018.

The inauguration of the museum’s first phase would be within the first quarter of 2019, including the atrium, the grand staircase and the 7,000 metre Tutankhamun Gallery where the entire collection of the golden boy-king would be exhibited for the first time ever in the shape of more than 5,000 treasured artefacts.

More than 4,000 objects from Tutankhamun’s collection had been transferred from the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr Square, the Luxor Museum and the Military Museum at the Citadel in Cairo to the GEM’s Conservation Centre, he said.

Among them were three funerary beds, six chariots, clothes and statuettes. “Items which form the core of Tahrîr Museum’s exhibition, such as the shrines, the golden objects and the iconic mask, will not be transferred to the GEM for the moment, but will come shortly before the official inauguration of the GEM’s first phase,” Tawfîq said.

He added that distinguished artefacts would replace the boy-king’s collection in the Tahrîr Museum such as the Tanis jewellery treasures of the 20th and 21st dynasties and the funerary collections of Tutankhamun’s great-grandparents Yuya and Tuya.

J u i n 2 0 1 8


In the atrium of the GEM, he continued, visitors would be welcomed by the iconic granite colossus of the Pharaoh Ramses II along with the column of his son Meneptah. They would then walk along the grand staircase, where a collection of 87 royal colossi such as those of Amenhotep III, Akhenaten and Thutmose III would be on display along with a number of gigantic architectural items.

“Our design is for the entire museum, but we will start with the Tutankhamun collection because it is the first phase opening gala,” Uwe Rudolf BRÜCKNER, founder and creative director of Atelier Brückner, which won the international competition for the GEM’s interior design, told the Weekly.

The company is a leading design office for museums and exhibitions, architecture, expo pavilions, brand and visitor centres.

“Our design philosophy is based on the idea that form follows content, and this depends on the objects themselves and the story that comes with them. Hence, we will start designing the collection from what the curators tell us about the importance of the artefacts and the story behind their discovery. Their beauty and meaning are also taken into consideration,” BRÜCKNER explained.

He said the idea of the Tutankhamun collection’s display would focus on enhancing the background story of every artefact in the collection in a way that highlighted the object and its artistic beauty as well as its background story.

“This is what museums are all about,” BRÜCKNER said, adding that 21st-century museums could open doors to secret worlds known to only a few people. “The idea of a museum is to let visitors participate in the experience and knowledge of museologists and experts,” he said.

This could be achieved through the objects that remained the stars of the exhibition. With smart story telling and scenography, the background story of the objects can be enhanced. For example, he explained, if a visitor was in front of a beautiful artefact in a showcase, on demand he or she could touch

the showcase and information would appear relating the story of that object.

He told the Weekly he liked the idea of enhancing the re-contextualisation of the objects so people could better understand their origins.

“I want to create a journey through Egypt that does not stop in Gîza and the Pyramids where the museum is located, but travels south towards Upper Egypt, Luxor and Aswân. It is an invitation towards a journey to Ancient Egyptian culture,” BRÜCKNER concluded, adding that the goal would be to attract visitors not once but several times in order to experience and explore things they may never have seen before.

STATE OF THE ART: “The GEM is not only a state-of-the-art museum, but also Egypt’s new Pyramid and a major cultural, historical and educational institution,” Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî told the Weekly.

It would contain over 100,000 artefacts reflecting Egypt’s past from its prehistory through the Greek and Roman periods in an area covering 92,000 square metres and designed to use the latest technology systems, including virtual reality, to be in direct contact with other regional and international museums.

“It will create a new experience for Cairo and a new type of museum for the world, one which will become a main node in a global network of museums of Egyptology and will relocate the cultural and intellectual issues of Ancient Egypt to the land of their origin,” al-‘Inânî said.

He went on to say that the GEM would have much more to offer beside the extraordinary Ancient Egyptian artefacts, since there would also be revenue-generating opportunities to guarantee the sustainability of this cultural complex and the diversity of its activities and events.

The GEM will have a conference centre for more than 1,000 guests, a cinema for 500 persons, an attractive retail area with 28 shops and eight restaurants, a further two large restaurants and an open-air theatre

J u i n 2 0 1 8


overlooking the Pyramids and spacious piazzas for festivals with more than 15,000 participants.

There is also a large multi-functional building attached to the complex that can be used for administration, rendered as a boutique hotel, or used for other innovative purposes.

The management of this cultural mega-project will be to the highest international standards, providing Egyptian and international visitors with an unforgettable experience, the Ministry of Antiquities in collaboration with the Ministry of Investment and International Cooperation announced last week at a press conference for the pre-qualification stage for bidding on the GEM’s facilities management, addressing local and international companies and consortiums.

“The Ministry of Antiquities is the only authority responsible for the management and security of the GEM’s treasured collection, as well as anything related to antiquities, such as exhibition halls, the maintenance and restoration centre, and the children’s museum,” al-‘Inânî said.

He described the GEM as “the largest and most significant cultural project in process globally. It is going to be a wonderful attraction that blends history with a modern and authentic twist.”

Egypt is the world’s capital of cultural tourism, he pointed out, adding that nothing would make a bolder statement than when this magnificent museum had its official opening with the completion of the Gîza Plateau Development Project for the area as a whole.

At the end of the conference, the museum’s new logo was released to be used in promotional campaigns in Egypt and worldwide. The logo was designed by Lebanese-Dutch artist Tarek Atrissi in collaboration with Atelier Brückner.

Atrissi is one of most recognised designers in the Arab world. He has gained an international reputation for his graphic work and has received prestigious awards and

honours throughout his career. He was listed in 2017 as one of the 100 most-influential Lebanese professional figures worldwide.

FUTURE PLANS: al-‘Inânî responded to the criticism of the new logo by saying that it was only promotional and was not necessarily the final design.

He welcomed the comments from the relevant syndicates, universities and artists and promised to launch an international competition to select a final logo for the museum, as well as one for the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation (NMEC) and other museums in Egypt.

“To have a building that harmonises well with its unique surroundings with the Pyramids as its backdrop and providing the next generation with a place where they can really get to know the roots of their civilisation is something fantastic,” al-‘Inânî said.

The GEM project was launched in 2002 to build a state-of-the-art antiquities museum near the Gîza Pyramids to solve the problems of the overstuffed Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr Square and to bring together materials stored at various archaeological sites across the country.

The design is by Shih-Fu PENG of the Dublin architectural firm Heneghan, winner of the international architectural competition held in 2003.

In 2010, the construction of a power plant, fire station, storage galleries and fully equipped conservation centre were achieved.

The project is funded by the Egyptian government and two soft loans from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), which in 2006 provided the first loan of $300 million to be repaid over 30 years at 1.5 per cent interest. Payments will be made in instalments after a 10-year grace period following the GEM’s official opening.

The second loan, in 2016, is for some $460 million, which the government will repay over 25 years at an interest rate of 1.4 per cent after a seven-year grace period. Egyptian businessmen have also donated significant

J u i n 2 0 1 8


amounts. Budgetary constraints encountered after the 25 January Revolution led to problems, slowing the construction of the new Museum.

In 2012, a joint venture between Egypt’s Orascom Construction Industries (OCI) and the Belgian BESIX Group was awarded the contract for the completion of the GEM’s third phase, which includes the construction of the museum’s main building and landscaping. (Nevine El-Aref, “Preparing for the GEM”, Al-Ahram Weekly, June 21, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie révèle le logo officiel du GEM », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 10 juin ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie justifie le choix du logo du GEM », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 10 juin ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie explique le choix du logo du GEM », Sada al-Balad, 10 juin ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Salâh al-Milîgî : Le concepteur du logo du GEM s’est focalisé sur le bâtiment au détriment de la civilisation », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 11 juin ; « Le ministre de l’Archéologie : Le logo du GEM n’est pas le meilleur… Je comprends les réactions », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 15 juin ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Le Premier ministre : Les réalisations du GEM sont de véritables succès », al-Ahrâm, 23 juin).

- -

Le ministère de l’Archéologie a entamé les travaux de restauration de wakâlat al-Giddâwî située dans la ville d’Isnâ. Le président du département des antiquités islamiques, coptes et juives, Dr Gamâl Mustafa, a souligné que ces travaux sont entrepris en coopération avec la société Takween Integrated Community Development. Ces travaux englobent des restaurations structurelles et architecturales, la rénovation du réseau d’égout et du circuit d’adduction d’eau potable, le remplacement

du réseau électrique. À cela s’ajoute un projet de réaffectation de ce monument dans des activités bénéfiques à son environnement.

Wakâlat al-Giddâwî a été fondée en 1712 par Hasan Bey al-Giddâwî, membre de la cour de Muhammad Bey Abû al-Dahab. (Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie entame la restauration de wakâlat al-Giddâwî à Louqsor », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 21 juin 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie commence la restauration de wakâlat al-Giddâwî à Isnâ », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 21 juin ; « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : Lancement des travaux de restauration de wakâlat al-Giddâwî à Louqsor », al-Dustûr, 21 juin ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie commence la restauration de wakâlat al-Giddâwî à Isnâ », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 21 juin ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie entame la restauration de wakâlat al-Giddâwî dans le sud de Louqsor », Sada al-Balad, 21 juin).

- -


Le président de la République du Kosovo, Hashim THAÇI, a reçu au palais présidentiel l’archéologue Dr Zâhî Hawwâs. THAÇI a loué les efforts déployés par Hawwâs dans la sauvegarde du patrimoine mondial. De son côté, Dr Hawwâs a affirmé que l’Égypte et ses sites archéologiques sont parfaitement sûrs. À l’issue de cette rencontre, le président de la République du Kosovo a offert à Hawwâs un ouvrage autobiographique.

En République de Macédoine, Hawwâs a été accueilli par le ministre de la Culture qui lui a fait visiter de nombreux sites historiques,

J u i n 2 0 1 8


ainsi que le musée national. Le ministre de la Culture macédonien a offert à Hawwâs une réplique d’une statuette d’Isis découverte récemment en Macédoine.

En l’honneur de Hawwâs, une autre cérémonie a été organisée par le Premier ministre du Kosovo, Ramush HARADINAJ ; et le président de l’Assemblée, Kadri VESELI. Ont également assisté à cette cérémonie de nombreuses personnalités publiques et des stars de la société. Un documentaire sur la vie et les découvertes du Dr Hawwâs y a été projeté. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le président de la République du Kosovo reçoit Zâhî Hawwâs au palais présidentiel », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 22 juin 2018. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Cérémonie de réception de Zâhî Hawwâs au palais présidentiel du Kosovo », Sada al-Balad, 22 juin).

- -

Samedi 23 juin 2018

Le président du département des antiquités islamiques, coptes et juives, Dr Gamâl Mustafa, a pris la décision n° 149/2018 portant nomination de Ahmad al-Sayyid Ahmad Sulaymân au poste de directeur de la zone archéologique de l’arbre de la Vierge Marie, situé dans le quartier de Matariyya. Le ministère de l’Archéologie attache une importance capitale aux sites historiques situés sur le parcours de la Sainte Famille au

Caire et dans les autres gouvernorats. (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Un nouveau directeur pour la zone archéologique de l’arbre de la Vierge à Matariyya », Sada al-Balad, 23 juin 2018).

- -


To mark the Ministry of Antiquities’ celebration of the 5th anniversary of the 30 June revolution, all museums and archaeological sites in Egypt will be open to the public free of charge on Saturday.

Mustafa Wazîrî, the secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said that the free visit would be for Egyptians as well as Arabs and foreigners who are residents in Cairo.

The visitors will be provided with free-guided tours in Arabic and English.

Wazîrî explained this decision comes from the ministry’s belief in the importance of allowing citizens to take part in all public events and national celebrations. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egypt’s museums and historic sites are free for public on 30 June anniversary”, Ahram Online, June 24, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Accès gratuit aux musées à l’occasion du 30 juin », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 24 juin ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Accès gratuit aux musées et aux sites archéologiques à l’occasion du 30 juin », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 24 juin ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie ouvre gratuitement ses musées samedi prochain », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 24 juin ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Les sites archéologiques égyptiens ouverts gratuitement le 30 juin », Watanî, 24 juin).

- -

A coin carved from pure gold in the year 80 according to the Hijra

Islamic calendar (photo: Ayman Barayez)

J u i n 2 0 1 8


During underwater excavation work at Abûqîr Bay in Alexandria, an Egyptian-French mission uncovered a gold coin from the Islamic period.

According to Ihâb Fahmî, head of the Central Department for Underwater Antiquities, the coin is carved in pure gold and was minted in the Levant in the year 80 according to the Hijra Islamic calendar, during the reign of the Omayyad Sultan ‘Abd al-Malik Ibn Marawân. The coin bears a verse from the Quran.

Underwater excavation is to continue to reveal more of Abûqîr Bay’s ancient secrets. (Ayman Barayez, “Islamic gold coin uncovered in Abûqîr Bay in Alexandria”, Ahram Online, June 24, 2018. Voir également « Un premier dinar arabe repêché des eaux de la Méditerranée », al-Ahrâm, 21 juin).

- -

Lundi 25 juin 2018

Excavators at a tomb in Luxor have found four canopic jars from the 26th Dynasty, dedicated to “the lady of the house Amenirdis.”

The discovery was made by an Egyptian-American mission led by Elena PISCHIKOVA and Fathî Yâsîn during conservation work carried out by the South ‘Asâsîf Conservation Project in the Kushite tomb of Karabasken, a priest.

The tomb is located in the south ‘Asâsîf Necropolis on Luxor’s west bank.

Canopic jars as found

Mustafa Wazîrî, the secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, told Ahram Online that the jars were found in situ in an

intrusive burial compartment cut into the south wall of the pillared hall of the tomb (TT391).

They were found in a 50cm-deep space in the floor.

“Although the jars are in situ in a very good conservation condition, they had fallen over the time under the pressure of flood water and one of them was broken into several fragments,” Wazîrî said, adding that emergency cleaning and consolidation were carried out by the ministry’s conservators.

PISCHIKOVA said that the jars are hollow inside and probably held viscera.

“Although the contents of the jars were damaged by floodwater they still contain a large amount of resin,” she told Ahram Online.

The sizes of the lidded jars vary from 35.5 to 39.4cm and each one bears inscriptions to “the lady of the house Amenirdis,” arranged in two vertical columns and one horizontal line.

The formula is indicative of the 26th dynasty.

The lids are in the shapes of a man, a baboon, a jackal and a falcon, and were skilfully carved by at least three different artists.

The South ‘Asâsîf Conservation Project is an Egyptian-American mission working under the auspices of the Ministry of Antiquities.

The project was founded in 2006 with the aim of restoring and reconstructing the damaged and partially collapsed Late Period tombs of the South ‘Asâsîf necropolis, Karabasken (TT391), Karakhamun (TT223) and Irtieru (TT390).

J u i n 2 0 1 8


During its 12 years of work the project has found thousands of fragments of tomb decoration and reconstructed the Second Pillared hall and part of the First Pillared hall in the tomb of Karakhamun.

"The restored tombs will feature sophisticated relief carving and painting of the 25th and 26th dynasties," PISCHIKOVA said. (Nevine El-Aref, “26th Dynasty canopic jars discovered at Luxor’s South ‘Asâsîf necropolis”, Ahram Online, June 25, 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce une nouvelle découverte dans la nécropole de la rive ouest à Louqsor », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 25 juin ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « La mission égypto-américaine met au jour une nouvelle découverte au sud d’al-‘Asâsîf », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 25 juin ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie met au jour des vases canopes dans une tombe de la rive ouest », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 25 juin ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Nouvelle découverte archéologique au sud d’al-‘Asâsîf », Sada al-Balad, 25 juin).

- -

Mardi 26 juin 2018

General Director of the Islamic, Coptic and Jewish Antiquities in Alexandria and the North Coast, Muhammad Mitwallî, confirmed on Monday that restoration and development for the Eliyahu Hanavi synagogue, and the Graeco-Roman Museum were at 50 precent and 20 precent respectively.

Mitwallî added that architects have worked on restoring the synagogue’s copper collections, candlesticks, metal chandeliers and wood as well as replacing the old marble floors with new ones.

He also said that the government allocated LE 1,270,0000 to restore eight national projects, including restoration of Alexandria and the North Coast’s Antiquities, which have cost nearly LE 100 million.

The Torah scrolls in the synagogue are in good condition and in a safe place, Mitwallî assured.

The Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue was built in 1354 AD. It was bombed by the French during their invasion of Egypt in 1798 and was re-built in 1850 with contributions from the Muhammad ‘Alî dynasty. It is included on the World Monuments Fund’s 2018 list of monuments at risk.

Although services are still held in the synagogue, it now caters to a very small community due to the dwindling number of Jews in Alexandria and Egypt. (“Restorations for Eliyahu Hanavi synagogue 50% complete”, Egypt Independent, June 26, 2018. Voir également Ragab Ramadân, « Restauration de 50 % de la synagogue et de 20 % du Musée gréco-romain à Alexandrie », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 25 juin).

- -

Le ministère de l’Archéologie vient d’achever la restauration de la façade Nord de la pyramide de Snéfrou, connue sous le nom de la pyramide rhomboïdale, située à Dahshûr. Le président de l’Administration centrale pour la restauration, Gharîb Sunbul, a précisé que les travaux de restauration ont été effectués sur une hauteur de 4 mètres à partir de la base de la pyramide. L’équipe de travail a rassemblé les pierres éparpillées autour de la pyramide, avant de les refixer à leur emplacement d’origine. Les joints vides entre les blocs de pierre ont également été regarnis de mortier.

J u i n 2 0 1 8


Sunbul a ajouté que les travaux de restauration se poursuivront sur les trois autres faces. Ensuite, la pyramide sera restaurée de l’intérieur. (Hiba ‘Âdil, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie achève la restauration de la pyramide de Snéfrou à Dahshûr », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 26 juin 2018. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie achève la restauration de la façade Nord de la pyramide de Snéfrou à Dahshûr », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 26 juin ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie achève la restauration de la rhomboïdale à Dahshûr », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 26 juin ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Achèvement de la restauration de la façade Nord de la pyramide de Snéfrou à Dahshûr », Sada al-Balad, 26 juin ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Achèvement de la restauration de la façade Nord de la pyramide de Snéfrou à Dahshûr », Watanî, 26 juin).

- -


Le journal Life Sciences a publié un rapport sur la découverte réalisée par des chercheurs archéologues de cas de cancer parmi les momies de l’oasis d’al-Dâkhla. Parmi les cas recensés figurent un enfant atteint de leucémie, ainsi qu’un quinquagénaire mort du cancer du rectum. 1 087 momies vieilles de 3 000 à 1 500 ans ont été examinées. Les chercheurs en déduisent que le taux d’incidence du cancer parmi les anciens habitants de l’oasis était de l’ordre de 5 p. 1 000. (« Découverte des plus anciens cas de cancer parmi les momies de l’oasis d’al-Dâkhla », al-Ahrâm, 27 juin 2018).

- -

Cinq ouvriers ont trouvé la mort au cours de fouilles clandestines effectuées dans une ferme à Wâdî al-Natrûn. Parvenus à une profondeur de 15 mètres, ils ont péri étouffés sous l’effondrement des décombres. (Mahmûd ‘Abd al-Sabûr, « Décès de 5 individus lors de fouilles illicites à al-Buhayra », al-Tahrîr, 27 juin 2018).

- -

Samedi 30 juin 2018

A collection of 195 artefacts and 21,660 coins were returned to Egypt on Friday after being seized while being smuggled into Italy in May.

The artefacts were returned in collaboration with the Carabinieri Command for the Protection of Cultural Heritage in Rome and the Italian Public Prosecutor at the Court of Salerno.

Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA) Mustafa Wazîrî told Ahram Online that the recovered objects are dated from Ancient Egypt to the Islamic period.

The artefacts include 151 ushabti statuettes carved in faience, 11 pots, five cartonnage gilded mummy masks, a wooden sarcophagus,

J u i n 2 0 1 8


two symbolic wooden boats of the dead, two canopic jar lids and three porcelain tiles from the Islamic era.

Wazîrî also thanked Italian authorities, the Egyptian prosecutor-general, Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Egyptian Embassy in Rome for their efforts in ensuring that the artefacts are returned.

“The return of the artefacts was executed in an unprecedentedly short period after Italian authorities reported the incident to Egyptian counterparts,” Wazîrî said, explaining that the usual repatriation process in such cases can take three to five years.

Wazîrî said that when the incident was reported to Egypt’s antiquities ministry, Minister Khâlid al-‘Inânî formed an archaeological committee to inspect photos of the artefacts and called for an urgent meeting of the National Committee for Antiquities Repatriation to discuss the matter and take all the necessary procedures to return the artefacts to Egypt.

The committee is led by al-‘Inânî, and its members are comprised of renowned Egyptian archaeologist Zâhî Hawwâs, former Arab League Secretary-General Nabîl al-‘Arabî, as well as representatives from the

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the prosecutor-general, and legal and security authorities.

In mid-June, Wazîrî and Muhammad ‘Izzat, senior coordinator at the International Cooperation Administration of the prosecutor-general’s office, travelled to Salerno to inspect the artefacts and confirm their authenticity.

“According to the Ministry of Antiquities’ records, the objects were not stolen from any museum or store gallery in Egypt,” Wazîrî asserted, adding that the artefacts are now undergoing restoration and will be put on display in a temporary exhibition at the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr.

Over the past two years, Egypt has succeeded in repatriating 975 stolen artefacts from 10 countries. (Nevine El-Aref, “Italy returns to Egypt collection of Egyptian artefacts seized in Naples”, Ahram Online, June 30, 2018. Voir également Zâhî Hawwâs, « Les antiquités saisies en Italie : entre rumeurs et réalité », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 5 juin ; “Italy to hand over 118 smuggled artifacts to Egypt”, Egypt Independent, June 20 ; Hiba ‘Âdil, « Les pièces antiques volées en Italie arrivent à l’aéroport du Caire », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 30 juin ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Les pièces archéologiques saisies en Italie reviennent en Égypte », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 30 juin ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Les pièces restituées par l’Italie seront bientôt exposées au Musée Égyptien », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 30 juin).

- -

Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî announced that the next period will witness substantial discoveries and openings.

In his first statement since being reinstated in Mustafa Madbûlî’s government, al-‘Inânî

J u i n 2 0 1 8


told press that the new government is very keen on revolutionizing historical areas and providing the correct advertising for them abroad, to show Egypt as a safe and attractive country to the world.

He added that several important historical sites will be opened or partially opened by the end of the year including: The Baron’s Palace, Muhammad ‘Alî Palace and al-Kibâsh Road. al-‘Inânî also announced the engineering plan for renovating the Pyramids area will be done by July, except for cables. As for the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) logo he admitted: “I am not totally satisfied with the current logo. However, this is only a temporary logo to announce the opening of the first phase. On the other hand, why didn’t anyone notice that all except two museums in Egypt have no logos to begin with?” The minister then announced that a series of international competitions will be launched to design logos for all the museums.

Back to GEM, the minister declared that the museum’s first phase will be over by the end of 2018. The museum will receive its first display window, which is being transported from Germany, within the next few days, he added. He also announced that President ‘Abd al-Fattâh al-Sîsî ordered the museum to be funded directly through the state budget, giving it a LE100 million/month budget.

Finally, al-‘Inânî announced that Egypt is about to construct its first antique reproduction factory, with a LE one million budget, to cover productions to be sold

locally and internationally. All samples will have the Supreme Council of Antiquities’ stamp.

Minister of Tourism Rânyâ al-Mashât announced that the number of tourists visiting Egypt has jumped by 30 precent during the first quarter of 2018 compared to last year. But Egypt is still on its way to fully revive its tourism. The country has also taken steps to try and advertise it abroad, most notably by inviting soccer superstars Lionel MESSI and Cristiano RONALDO to visit Egypt in 2017, as well as Real Madrid’s Karim BENZEMA in 2018. (Farah Tawfeek, “New discoveries to be announced soon: Antiquities Minister”, Egypt Independent, June 30, 2018. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Les salaires, les titularisations et le syndicat : des dossiers qui attendent le ministre de l’Archéologie », Sada al-Balad, 14 juin ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie expose le programme de son ministère au cours des 4 prochaines années », al-Ahrâm, 20 juin ; Hind Mukhtâr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie présente devant le Parlement son plan d’action 2018-22 », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 20 juin ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « al-‘Inânî : Le soutien du gouvernement à l’archéologie est sans précédent », Sada al-Balad, 29 juin).

-

- -

-


VII - WHO’S WHO ?

Voici la liste alphabétique des principaux responsables égyptiens régulièrement cités dans le BIA :

Ministère de l’Archéologie

‘Abd al-Fattâh ‘Îd Président de l’Administration centrale des antiquités de Basse-Égypte

‘Abd al-Hamîd al-Kafâfî Directeur général de la planification et du suivi des restaurations

‘Abd al-Mun‘im Sa‘îd Mahmûd

Directeur général des antiquités d’Aswân et de Nubie

‘Abd al-Nâsir Ahmad ‘Abd al-‘Azîm

Directeur général de la restauration du temple de Karnak

‘Abd al-Rahîm ‘Alî al-Ma‘ddâwî

Directeur général des antiquités d’al-Buhayra

‘Abd al-Rahîm Rayhân Directeur général des recherches, des études archéologiques et de la publication scientifique en Basse-Égypte et au Sinaï

‘Abdallah Sa‘d Directeur général de la zone archéologique de Qâytbây, à l’Est du Caire

‘Âdil ‘Ukâsha Président de l’Administration centrale des antiquités du Caire et de Gîza

‘Âdil Dalla Directeur général des antiquités islamiques du Fayyûm

‘Âdil Ghunaym Directeur général des antiquités islamiques et coptes du Caire et de Gîza

‘Alâ’ al-Shahhât Vice-président du département des antiquités égyptiennes

‘Alâ’ Fawzî Muhammad Directeur de la documentation archéologique de Sâhil Silîm

‘Alî ‘Abd al-Zâhir Directeur général des antiquités du Nord d’al-Minyâ

‘Alî Ahmad ‘Alî Directeur général du département des antiquités restituées

‘Alî al-Bakrî Directeur général des antiquités de Mallawî

‘Alî Dâhî Directeur général du département des acquisitions archéologiques

‘Amr al-Tîbî Directeur exécutif de l’Unité des reproductions archéologiques

‘Âtif Muhammad al-Sa‘îd Directeur des entrepôts muséologiques islamiques et coptes à Fustât

‘Âtif Nagîb Vice-président du département des antiquités islamiques

‘Awnî Mukhtâr Hasan Directeur des antiquités de Fîrân et d’al-Tawr

‘Awnî Qustantîn Hilmî Directeur général de l’entrepôt muséologique de Tell Bastâ

‘Imâd ‘Uthmân Directeur général de la zone archéologique d’al-Darb al-Ahmar

W h o ’ s W h o ?


‘Imâd Hammâd Président du département de la restauration des antiquités de Rosette

‘Isâm Khamîs Directeur des antiquités de Mît Rahîna

‘Isâm Mughâzî ‘Abd al-Rahmân

Directeur général de l’entrepôt muséologique de Shatb

‘Izzat Habîb Salîb Directeur général de la restauration des musées du Grand Caire

Abû Bakr Ahmad ‘Abdallah Directeur général des antiquités du Nord du Caire

Ahmad ‘Abd al-‘Âl Directeur général des antiquités du Fayyûm

Ahmad ‘Abdallah Bilâl Directeur général du Centre des unités archéologiques de Damiette

Ahmad ‘Arabî Directeur général du temple de Louqsor

Ahmad ‘Awad Inspecteur en chef de la zone archéologique Ouest d’Aswân

Ahmad ‘Ubayd Superviseur du bureau technique du ministre de l’Archéologie

Ahmad al-Nimr Membre du bureau scientifique du ministre de l’Archéologie

Ahmad al-Sayyid Ahmad Sulaymân

Directeur de la zone archéologique de l’arbre de la Vierge Marie à Matariyya

Ahmad Fathî Directeur de la zone archéologique de Tell al-Amarna

Ahmad Hammûda Sayyid Inspecteur en chef des antiquités de Balât

Ahmad Hasan ‘Abd al-Mâgid

Inspecteur en chef des antiquités d’Abû Simbil

Ahmad Ibrâhîm Directeur des zones archéologiques al-Ibâgiyya et al-Tunsî

Ahmad Mahfûz Ibrâhîm Directeur de l’unité archéologique du port de Damiette

Ahmad Mûsa Directeur de l’Amphithéâtre romain d’Alexandrie

Ahmad Mûsa Mustafa Inspecteur en chef des antiquités de Khârga

Ahmad Mutâwi‘ Assistant du président du département des antiquités islamiques et coptes

Ahmad Sâlih Directeur général des antiquités d’Aswân

Ahmad Shu‘ayb Président de l’administration générale pour la restauration des antiquités et des musées du Delta Est

Ahmad Sulaymân ‘Abd al-‘Âal

Directeur général des antiquités islamiques et coptes d’Asyût

al-Hasan Tâhir Directeur général des antiquités du Nord de Minyâ

al-Husayn ‘Abd al-Basîr Directeur général du département de la publication scientifique

al-Qazzâfî ‘Abd al-Rahîm ‘Azab

Directeur de la zone archéologique de Karnak

al-Sa‘îd Hilmî Président de l’Administration centrale des antiquités du Caire et de Gîza

al-Sayyid al-Talhâwî Inspecteur en chef d’al-Daqahliyya

W h o ’ s W h o ?


al-Shâfi‘î Muhammad Zahrân Directeur général des fouilles archéologiques du Centre du Delta

Amîn Ramadân Directeur général de la zone archéologique d’al-Qurna

Amîna ‘Abd al-Munsif Directrice de la restauration des antiquités du Nord d’al-Munûfiyya

Amîna al-Bârûdî Assistante du ministre de l’Archéologie pour les services numériques

As’ad al-Amîn Directeur des antiquités islamiques et coptes de Qinâ

Ashraf ‘Abd al-Salâm Ibrâhîm

Inspecteur en chef des antiquités d’al-Gharbiyya

Ashraf ‘Ukâsha Directeur général des antiquités d’Abydos

Ashraf Muhyî al-Dîn Directeur général de la zone archéologique de Gîza

Ashraf Sayyid ‘Abd al-Salâm Directeur général des antiquités de Sayyida Zaynab et d’al-Khalîfa

Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî ‘Alî Président du secteur des antiquités égyptiennes

Ayman al-Gunaydî Directeur général du palais Muhammad ‘Alî à Shubrâ al-Khayma

Ayman Hindî Directeur de la zone archéologique de Qinâ

Bâsim ‘Imâd al-Ashqar Directeur général des antiquités d’al-Azhar et d’al-Ghûrî

Bâsim Gihâd Assistant du ministre de l’Archéologie pour le développement des ressources humaines

Dâlyâ Milîgî Directrice générale du Centre de recherches et de la maintenance des antiquités

Diyâ’ Gâd al-Karîm Directeur général des recherches et des études archéologiques dans le département des antiquités islamiques

Diyâ’ Zahrân Directeur général de l’enregistrement dans le département des antiquités islamiques et coptes

Doris Hannâ Directrice générale de l’Ancient Egyptian Art Revival Center

Gâbir Ahmad Hâziz Inspecteur en chef des antiquités de l’Ouest de Suhâg

Gamâl ‘Abd al-Halîm Farahât

Directeur général des antiquités de l’Ouest du Caire et d’al-Qalyûbiyya

Gamâl ‘Abd al-Nâsir Directeur général des antiquités de Suhâg

Gamâl Abû Bakr al-Samstâwî

Directeur des antiquités de Moyenne-Égypte

Gamâl Ahmad Muhammad Directeur général des antiquités de Maghâgha

Gamâl al-Faqîr Directeur général des antiquités de Maghâgha

Gamâl al-Hawwârî Directeur général de la zone archéologique du sultan Hasan et d’al-Rifâ‘î

Gamâl al-Simistâwî Directeur général des antiquités de Moyenne-Égypte

Gamâl al-Sûsânî Directeur de la zone archéologique d’al-Rahmâniyya, gouvernorat al-Buhayra

W h o ’ s W h o ?


Gamâl Fârûq al-Qassâs Directeur général de l’administration générale pour l’enregistrement des antiquités du Delta Centre

Gamâl Mustafa Président du département des antiquités islamiques et coptes et superviseur général de la zone archéologique du Sud du Caire

Gamâl Sâlim Ahmad Directeur général des antiquités de Kafr al-Shaykh

Gharîb Sunbul Président de l’administration centrale pour la restauration et la maintenance

Hâla Qadrî Silîm Directrice générale des ressources humaines

Hamdî Amîn Sayyid Inspecteur en chef de Saqqâra-Nord et Centre

Hamdî Hammâm Président de l’administration centrale des unités archéologiques portuaires

Hanân Hasan Mitwallî Directrice de l’inspectorat de Dâkhla

Hânî Abû al-‘Azm Président de l’Administration centrale des antiquités de Haute-Égypte

Hasan Muhammad Inspecteur en chef des antiquités de Dâkhla

Hasan Tâhir Inspecteur en chef de la zone archéologique du Nord de Minyâ

Hind Muhammad Abû al-Futûh

Directrice des antiquités du Nord d’al-Daqahliyya

Hisaniyya Muhammad Hilmî Fadîlî

Directrice générale des antiquités du Vieux Caire

Hishâm al-Laythî Directeur général du Centre de documentation et d’études de l’Égypte ancienne

Hishâm Gum‘a Inspecteur en chef des antiquités d’al-Azhar et d’al-Ghûrî

Husâm al-Dîn ‘Abbûd Directeur de la publication scientifique à Qinâ

Husâm Ghadiyya Directeur général des antiquités du Sud Sinaï

Ibrâhîm ‘Abd al-Rahmân Directeur général des zones archéologiques du Vieux Caire et de Fustât

Ibrâhîm al-‘Assâl Directeur de la zone archéologique d’al-Gharbiyya

Ibrâhîm al-Nuzûrî Directeur général de la documentation archéologique dans le département des antiquités islamiques et coptes

Ibrâhîm Mitwallî Directeur général des antiquités d’Alexandrie

Ibrâhîm Ragab Directeur des antiquités islamiques du Fayyûm

Ibrâhîm Rif‘at Directeur général de la zone archéologique de Mît Rahîna

Ibrâhîm Subhî Inspecteur en chef des antiquités d’al-Buhayra Nord

Îmân Zaydân Assistante du ministre de l’Archéologie pour le développement des ressources financières

Kamâl al-Tûkhî Restaurateur d’icônes antiques

Kâmil Ahmad Directeur de la zone archéologique de la Nouvelle Vallée

W h o ’ s W h o ?


Khâlid ‘Abd al-Ghanî Farahât

Directeur de la zone archéologique d’al-Buhayra

Khâlid Abû al-Hamd Directeur général des antiquités d’Alexandrie

Khâlid Ahmad Shawqî Directeur des antiquités d’Abû Simbil

Khâlid al-‘Inânî Ministre de l’Archéologie

Khâlid Muhammad Abû al-‘Ilâ

Directeur général des antiquités de Matariyya et de ‘Ayn Shams

Khidr Madbûlî Directeur général des antiquités du Nord du Caire

Magdî Husayn Muhammad Directeur général de la zone archéologique de Khârga

Magdî Ibrâhîm Directeur général des antiquités d’al-Dâkhla

Magdî Muhammad ‘Awad Directeur des temples rupestres de Nubie

Magdî Shawqî Midyâr Directeur de la zone archéologique au Sud d’Asyût

Mahmûd ‘Abd al-Latîf Directeur de la zone archéologique de Abû Ridîs

Mahmûd ‘Abd al-Qâdir ‘Abd al-Salâm

Directeur des antiquités d’Alexandrie Ouest

Mahmûd Barîqî Président du département de restauration à Kom al-Shuqâfa

Mahmûd Musa Directeur général du palais Empain

Mahmûd Ragab Directeur général de la zone archéologique de Suez

Mahmûd Salâh Directeur général des antiquités de Minyâ

Mahmûd Sha‘bân Directeur des antiquités islamiques et coptes au sud de Gîza

Mahrûs Sa‘îd Directeur général du Nubian Antiquities Salvage Fund

Mamdûh ‘Uda Directeur général du département central de la gestion des crises et des risques

Mamdûh Taha Superviseur archéologique du projet de la deuxième barque de Chéops

Mansûr ‘Uthmân Directeur général des antiquités islamiques de la Nouvelle Vallée

Marwa ‘Abd al-Râziq Responsable du bureau d’enregistrement, de documentation et de la gestion des collections au Musée Égyptien

Mîmî Ibrâhîm ‘Abd al-Samî‘ Directeur général de la zone archéologique d’al-Gharbiyya

Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Azîm Husayn

Inspecteur du temple d’Hibis à Khârga

Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Azîz Directeur du Historic Cairo Rehabilitation Project (HCRP)

Muhammad ‘Abd al-Hamîd Directeur des antiquités d’Alexandrie Est

Muhammad ‘Abd al-Hamîd Muhammad Râshid

Directeur général de la zone archéologique Est du Caire

Muhammad ‘Abd al-Maqsûd Coordinateur général du projet de développement des sites archéologiques situés dans l’axe du canal de Suez

W h o ’ s W h o ?


Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mun‘im ‘Uwayda

Directeur général des affaires financières

Muhammad Abû al-Wafâ Directeur général des antiquités de la mer Rouge

Muhammad Abû Srî‘ Directeur général des antiquités d’al-Gamâliyya

Muhammad Ahmad ‘Uthmân

Directeur de l’Administration de la documentation archéologique d’Asyût

Muhammad al-Husaynî Tamân

Directeur général des antiquités islamiques, coptes et juives de Basse-Égypte et du Sinaï

Muhammad al-Sayyid al-Sawwâf

Directeur général des antiquités d’al-Gharbiyya

Muhammad al-Sayyid Muhannadî

Directeur général des antiquités d’Asyût

Muhammad al-Tuhâmî Directeur général des antiquités de Rosette

Muhammad Badîr Khalîl Directeur des antiquités du Sud Sinaï

Muhammad Hamâda Directeur général des antiquités du Caire et de Gîza

Muhammad Hamâda Superviseur des monastères de Wâdî al-Natrûn

Muhammad Husayn Hindâwî Inspecteur en chef de Saqqâra-Sud

Muhammad Ibrâhîm Muhammad

Directeur des antiquités de Khârga

Muhammad Ismâ‘îl Superviseur du Comité permanent et des missions archéologiques étrangères

Muhammad Mahmûd Directeur général de la zone archéologique de Qinâ

Muhammad Mahrân Président de l’administration centrale pour les antiquités juives

Muhammad Mitwallî Directeur général des antiquités islamiques, coptes et juives d’Alexandrie et de la côte Nord

Muhammad Muhammad ‘Abd al-Badî‘

Directeur du Comité permanent des antiquités égyptiennes

Muhammad Muhammad ‘Alî ‘Uthmân

Directeur général des unités archéologiques des ports

Muhammad Mustafa ‘Abbâs Directeur de la zone archéologique de l’imâm al-Shâfi‘î

Muhammad Mustafa ‘Abd al-Magîd

Superviseur général de l’administration centrale d’archéologie sous-marine en Alexandrie

Muhammad Rashâd Directeur général des antiquités de l’Est du Caire

Muhammad Rashâd ‘Abd al-Hamîd

Directeur général des antiquités d’al-Munûfiyya

Muhammad Sa‘îd Dusûqî Directeur général de la zone archéologique de l’imâm al-Shâfi‘î

Muhammad Sayf al-Sayyid Vice-directeur général des ressources humaines

Muhammad Yûsuf Directeur des antiquités de Dahshûr et d’al-Lisht

W h o ’ s W h o ?


Muhammad Zayn Directeur de la zone archéologique du Vieux-Caire

Muhsin al-Badawî Directeur général des antiquités d’al-Qalyûbiyya

Mukhtâr al-Kasabânî Conseiller du ministre de l’Archéologie

Muna Yusrî Inspectrice en chef d’Asyût

Mushîra Mûsa Conseillère médiatique du ministre de l’Archéologie

Mustafa ‘Abd al-‘Azîz Directeur général des zones archéologiques d’al-Minyâ

Mustafa ‘Uthmân Directeur général des antiquités du Delta Centre

Mustafa Ahmad Mahmûd Directeur général des antiquités de Haute-Égypte

Mustafa al-Saghîr Directeur général des antiquités de Karnak

Mustafa Amîn Président du département des antiquités islamiques, coptes et juives et Conseiller du ministre de l’Archéologie pour les affaires techniques

Mustafa Faysal Directeur de l’entrepôt muséologique de Kom Ûshîm

Mustafa Muhammad Nûr al-Dîn

Directeur des antiquités de Sirâbît al-Khâdim

Mustafa Rizq Ibrâhîm Directeur général de la préhistoire au Sud Sinaï

Mustafa Rushdî Directeur général des antiquités du Delta Ouest (Marsa Matrûh, al-Buhayra et Mârînâ)

Mustafa Shawqî Ibrâhîm Directeur général des antiquités d’al-Sharqiyya

Mustafa Subhî Directeur général du suivi technique des antiquités du Caire et de Gîza

Mustafa Wazîrî Secrétaire général du Conseil Suprême des Antiquités (CSA)

Nâdya Khidr Présidente de l’administration centrale des antiquités égyptiennes, grecques et romaines au Delta, au Sinaï et sur la côte Nord

Nâgî Hanafî Mahmûd Directeur général de la zone archéologique de la citadelle de Saladin

Nagwa Mitwallî Directrice générale de l’Administration de la publication scientifique

Nasr Gibrîl Ibrâhîm Président de l’Administration centrale des saisies archéologiques

Ni‘ma Sanad Directrice générale de la zone archéologique de Mârînâ

Nirvîn Muhammad Hâfiz Directrice générale des antiquités de l’Ouest du Caire

Nivîn al-‘Ârif Consultante médiatique du ministre de l’Archéologie

Nûbî Mahmûd Ahmad Directeur général de l’administration des fouilles

Qutb Fawzî Qutb Directeur de la zone archéologique de Kafr al-Shaykh

Ra’fat Muhammad Gunaydî Directeur de l’inspectorat archéologique du Sud d’al-Buhayra

Rashâ Kamâl Directrice générale du département du développement culturel

Râshid Muhammad Badrî Directeur de l’inspectorat archéologique de l’Ouest de Suhâg

W h o ’ s W h o ?


Ridâ Ramadân Directeur général des antiquités de Damiette

Rif‘at al-Gindî Directeur de l’inspectorat archéologique du Sud d’al-Buhayra

Sa‘îd Shibl Président de l’administration centrale des entrepôts muséologiques

Sabrî Muhyî al-Dîn Farag Directeur général des antiquités de Saqqâra

Sabrî Yûsuf ‘Abd al-Rahmân Directeur de la zone archéologique de Dâkhla et de Farâfra

Salâh al-Hâdî Directeur général de la restauration des antiquités islamiques de Bi’r al-‘Abd et d’al-Qantara Sharq

Salâh al-Mâsikh Inspecteur en chef des temples de Karnak à Louqsor

Salâma Zahrân Directeur général des antiquités islamiques et coptes d’al-Bahnasâ

Sâlim al-Bughdâdî Directeur général de la zone archéologique d’al-Daqahliyya

Sayyid ‘Abd al-‘Alîm Directeur de la zone archéologique d’al-Qantara Sharq

Sayyid Ahmad ‘Abd al-Râwî Superviseur de l’Administration des carrières et des mines

Sayyid al-Shûra Directeur général des antiquités du Fayyûm

Sha‘bân ‘Abd al-Gawwâd Superviseur général du département des antiquités restituées

Sharîf Fawzî Coordinateur général de la rue al-Mu‘izz l-Dîn Allah al-Fâtimî

Sharîf Hâmid Directeur des antiquités du Vieux-Caire

Sharîf Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mun‘im

Assistant du ministre de l’Archéologie pour le développement des sites archéologiques

Shâzlî Dunqul Inspecteur en chef de Qinâ

Sophia ‘Abd al-Hâdî Directrice générale des antiquités d’al-Darb al-Ahmar et de Sayyida ‘Â’isha

Suhayr al-Sayyid Qunsuwwa Directrice générale des antiquités du Vieux-Caire et de Fustât

Sumayya Binyâmîn Présidente du département des Financements

Suzi Labîb Directrice générale des antiquités d’Idfû

Târiq Ahmad Mukhtâr Hirsh Directeur général des antiquités de l’Est du Delta, et sous-directeur du secrétaire général du CSA

Târiq Gharîb Directeur général des antiquités d’al-Azhar et d’al-Ghûrî

Usâma al-Sayyid Directeur de la citadelle Qâytbây en Alexandrie

Usâma Farîd ‘Uthmân Directeur de l’entrepôt muséologique de Tell al-Farâ‘în à Kafr al-Shaykh

Usâma Hâmid Directeur de l’entrepôt muséologique des pyramides

Usâma Wahba Directeur général de l’entrepôt muséologique de Tell al-Yahûdiyya

Wa‘d Abû al-‘Ilâ Président du secteur des projets

Wâ’il Fathî Inspecteur en chef du plateau de Gîza

Wâ’il Zakariyyâ al-Balîhî Directeur général de la restauration des antiquités islamiques et coptes dans l’ouest et le centre du Delta

W h o ’ s W h o ?


- -

Musées

‘Abd al-Râziq al-Naggâr Secrétaire général de la commission nationale égyptienne pour les musées

‘Alâ’ ‘Abd al-‘Âtî Directeur général du musée national de Suez

‘Îsa Zaydân Directeur du département de restauration au Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM)

Ahmad ‘Alî Directeur général des équipements du Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM)

Ahmad al-Laythî Directeur général du musée de Mallawî

Ahmad Humayda Directeur général du musée Atonien

al-Husayn ‘Abd al-Basîr Directeur du musée archéologique de la Bibliotheca Alexandrina

al-Sayyid ‘Abd al-Fattâh Directeur général du musée archéologique d’Ismâ‘îliyya

al-Sayyid al-Bannâ Directeur général du musée national de Suez

Ashraf Abû al-Yazîd Directeur général du musée des Textiles égyptiens

Gamâl al-Bilim Directeur général de la bibliothèque du Musée Égyptien

Gîhân ‘Âtif Directrice générale du musée Copte

Hishâm Farghalî Directeur général du musée du Nil à Aswân

Huda Kamâl Directrice générale du musée de l’obélisque de Matariyya

Wagdî ‘Abbâs Abû Ahmad Directeur général du bureau technique du département des antiquités islamiques, et vice-président du secteur des antiquités islamiques et coptes

Wahîba Sâlih Directrice des antiquités de Dahshûr

Walâ’ al-Dîn Badawî Directeur général du palais Manyal

Wisâm Kamâl Directeur de la zone archéologique de Sammanûd

Yâsir ‘Îsa Zaghlûl Directeur de la zone archéologique d’al-Munûfiyya

Yâsir Fathî Wahba Directeur général de l’administration du cadastre et de la topographie dans le secteur des antiquités islamiques

Yâsmîn al-Shâzlî Directrice de l’administration des organisations internationales pour le patrimoine culturel et les affaires de la coopération internationale

Yusriyya Ibrâhîm Directrice générale de la zone archéologique de Mustafa Kâmil en Alexandrie

Yûsuf Khalîfa Président de l’administration centrale des antiquités de Basse-Égypte, du Sinaï et de la côte Nord

W h o ’ s W h o ?


Husnî ‘Abd al-Rahîm Directeur général du musée de la Nubie

Ibrâhîm al-Sharîf Directeur général du musée archéologique de Suhâg

Ibtisâm Khalîl Directrice générale du musée national d’Alexandrie

Ilhâm Salâh al-Dîn Présidente du secteur des musées

Îmân Shawqî Superviseur du musée de la Barque de Chéops

Karam ‘Abd al-Hamîd Muhammad

Directeur général du musée Gayer-Anderson

Khâlid ‘Azab Président du conseil d’administration de la commission nationale égyptienne pour les musées

Magdî Mansûr Directeur général de la restauration du musée Copte

Mahâ Muhammad Présidente de l’administration centrale des musées historiques

Mahrûs Sa‘îd Superviseur général du musée national de la Civilisation égyptienne (NMEC)

Mamdûh Hasan ‘Uthmân Superviseur général du musée d’Art islamique

Mamdûh Ramadân Conservateur en chef du musée de Kom Ûshîm

Mirvat ‘Izzat Directrice générale du Musée Gayer-Anderson (Bayt al-Kiritliyya)

Mirvat Yahya Directrice générale du musée national d’Alexandrie

Mu’min ‘Uthmân Directeur général de la restauration au Musée Égyptien

Muhammad ‘Abd al-Rasûl Président de l’Administration centrale des antiquités islamiques de Haute-Égypte

Muhammad Badr Directeur des magasins et des registres du Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM)

Muhammad Sayyid al-Sharqâwî

Directeur du musée de ROMMEL

Nabîla Hasanayn Directrice générale du palais al-Gawhara

Rândâ Muhammad ‘Abd al-Ra’ûf

Directrice générale des musées régionaux

Sa‘îd ‘Abd al-Hamîd Directeur général de la restauration des musées archéologiques

Sa‘îd Rakhâ Directeur général du musée archéologique de Rosette

Sabâh ‘Abd al-Râziq Directrice générale du Musée Égyptien de Tahrîr

Sabâh Muslim Directrice générale des musées de Basse-Égypte

Sâmih al-Masrî Directeur général de la planification et de la restauration des musées

Sanâ’ Ahmad ‘Alî Directrice générale des musées de Haute-Égypte

Târiq Mahmûd Directeur général du musée archéologique de la Nouvelle Vallée

Târiq Tawfîq Superviseur général du projet du Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM)

W h o ’ s W h o ?


Usâma Abû al-Khayr Directeur exécutif du centre de restauration du Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM)

Walâ’ al-Dîn Badawî Directeur général du musée du palais Manyal

Zaynab ‘Alî Directrice du musée archéologique de la Bibliotheca Alexandrina

- -

Universités

‘Abbâs Mansûr Président de l’Université du Sud de la Vallée

‘Abd al-Qâdir Muhammad Président de l’Université d’Aswân

‘Abd al-Wahâb ‘Izzat Président de l’université de ‘Ayn Shams

‘Âtif Mansûr Doyen de la faculté d’Archéologie, université du Fayyûm

Ahmad al-Ansârî Chef du département d’archéologie égyptienne à l’université de Suhâg

Ahmad Ghallâb Président de l’université d’Aswân

Amîn Lutfî Président de l’université de Banî Swayf

Fâyza Haykal Professeur d’égyptologie à l’American University in Cairo (AUC)

Gamâl al-Dîn ‘Alî Abû al-Magd

Président de l’université de Minyâ

Hânî Hilâl Ancien ministre de l’Enseignement supérieur, professeur de polytechnique à la faculté Polytechnique, univeristé du Caire

Hiba Kamâl Mustafa Doyenne de la faculté d’Archéologie, université du Caire

Khâlid Gharîb Président du département des antiquités grecques et romaines à l’université Misr

Khâlid Hamza Président de l’université du Fayyûm

Khâlid Hasan ‘Abd a-Bârî Président de l’université de Zaqâzîq

Mâgid Nigm Président de l’université de Hilwân

Mamdûh al-Damâtî Ancien ministre de l’Archéologie, professeur d’archéologie à l’université de Lettres, université de ‘Ayn Shams

Mansûr al-Nûbî Doyen de la faculté d’Archéologie de Louqsor

Mansûr al-Nûbî Doyen de la Faculté d’Archéologie de Louqsor

Muhammad ‘Uthmân al-Khasht

Président de l’université du Caire

Muhammad Hamza Ismâ‘îl Doyen de la faculté d’Archéologie, université du Caire

Muhammad Hasan al-Qinâwî

Président de l’université d’al-Mansûra

W h o ’ s W h o ?


Muhammad Kamâl Khallâf Président du département de la restauration à la faculté d’Archéologie, université du Fayyûm

Mukhtâr al-Kasabânî Professeur d’archéologie islamique, université du Caire et conseiller scientifique du ministre de l’Archéologie

Muna Fu’âd Chef du département de restauration de la faculté d’Archéologie, université du Caire

Muna Haggâg Chef du département des études grecques et romaines à la faculté de Lettres, université d’Alexandrie

Muna Sha‘bân Hâfiz Sous-directeur du président du département des musées archéologiques

Nâsir Mikkâwî Chef du département d’Archéologie à la faculté d’Archéologie, université du Caire

Ra’fat al-Nabarâwî Professeur d’archéologie islamique à l’université du Caire

Salâh al-Khûlî Professeur d’archéologie à la faculté d’Archéologie de l’université du Caire

Sâmî Sabrî Shâkir Doyen de l’Institut des études coptes

- -

Pouvoir exécutif

‘Abd al-Hamîd al-Haggân Gouverneur de Qinâ

‘Âdil al-Ghadbân Gouverneur de Port Sa‘îd

‘Alâ’ Abû Zayd Gouverneur de Matrûh

‘Âtif ‘Abd al-Hamîd Gouverneur du Caire

‘Isâm al-Badîwî Gouverneur d’al-Minyâ

Ahmad ‘Abd al-Zâhir Directeur de la Police du Tourisme et des Antiquités

Ahmad ‘Abdallah Gouverneur de la mer Rouge

Ahmad Saqr Gouverneur d’al-Gharbiyya

Ayman ‘Abd al-Mun‘im Gouverneur de Suhâg

Hishâm ‘Abd al-Bâsit Gouverneur d’al-Munûfiyya

Ibrâhîm Nasr Gouverneur de Kafr al-Shaykh

Inâs ‘Abd al-Dâyyim Ministre de la Culture

Kamâl al-Dâlî Gouverneur de Gîza

Khâlid Sa‘îd Gouverneur d’al-Sharqiyya

Magdî Higâzî Gouverneur d’Aswân

Muhammad ‘Ashmâwî Gouverneur de la Nouvelle Vallée

W h o ’ s W h o ?


Muhammad Badr Gouverneur de Louqsor

Muhammad Mukhtâr Gum‘a Ministre des Waqfs

Muhammad Sultân Gouverneur d’Alexandrie

Nâdya ‘Abdu Gouverneur d’al-Buhayra

Ridâ Farahât Gouverneur d’al-Qalyûbiyya

Sharîf Habîb Gouverneur de Banî Swayf

Sharîf Ismâ‘îl Premier ministre

Târiq Nasr Gouverneur de Minyâ

Wâ’il Makram Gouverneur du Fayyûm

Yahya Râshid Ministre du Tourisme

Yâsîn Tâhir Gouverneur d’Ismâ‘îliyya

Yâsir al-Dusûqî Gouverneur d’Asyût

- -

Divers

‘Alî Radwân Président de l’Union générale des archéologues arabes

Ahmad ‘Awwâd Président du Fonds de développement culturel (CDF)

Ahmad al-Skukî Président du Dâr al-kutub wa-l-wathâ’iq al-misriyya

Ciara BERDISKI Responsable culturel du bureau de l’Unesco au Caire

Fathî Sâlih Conseiller pour les affaires du patrimoine auprès du conseil des ministres

Hânî Hilâl ScanPyramids Projet coordinator

Husâm Ismâ‘îl Professeur d’archéologie islamique à l’université de ‘Ayn Shams et président de l’Association du patrimoine et des arts traditionnels

Lu’ayy Sa‘îd Directeur du Centre des études coptes

Monica Hannâ Présidente de l’Unité archéologique à l’Académie arabe des sciences, technologies et transport maritime

Muhammad Abû Si‘da Président du National Organisation for Urban Harmony (NOUH)

Muhammad al-Kahlâwî Secrétaire général de l’Union générale des archéologues arabes

Muhammad Fârûq Directeur du National Center for Documentation of Cultural and Natural Heritage (CULTNAT)

Muna ‘Abd al-Ghanî Haggâg

Présidente de l’Association des antiquités grecques en Alexandrie

Muna Haggâg Présidente de l’Association des antiquités d’Alexandrie

W h o ’ s W h o ?


Mustafa al-Fiqî Directeur de la Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Nagwa al-Shâzlî Présidente du conseil d’administration du Sound and Light Company

Ra’fat al-Nabarâwî Ancien doyen de la faculté d’Archéologie

Safâ Mahmûd Président de l’université de Suhâg

Sâlih Lam‘î Professeur d’architecture et directeur du Centre de ressuscitation du patrimoine architectural islamique

-

- -

-


VIII - INDEX

A

ADN ........................ 27, 47, 48, 77, 95, 96, 155 Aéroports

Aéroport de Burg al-‘Arab ............... 219, 220 Aéroport international du Caire .. 53, 64, 139,

218 Agences de presse

Agence France Presse (AFP) ...................... 55 Middle East News Agency (MENA) .... 40, 79,

81, 192, 259 Reuters ............................... 64, 115, 145, 184

al-Azhar 90, 118, 119, 120, 135, 136, 190, 222, 244, 255, 290, 292, 298

Amphore ....................................................... 14 Amulette . 60, 77, 104, 154, 162, 193, 197, 217,

264 Anastylose ................................................... 225 Anatomie humaine

Barbe ............................................... 185, 194 Squelette ..................................... 14, 95, 231 Torse .......................................................... 99

Ankh .................................................... 137, 138 Arabesque ................................................... 238 Archéobotanique ........................................ 168 Armée ............................ 77, 133, 209, 230, 251 Armes

Char .... 52, 78, 155, 165, 166, 174, 206, 213, 214, 215, 216, 252

Épée ........................................................ 210 Flèche .............................................. 162, 210 Fusil ......................................... 154, 210, 215 Lance ............................... 127, 150, 246, 262 Pistolet ..................................................... 210 Poignard .................................... 77, 138, 210

Artères historiques Rue al-Khalîfa ........................... 222, 246, 290 Rue al-Mu‘izz l-Dîn Allâh al-Fâtimî 34, 51, 69,

88, 119, 135, 257, 297 Rue al-Salîba ............................................ 209

Artisanat ...................................................... 131 Artisans ........................ 23, 42, 43, 44, 155, 273 Associations

Association Internationale des Égyptologues (AIE) ...................................................... 265

Astrolabe ..................................................... 222 Astronomie .................................................... 98

B

Bâb-s Bâb al-Hadîd ................................ 45, 68, 106 Bâb al-Wazîr ....................................... 35, 255 Bâb Zuwayla ....................................... 70, 255

Bactérie ......................................................... 95 Bains ............................................ 224, 228, 229 Bandelette ............................................... 77, 78 Barques .. 39, 57, 58, 71, 72, 77, 81, 82, 83, 92,

93, 134, 150, 162, 170, 208, 241, 284, 293 Barque de Chéops ..................... 58, 293, 300 Barque solaire ............ 57, 58, 71, 72, 81, 150

Barrages Haut barrage d’Aswân ......................... 25, 51

Basilique .......................................... 30, 31, 233 Bateau ........................... 16, 133, 230, 240, 241 Bible .................................................. 16, 20, 21 Bibliothèques ............ 16, 19, 21, 117, 213, 300

AUC Rare Books and Special Collections Library .................................................... 61

Bibliotheca Alexandrina .... 26, 132, 149, 153, 200, 271, 272, 273, 299, 302, 306

Bibliothèque du monastère de Sainte-Catherine .......................................... 16, 19

Bière ............................................................ 230 Bijoux 70, 87, 89, 101, 122, 124, 150, 175, 252,

254, 274 Bracelet .................................... 125, 153, 254 Colliers ..................................................... 254

Bîmâristâns .............................................. 33, 35 Bîmâristân al-Mu’ayyid Shaykh .................. 35

Boussole ...................................................... 222 Bustes .............................. 11, 78, 129, 140, 156

C

Cachettes ...................... 74, 118, 175, 183, 225 Café Riche ................................................... 110 Cairo Opera House ................................. 45, 74 Calligraphies ................ 135, 136, 137, 263, 264

Kufi ................................................... 137, 210

I n d e x


Canneaux Canal de Suez .......... 106, 125, 126, 127, 294

Carrières ............................ 44, 68, 91, 165, 172 Cartographie ........... 80, 96, 253, 262, 268, 271 Cartonnage ............. 14, 76, 128, 143, 230, 284 Cartouche ...................... 10, 12, 60, 73, 90, 123 Catacombes ................................ 14, 40, 41, 42

Catacombes de Kom al-Shuqâfa .. 10, 41, 42, 293

Catalogue .................................... 137, 202, 203 CD-ROM ...................................................... 241 Centres de recherches

American Research Center in Egypt (ARCE) ............................................. 159, 273, 274

Center of Documentation and Studies of Ancient Egypt ...................................... 291

Centre d’Études Alexandrines (CEAlex) . 212, 223, 225, 226

Centre Franco-Égyptien d’Études des Temples de Karnak (CFEETK) ..... 212, 223, 225

Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) ...................... 212, 224

National Center for Documentation of Cultural and Natural Heritage (CULTNAT) ............................................................. 305

Polish Centre of Mediterranean Archaeology in Cairo (PCMA) ................................ 30, 31

Céramique ..................... 89, 135, 137, 195, 267 Cercueil ................................................... 12, 43 Céréales ...................................................... 256 Chaînes de télévision .............. 25, 79, 146, 152

BBC .......................................................... 147 Chambre funéraire ..... 13, 73, 83, 84, 129, 214,

216, 225 Chandelier ................................................... 211 Chapelles ... 15, 21, 83, 98, 101, 122, 133, 153,

185, 194, 208, 225, 231, 274 Chapelle d’Alexandre le Grand ............... 225

Cimetières .... 14, 23, 28, 29, 31, 39, 40, 43, 82, 83, 103, 104, 105, 123, 165, 179, 182, 183, 200, 229, 230, 231 Cimetière ouest de Gîza ................ 81, 83, 84

Citadelles ............ 141, 142, 206, 237, 239, 257 Citadelle de Qâytbây ....... 141, 142, 272, 298 Citadelle du Caire .................... 138, 206, 237

Citernes ................................................... 34, 35 Collectionneur ............................................. 240 Colonnes .. 9, 28, 54, 59, 70, 98, 119, 123, 138,

139, 172, 182, 185, 196, 244, 245, 275, 281

Colosses . 44, 45, 48, 49, 55, 56, 65, 67, 68, 93, 121, 138, 139, 150, 151, 153, 166, 167, 168, 170, 173, 174, 176, 196, 204, 261, 275 Colosse de Ramsès II ..... 45, 49, 56, 139, 176 Colosses de Memnon ................................ 13

Comités ...... 27, 64, 73, 85, 101, 110, 140, 165, 179, 195, 218, 219, 232, 236, 241, 248, 249, 257, 263, 264, 265, 266, 284 Comité de Conservation des Monuments de

l’Art Arabe ............................................ 233 Comité permanent des Antiquités du CSA

...... 26, 32, 66, 85, 93, 148, 184, 191, 214, 235, 295

Commerce ........................................... 117, 219 Compagnies du BTP

Orascom Construction Industries ...... 50, 277 The Arab Contractors Osman Ahmed

Osman & Co. .... 44, 49, 56, 65, 68, 86, 238 Congrès ............................... 159, 205, 216, 266 Conseil Suprême des Antiquités 28, 34, 36, 38,

41, 46, 52, 53, 66, 72, 73, 82, 84, 85, 86, 92, 94, 96, 101, 103, 104, 137, 141, 160, 163, 164, 172, 174, 183, 184, 190, 194, 198, 205, 206, 214, 216, 222, 227, 228, 235, 236, 239, 240, 247, 256, 265, 279, 280, 283, 285, 296, 298

Conservation .. 9, 13, 17, 20, 42, 57, 65, 71, 72, 73, 83, 103, 104, 116, 138, 170, 191, 196, 202, 204, 225, 238, 245, 251, 252, 254, 255, 266, 277, 280

Coopération ... 13, 15, 51, 70, 92, 96, 117, 159, 186, 197, 211, 216, 233, 256, 257, 273, 277, 299

Coran ................................... 179, 191, 222, 280 Cosmétique ................................. 107, 137, 210 Couleurs

blanc ................................................ 117, 238 bleu .... 35, 104, 117, 138, 151, 153, 211, 217 jaune ........................................................ 274 noir ........... 9, 13, 27, 153, 156, 174, 215, 218 orange ............................. 211, 263, 264, 266 rose .................................................... 70, 269 rouge ......................................................... 31 vert ........................................................... 217

Coupole ....................................................... 112 Couronne ........ 11, 70, 133, 138, 153, 174, 229 Croix ............................................................ 210

D

Demeures bourgeoises Bayt al-Qâdî ......................................... 69, 70

I n d e x


Dépôt de fondation ....................................... 46 Description de l’Égypte ................................. 72 Déserts ... 31, 64, 117, 131, 132, 133, 134, 223,

224, 231, 268 Désert Occidental ...................................... 62

Nouvelle Vallée .... 133, 292, 293, 301, 304 Désert Oriental ................ 129, 224, 267, 268

Disque solaire ................................ 29, 133, 134 Divinités .. 9, 10, 23, 28, 81, 121, 122, 123, 124,

145, 151, 154, 165, 166, 174, 178, 257 Amon ..................... 12, 15, 23, 138, 185, 208 Amon-Rê ............ 23, 133, 156, 175, 185, 257 Amun-Gereb .................................... 153, 154 Anoukis ...................................................... 23 Anubis ...................................................... 101 Aphrodite ......................................... 154, 178 Apis .................................................. 154, 178 Bastet ....................................... 121, 122, 217 Bès ........................................................... 217 Djéhouty .................................................... 14 Duamutef ................................................. 156 Hâpy ................................................ 151, 153 Harpocrate ............................................... 178 Hathor .. 10, 81, 125, 133, 165, 166, 174, 215 Horus ............. 15, 37, 77, 104, 125, 134, 178 Isis ... 133, 150, 151, 153, 177, 178, 179, 197,

278 Khnoum ............................................. 23, 125 Khonsou ........................................... 257, 273 Mereretséger ............................................. 23 Neith ........................................................ 197 Nekhbet ..................................................... 15 Nout ......................................................... 104 Osiris .......................................... 16, 178, 186 Ptah ............................ 23, 45, 67, 68, 83, 178 Rê ............................................................. 138 Rê-Horakhty ..................................... 138, 140 Satis ........................................................... 23 Sekhmet ............................... 12, 13, 145, 197 Sérapis ............................. 150, 153, 178, 272 Seth .................................................... 77, 134 Thot ................................................... 77, 103

Dômes ............. 31, 49, 120, 188, 199, 239, 255 Donation ....................................................... 84 Double couronne ................................ 138, 174 Dromos . 59, 171, 172, 175, 176, 183, 184, 204,

268, 285

E

Eau souterraine ....... 54, 97, 185, 197, 198, 245

Écritures Démotique ......................................... 14, 178 Hiéroglyphes ...... 14, 23, 27, 31, 73, 91, 104,

140, 145, 153, 154, 178, 200, 201, 202, 228, 267

Églises19, 24, 25, 27, 30, 31, 32, 171, 233, 234 Église al-Butrusiyya .................................. 233 Église al-Mu‘allaqa ............................. 25, 257 Église Saint-Serge ............................ 257, 259

Enchères .............................. 144, 146, 180, 260 Entrepôts muséologiques ........... 288, 296, 298 Entreprises

BESIX Group ............................................ 277 Egyptian Sound and Light Show Company

(ESLSC) ................................... 48, 260, 261 Environnement ................................ 12, 95, 278 Époques

byzantine ................. 21, 24, 25, 86, 130, 131 copte ... 20, 24, 25, 26, 31, 32, 130, 131, 136,

137, 142, 170, 184, 188, 190, 191, 210, 237, 238, 243, 247, 248, 256, 257, 258, 281

gréco-romaine 10, 14, 28, 29, 41, 42, 58, 59, 71, 132, 149, 153, 158, 160, 220, 224, 226, 228, 229, 236, 269, 273, 282

grecque ...... 20, 21, 40, 42, 52, 98, 122, 153, 154, 160, 177, 178, 217, 257, 275

hellénistique .................. 28, 29, 41, 178, 224 islamique ... 19, 22, 51, 90, 94, 130, 131, 210,

211, 221, 222, 233, 256, 300, 303, 305, 306 ayyoubide ............................ 119, 233, 255 fatimide ....... 102, 119, 135, 136, 137, 210,

211, 233 mamelouke . 33, 34, 35, 70, 120, 142, 180,

181, 182, 188, 189, 190, 199, 233, 239, 244, 255, 256

ottomane ................ 70, 120, 210, 211, 219 kouchite ................................................... 280 Moyen Âge ........................................ 16, 258 pharaonique

Ancien Empire ... 52, 53, 60, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 105, 123, 124, 134, 142, 143, 223, 224, 229, 230, 231 IIIe dynastie ....................................... 134 IVe dynastie ................................. 53, 123 Ve dynastie ..... 15, 36, 37, 53, 81, 82, 83,

84, 143 VIe dynastie ................................... 36, 60

I n d e x


Basse époque .... 9, 11, 105, 142, 185, 281 XXVIe dynastie ..... 11, 98, 103, 105, 224,

280, 281 XXVIIe dynastie ................................. 193 XXXe dynastie ................................... 143

Deuxième Période intermédiaire XIIIe dynastie ....................................... 12

Dynastie 0 ............................................ 268 dynasties

XVIIe dynastie ................................ 11, 12 Moyen Empire ..... 11, 12, 53, 97, 105, 123,

127, 129, 229, 230, 231 XIIe dynastie .......................... 82, 95, 231

Nouvel Empire 12, 13, 14, 15, 42, 98, 105, 144, 193, 207, 208 XIXe dynastie .... 53, 54, 96, 97, 117, 167 XVIIIe dynastie ...... 12, 46, 125, 146, 175,

182, 183 XXe dynastie ............................... 76, 123

Première Période intermédiaire ..... 14, 105 Ramesside .................................... 144, 167 Troisième Période intermédiaire ... 54, 122,

185, 193 XXIe dynastie ................................ 54, 76

prédynastique ............ 71, 115, 124, 267, 268 Nagada I .............................................. 267

préhistoire .................................. 49, 211, 296 ptolémaïque ... 14, 36, 53, 92, 105, 140, 141,

151, 153, 154, 167, 177, 179 ramesside ................................................ 194 romaine ..... 14, 15, 29, 41, 42, 53, 66, 90, 91,

123, 124, 130, 142, 143, 144, 157, 158, 177, 178, 185, 193, 194, 217, 218, 236, 257, 258, 267, 268, 275, 296, 302, 303

saïte ................................................... 98, 123 Équinoxe ....................................................... 99 Érosion .................................................. 54, 254 Esclave .......................................................... 16 Exposition archéologique .... 19, 22, 23, 41, 42,

43, 62, 65, 72, 88, 90, 92, 94, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 147, 148, 149, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 157, 161, 162, 163, 164, 177, 179, 186, 187, 202, 203, 209, 210, 211, 221, 222, 225, 227, 228, 250, 252, 253, 261, 263, 264, 265, 269, 273, 274, 275, 276, 284

F

Faïence .................... 73, 89, 103, 156, 217, 284

Famille royale Ankhesenamon .................................... 46, 47 Arsinoé II Philadelphe .............................. 154 Méritamon ............................................... 121 Néfertiti ... 26, 85, 87, 88, 125, 213, 214, 216,

235 Pentaour .............................................. 76, 77 Sathathoriounet ....................................... 253 Tiy ........................................................ 12, 77

Fausse porte .............................. 29, 82, 83, 132 Figurine . 12, 101, 103, 104, 115, 154, 156, 175 Fleurs ....................................................... 12, 40 Flyovers ......................................... 45, 107, 108 Fondations

Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) ... 13, 102, 135, 254, 256

Egyptian Heritage Rescue Foundation (EHRF) .................................................. 189

Fonds Fonds de développement culturel (CDF) 305 Nubian Antiquities Salvage Fund ............ 293 World Monuments Fund (WMF) ........ 87, 282

Fontaine . 34, 45, 118, 120, 188, 199, 238, 243, 244, 248, 255

Forteresses ............................................ 94, 117 Fort de Qâytbây ...................................... 226 Forteresse al-Yusrî ..................................... 94 Forteresse de Babylone ........................... 257

Fossile ......................................... 63, 64, 78, 79 Fouilles ..... 9, 10, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 22, 23, 25,

37, 42, 43, 46, 47, 54, 60, 70, 72, 73, 74, 78, 82, 83, 91, 92, 97, 98, 103, 104, 105, 117, 121, 122, 127, 129, 147, 149, 159, 160, 166, 167, 177, 179, 187, 192, 193, 201, 202, 207, 209, 212, 217, 223, 224, 225, 226, 230, 232, 240, 241, 242, 266, 279, 280, 283, 289, 297 Fouilles sous-marines ....................... 149, 226

Fresque ......................................................... 21

G

Gabal al-Silsila ................................. 13, 91, 133 Garnison ................................................ 34, 209 Gouvernorats 14, 17, 19, 75, 95, 117, 118, 133,

204, 217, 221, 229, 256, 273, 291 Gouvernorat d’Alexandrie ....................... 273 Gouvernorat d’al-Sharqiyya ..................... 221 Gouvernorat de la Nouvelle Vallée ......... 133 Gouvernorat de Marsa Matrûh ................ 113 Gouvernorat de Minyâ ............................... 82 Gouvernorat du Caire ................ 75, 108, 249

Grotte .................................................. 118, 141

I n d e x


Guerre ................................................. 200, 215

H

Harem ............................................................ 77 Hôtels

Hôtel Grand Continental ............... 74, 75, 76 Hôtel Shepheard ........................................ 74

Humidité 33, 118, 156, 189, 199, 221, 243, 254 Hyksôs ..................................................... 15, 52

I

Icône ........................ 21, 76, 227, 234, 258, 292 Îles

Chypre ............................................. 197, 242 Éléphantine ........................................ 23, 260

Incendie 74, 112, 192, 194, 195, 204, 205, 248, 249, 263, 277

Insectes ....................................................... 198 Scarabée .......................................... 125, 204

Instituts Institut du Monde Arabe (IMA) ........ 125, 153 Institut européen d’archéologie sous-marine

(IEASM) ........................................... 15, 152 Institut français d’archéologie orientale (Ifao)

...... 22, 23, 42, 43, 72, 211, 212, 223, 224, 226, 269

Nederlands-Vlaams Instituut in Cairo (NVIC) ............................................. 128, 229, 230

International Council of Museums (ICOM) . 220, 248, 271, 272

International Council on Monuments and Sites (Icomos) ................................................... 173

Internet ... 51, 95, 135, 142, 171, 173, 200, 241, 270

Islam ...................................... 20, 131, 137, 257 Ivoire ........................... 104, 137, 156, 210, 217 Iwân ............................. 188, 199, 238, 244, 254

J

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) ......................... 57, 58, 71, 92, 93, 277

Jardins ....................... 11, 35, 97, 110, 203, 226 Parc al-Azhar ............................................ 255

Jarre 31, 89, 104, 122, 156, 208, 222, 280, 281, 284

Jésus ........................................................ 21, 24 Journée mondiale du patrimoine ................ 176 Juif 87, 137, 170, 188, 190, 247, 248, 268, 281,

282

K

Ka ................................................................ 124 Khôl ............................................................. 137 Kom-s

Kom al-Hîtân ........................................ 12, 13 Kom al-Rasras ...................................... 90, 91 Kom al-Shuqâfa ..................... 10, 41, 42, 293 Kom Bahîg ....................................... 225, 226 Kom Ûshîm ...................... 116, 269, 296, 300

Kuttâb-s ............................................... 248, 249

L

Lacs ....................................................... 66, 225 Lac Manzala ............................................... 53

Lampe ....................... 28, 41, 89, 137, 179, 222 Le Caire historique . 32, 33, 34, 68, 69, 70, 107,

118, 119, 135, 138, 176, 179, 182, 188, 189, 191, 198, 199, 219, 245, 246, 254, 255, 257, 294

Le Caire khédivial .... 74, 76, 106, 107, 112, 219 Léontopolis .................................................. 125 Ligue arabe ................................................. 284 Liste du patrimoine ... 16, 32, 94, 171, 247, 256 Loculi ............................................................. 40 Logo du GEM .............. 263, 264, 266, 269, 277 Lois

Loi 117/1983 ...... 18, 147, 148, 171, 218, 236

M

Madrasa-s ....... 34, 35, 119, 120, 135, 188, 189, 199, 238, 239

Magie .......................................... 115, 149, 150 Maladies

Cancer ............................................... 45, 283 Leucémie ................................................. 283 Paludisme ........................................ 146, 155 Symptômes de Marfan ............................ 146 Variole ........................................................ 27

Malédiction des pharaons ................... 100, 235 Mammifères ....... 63, 79, 81, 123, 137, 168, 267

Addax ...................................................... 267 Âne .......................................................... 267 Babouin ................................................... 281 Chacal .............................................. 162, 281 Chat ..................... 23, 43, 121, 122, 123, 259 Cheval .................................................. 21, 81 Éléphant ..................................................... 63 Girafe ....................................................... 267 Hippopotame .......................................... 217 Léopard ................................................... 156

I n d e x


Lion ............................................ 11, 160, 217 Mouton .................................... 115, 185, 267 Panthère .................................................. 162 Singe .................................. 23, 43, 47, 81, 82 Vache ....................................................... 166

Manuscrit .... 16, 19, 20, 21, 30, 34, 42, 89, 218, 258

Maq‘ad Mâmî al-Sayfî .................................... 69 Mashrabiyya ................................ 119, 238, 243 Masques ... 38, 65, 76, 101, 142, 143, 148, 175,

183, 240, 254, 260, 274, 284 Mastabas ....................................................... 81 Matériaux de construction

Argile ................................................... 14, 31 Béton ............................................. 54, 76, 97 Bois ... 14, 16, 35, 42, 57, 59, 73, 89, 93, 101,

112, 119, 128, 129, 137, 139, 140, 143, 156, 162, 165, 170, 173, 174, 175, 181, 183, 188, 189, 198, 199, 204, 210, 217, 230, 238, 239, 243, 245, 248, 249, 252, 256, 260, 282, 284 Ébène ................................................... 156

Brique ............................................ 15, 30, 31 Brique crue .................... 9, 15, 30, 37, 62, 81 Ciment ....................................................... 45 Gypse ...................................................... 128 Plâtre ............................................ 31, 60, 260 Sable ........................................................ 117

Mausolées ............................... 13, 34, 112, 119 Mausolée Zayn al-‘Âbidîn ........................ 112

Médecine .............................................. 98, 201 Mers

Mer Méditerranée ..... 30, 31, 58, 63, 79, 114, 135, 142, 150, 151, 272, 280 Alexandrie ....... 15, 29, 30, 32, 87, 94, 117,

118, 132, 149, 157, 187, 212, 225, 226, 233, 234, 271, 272, 273, 282, 289, 292, 293, 294, 295, 298, 299, 300, 301, 303, 304, 306

Marsa Matrûh ...... 113, 114, 117, 118, 217, 296, 304

Mer Rouge ...... 37, 49, 50, 86, 212, 223, 267, 294, 304 Halâyyib ........................................... 49, 50 Hurghada ....................................... 52, 228 Marsa ‘Alam ......................................... 169 Râs Sidr .................................................. 86 Sharm al-Shaykh ................................... 198

Métaux .......... 69, 119, 184, 189, 195, 199, 282 Argent .................. 21, 75, 123, 149, 156, 210

Bronze ..... 104, 123, 143, 153, 179, 228, 235, 236

Cuivre ........ 37, 112, 122, 137, 210, 224, 282 Fer .................. 35, 44, 45, 49, 56, 68, 97, 237 Or .... 16, 21, 38, 46, 49, 56, 67, 85, 100, 101,

112, 123, 156, 161, 164, 179, 183, 200, 210, 212, 213, 214, 229, 240, 253, 274, 279, 280

Plomb ........................................................ 16 Mihrâb ................................. 119, 137, 182, 238 Minaret .......... 34, 119, 120, 209, 247, 255, 271 Minbar 179, 180, 181, 182, 184, 188, 189, 192,

199 Mine d’or ..................................................... 224 Ministères

Ministère de l’Archéologie . 9, 10, 11, 13, 17, 18, 20, 22, 26, 27, 29, 36, 38, 39, 41, 42, 43, 49, 50, 51, 55, 58, 69, 70, 71, 73, 75, 76, 80, 81, 85, 86, 88, 89, 91, 92, 93, 94, 100, 102, 105, 112, 113, 116, 117, 118, 119, 124, 136, 141, 142, 145, 146, 147, 149, 150, 156, 158, 160, 161, 163, 166, 168, 169, 171, 176, 179, 180, 181, 182, 184, 185, 186, 187, 188, 190, 192, 194, 195, 197, 198, 199, 200, 201, 202, 206, 218, 220, 226, 229, 232, 235, 236, 237, 241, 242, 243, 244, 246, 247, 248, 249, 250, 254, 255, 256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 261, 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 270, 272, 273, 276, 277, 278, 279, 281, 282, 284

Ministère de la Culture ............................ 201 Ministère des Affaires étrangères ............ 260 Ministère des Waqfs ....... 180, 181, 190, 191,

247, 249 Ministère du Tourisme .. 80, 85, 86, 163, 253,

258, 261 Miroir ............................................................. 42 Mobilier ................................................. 43, 230 Moine ................................................ 30, 31, 86 Moïse ................................................. 21, 85, 86 Momies ... 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 27, 28, 43, 46, 47,

48, 73, 76, 77, 88, 94, 95, 96, 102, 104, 115, 116, 123, 142, 143, 145, 146, 147, 155, 156, 168, 169, 170, 175, 179, 183, 190, 195, 200, 205, 217, 260, 283, 284 The 'screaming mummy' ..................... 76, 78

Momification ................................. 77, 116, 145 Monastères 16, 20, 21, 30, 31, 32, 86, 224, 294

Monastère de Ghazâla ................... 30, 31, 32 Monastère de Qasr al-Wizz ........................ 30

I n d e x


Monastère de Saint Ménas .............. 176, 224 Monastère de Sainte-Catherine .... 16, 20, 21,

176 Monnaie ... 16, 18, 41, 122, 123, 134, 160, 177,

178, 179, 187, 204, 219, 220, 221, 224, 228, 232, 236, 242, 272, 283

Mortier ......................................................... 282 Mosaïques ................. 19, 20, 21, 144, 226, 233

Mosaïque de la Transfiguration ........... 19, 20 Mosquées . 34, 35, 62, 118, 119, 120, 179, 180,

181, 184, 188, 189, 198, 199, 238, 239, 242, 243, 244, 245, 247, 254, 255, 256 Mosquée Abû Bakr Muzhir ..... 180, 181, 182,

184, 188, 189, 198, 199 Mosquée Ahmad Ibn Tûlûn ............. 239, 246 Mosquée Ahmad Kuhya .................. 245, 246 Mosquée al-Azhar ............................ 118, 191 Mosquée al-Mahallî ......................... 243, 244 Mosquée al-Rifâ‘î ............. 181, 184, 190, 233 Mosquée al-Sayyida Ruqayya .................. 191 Mosquée al-Tanbaghâ al-Mârdânî .. 254, 255,

256 Mosquée al-Tayyib .................................. 247 Mosquée Qânîbây al-Rammâh ................ 190 Mosquée Sarghatmish ..................... 238, 239 Mosquée Zaghlûl ............. 242, 243, 244, 245

Moulins ........................................................ 256 Moulin d’Idku ........................................... 256

Murailles ........................................................ 15 Musées

Aga Khan Museum .................................. 135 Ägyptisches Museum und

Papyrussammlung Berlin-Charlottenburg ............................................................. 235

Australian Museum .................................. 265 Benaki Museum ....................................... 136 British Museum ..... 53, 56, 68, 115, 123, 153,

186, 202, 227, 231, 234, 235, 236, 263 Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) 11, 17, 19, 38,

41, 44, 45, 48, 55, 56, 57, 60, 61, 65, 67, 71, 76, 92, 93, 100, 138, 140, 157, 162, 165, 166, 170, 174, 192, 194, 195, 196, 204, 205, 206, 207, 213, 250, 251, 252, 261, 263, 264, 265, 268, 274, 285, 299, 301, 302

Grimaldi Forum Monaco .................. 252, 254 Manchester Museum ................................. 95 Musée archéologique d’al-‘Arîsh ............. 221 Musée archéologique d’Hurghada .......... 228 Musée archéologique d’Ismâ‘îliyya ......... 299

Musée archéologique de la Bibliotheca Alexandrina .......................... 132, 299, 302

Musée archéologique de la Nouvelle Vallée ............................................................. 301

Musée archéologique de Louqsor .... 59, 165, 166, 174, 175, 274

Musée archéologique de Mallawî ... 221, 230, 231, 299

Musée archéologique de Marsa Matrûh . 113, 114, 117

Musée archéologique de Rosette ........... 301 Musée archéologique de Sharm al-Shaykh

............................................................. 198 Musée archéologique de Suez ........ 117, 126 Musée archéologique de Suhâg ... 27, 88, 89,

90, 300 Musée Atonien ................................ 250, 299 Musée Copte ......... 24, 25, 26, 120, 257, 300 Musée d’Art islamique ...... 19, 21, 88, 90, 94,

136, 190, 195, 221, 222, 300 Musée de Kom Ûshîm ............................. 300 Musée de la Barque de Chéops ........ 57, 300 Musée de la Marine ......................... 149, 153 Musée de la Momification ....................... 273 Musée de la Nubie .................................. 300 Musée de Louqsor ........................... 166, 221 Musée de Plein Airs .... 41, 42, 54, 59, 97, 99,

121, 175, 269 Musée de plein air de Matariyya ...... 96, 99

Musée de Tell Basta ................ 122, 124, 221 Musée des Bijoux royaux ......................... 273 Musée des Textiles égyptiens88, 89, 90, 300 Musée du Louvre ...... 53, 100, 127, 136, 164,

252, 263, 271 Musée Égyptien .. 11, 17, 19, 21, 38, 78, 117,

125, 129, 149, 187, 205, 206, 207, 231, 254, 265, 285, 293, 299, 300, 301, 302

Musée Erwin ROMMEL .............................. 301 Musée GAYER-ANDERSON .......... 209, 239, 301 Musée géologique .................................... 64 Musée gréco-romain ...... 10, 41, 58, 59, 149,

153, 158, 226, 236, 269, 273, 282 Musée Imhotep ....................................... 121 Musée militaire ........ 206, 214, 215, 222, 274 Musée national d’Alexandrie .. 114, 116, 118,

149, 158, 273, 300, 301 Musée national de la Civilisation égyptienne

(NMEC) 19, 22, 38, 72, 127, 179, 181, 184, 188, 190, 198, 268, 269, 276, 300

Musée Rietberg ....................................... 153

I n d e x


Museo Egizio di Torino .............................. 77 Nicholson Museum .................................. 145 Saint Louis Art Museum (SLAM) ....... 149, 151 The Field Museum of Chicago .......... 63, 102 The Metropolitan Museum of Art ............ 140 Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) .......... 136

Muséologie ...... 38, 72, 92, 117, 220, 222, 273, 288, 296, 298

Musique ........................... 69, 82, 154, 155, 245 Instruments de musique

Trompette .................................... 156, 215

N

Naos .................................................... 134, 153 National Geographic Society ................ 57, 214 National Organisation for Urban Harmony

(NOUH) .................. 61, 74, 75, 108, 219, 305 Natron ........................................................... 77 Navire ...................................................... 15, 16 Nécropoles ... 11, 13, 14, 15, 22, 53, 54, 73, 80,

84, 105, 116, 154, 207, 229, 230, 231, 281 Nécropole al-Muzawwaqa ....................... 116 Nécropole d’Abûsîr ................................... 73 Nécropole de Saqqâra .............................. 73

Niche ..................................... 83, 119, 137, 182 Nil ... 31, 39, 44, 60, 83, 89, 105, 106, 112, 122,

130, 134, 151, 153, 154, 175, 194, 208, 223, 232, 243, 259, 267, 268, 300

Noms de lieux Algérie ....................................................... 79 Allemagne .... 18, 72, 82, 128, 136, 215, 263,

266, 285 Berlin ........................................ 53, 82, 235 Mainz ............................................ 128, 129 Stuttgart ............................................... 263

Arabie saoudite ................. 60, 109, 118, 220 La Mecque ..................................... 89, 119

Australie ........................... 102, 161, 200, 265 Sydney ................................. 102, 145, 265

Belgique ................ 58, 85, 92, 128, 148, 229 Bruxelles ............................................... 212

Brésil .................................................. 85, 235 Canada .... 102, 135, 137, 147, 157, 163, 253

Toronto ........................ 135, 136, 137, 156 Chilie .......................................................... 85 Chine ................................. 90, 248, 270, 271

Hebei ................................................... 270 Chypre

Nicosie ................................................. 197 Confédération suisse ................. 58, 215, 269

Zurich ................................................... 153

Danemark ........................................ 136, 215 Égypte

Alexandrie ... 15, 28, 29, 30, 32, 41, 42, 53, 58, 59, 87, 91, 94, 114, 116, 117, 118, 123, 132, 141, 149, 151, 153, 154, 157, 177, 178, 187, 202, 212, 225, 226, 233, 234, 236, 241, 248, 258, 269, 271, 272, 273, 280, 281, 282, 289, 292, 293, 294, 295, 298, 299, 300, 301, 303, 304, 306 Abû Mînâ .................................. 176, 224 Abûqîr ......................... 16, 151, 153, 280 al-Shallâlât ........................................ 226 al-Wardiyân ................................... 10, 32 Burg al-‘Arab .................... 219, 220, 225 Héraklion .................. 150, 151, 153, 163 Kom al-Shuqâfa .............. 10, 41, 42, 293 Masrah al-‘Abd ................................... 29 Taposiris Magna177, 178, 212, 224, 225

Delta .. 52, 54, 59, 123, 124, 157, 158, 242, 258, 289, 291, 295, 296, 298 al-Buhayra 256, 283, 287, 291, 292, 296,

297, 304 Idku ............................................... 256 Rosette . 178, 242, 243, 244, 245, 269,

288, 294, 301 Wâdî al-Natrûn ...... 258, 259, 283, 294

al-Daqahliyya .................... 289, 291, 297 al-Gharbiyya .... 228, 229, 290, 292, 293,

294, 304 Samannûd ..................................... 258

al-Ismâ‘îliyya ............... 15, 106, 299, 305 al-Mansûra .................... 63, 78, 123, 303 al-Munûfiyya ..... 165, 289, 295, 299, 304

Qwisnâ .......................................... 165 al-Qalyûbiyya ............ 159, 290, 295, 304 al-Sharqiyya55, 121, 122, 124, 221, 296,

304 Qantîr .................................. 52, 53, 54 Tanis ....... 38, 52, 53, 54, 55, 207, 212,

228, 229, 274 Tell Basta ..... 121, 122, 123, 124, 221,

258, 259, 269 al-Zaqâzîq 121, 123, 124, 201, 258, 259,

302 Damiette ................... 201, 288, 289, 297 Kafr al-Shaykh . 9, 10, 291, 297, 298, 304

Tell al-Farâ‘în ....................... 9, 10, 298 Gîza . 14, 17, 29, 35, 36, 38, 39, 40, 41, 44,

45, 48, 55, 56, 57, 60, 61, 67, 71, 72, 73, 76, 80, 81, 83, 84, 91, 92, 93, 114,

I n d e x


137, 162, 169, 170, 174, 176, 192, 194, 196, 200, 204, 205, 207, 223, 250, 251, 260, 261, 262, 263, 266, 268, 270, 274, 275, 276, 277, 287, 289, 290, 293, 294, 296, 298, 304 Abû Rawwâsh ..................................... 72 Abûsîr ..................................... 14, 15, 73 al-Lisht .............................................. 295 Dahshûr ........ 19, 60, 176, 282, 295, 299 Memphis ..... 15, 44, 67, 68, 98, 176, 259 Mît Rahîna ....... 45, 56, 68, 125, 288, 292 Nazlat al-Sammân ............................... 40 Saqqâra 73, 82, 121, 201, 207, 209, 297

Haute-Égypte ...... 24, 26, 37, 91, 173, 178, 185, 250, 258, 275 Aswân 13, 19, 23, 24, 25, 36, 37, 39, 44,

46, 51, 68, 70, 90, 91, 99, 131, 133, 134, 185, 186, 194, 240, 260, 267, 268, 275, 287, 288, 289, 300, 302, 304 Abû Simbil . 48, 51, 99, 132, 176, 240,

260, 289, 292 Bîr Umm Tînîdbâ ................... 267, 268 Gabal al-Silsila ................... 13, 91, 133 Idfû ..... 36, 37, 38, 39, 48, 50, 70, 132,

134, 260, 267, 268, 298 Kalâbsha ............................... 132, 133 Kom al-Rasras ........................... 90, 91 Kum Umbû ..... 14, 36, 37, 38, 39, 185,

194, 212 Philae .............. 50, 176, 178, 260, 261 Qubbat al-Hawâ .............................. 13

Asyût .... 24, 95, 172, 258, 259, 289, 293, 294, 295, 305

Louqsor .... 11, 12, 17, 19, 22, 26, 42, 46, 47, 52, 55, 59, 61, 74, 85, 91, 96, 98, 115, 131, 132, 146, 154, 162, 164, 165, 166, 169, 171, 173, 174, 175, 176, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187, 202, 204, 213, 221, 226, 260, 268, 273, 274, 275, 278, 280, 281, 288, 297, 303, 304 al-‘Asâsîf ........................................ 281 al-Dayr al-Baharî .............. 77, 132, 133 al-Kâb .................................... 267, 268 al-Qurna ............................ 61, 62, 289 al-Târif ............................................. 62 Dayr al-Madîna ........ 22, 23, 42, 43, 44 Dhirâ‘ Abû al-Nagâ ... 11, 12, 175, 273 Isnâ .................................. 74, 277, 278

al-Gabalayn ............................... 115 Karnak 48, 50, 59, 175, 176, 183, 185,

204, 208, 223, 260, 261, 273, 287, 289, 296, 297

Kom al-Hîtân ............................. 12, 13 Thèbes .................... 12, 133, 176, 208 Vallée des Singes ...................... 46, 47

Nubie . 24, 25, 30, 31, 32, 176, 194, 240, 287, 293, 300 Qasr al-Wizz .................................... 30

Qinâ ..... 17, 91, 131, 132, 240, 247, 289, 290, 292, 295, 298, 304 Dandara .......................... 17, 132, 178 Qûs ....................................... 171, 247

Le Caire . 11, 17, 19, 30, 31, 42, 65, 74, 75, 76, 92, 118, 120, 130, 137, 149, 159, 172, 184, 186, 187, 209, 216, 218, 222, 231, 233, 238, 254, 266, 279, 285, 287, 288, 289, 290, 291, 292, 294, 295, 296, 302, 303, 304, 305 al-Darb al-Ahmar ..... 254, 255, 256, 288,

298 al-Fustât ..... 72, 127, 198, 250, 288, 292,

298 al-Gamâliyya . 69, 70, 188, 198, 222, 294 al-Khalîfa ........................... 222, 246, 290 Bâb al-Khalq ....................... 88, 136, 195 Bûlâq ................................................ 187 Darb al-Labbâna ............... 32, 33, 34, 35 Héliopolis . 11, 96, 97, 98, 138, 163, 166,

167, 268, 269 Hilwân ............................... 201, 269, 303 Imbâba ............................................... 39 Ma‘âdî ............................................... 259 Matariyya ... 11, 96, 97, 98, 99, 138, 166,

167, 168, 192, 194, 259, 279, 288, 292, 300 Sûq al-Khamîs ................... 11, 99, 166

Sayyida Zaynab 112, 113, 209, 222, 238, 239, 290

Shubrâ .............................................. 290 Vieux-Caire . 26, 257, 259, 295, 297, 298

Marsa Matrûh al-‘Alamayn ..................... 40, 41, 66, 118 Mârînâ al-‘Alamayn ............................. 66 Umm al-Rakham ............................... 117

Moyenne-Égypte ................... 14, 290, 291 Banî Swayf ................................ 302, 304

Ihnâsyâ al-Madîna (Hérakléopolis Magna) ...................................... 159

I n d e x


Fayyûm ...... 65, 116, 287, 288, 292, 297, 302, 303, 305 Kom Ûshîm ............ 116, 269, 296, 300

Minyâ ..... 14, 19, 82, 105, 127, 204, 217, 221, 229, 236, 237, 250, 258, 259, 268, 289, 291, 293, 302, 305 al-Amarna ...................... 236, 237, 288 al-Ashmûnayn ....................... 103, 129 al-Bahnasâ ............................. 258, 297 Banî Hasan ...................................... 82 Banî Mazâr .................................... 204 Dayr al-Barshâ ...... 105, 127, 128, 129,

229, 230, 231, 232 Mallawî ... 14, 217, 221, 229, 230, 231,

287, 299 Tûna al-Gabal .... 14, 19, 103, 105, 229

Suhâg 27, 88, 89, 90, 91, 290, 297, 300, 302, 304, 306 Abîdus ............................. 90, 197, 290 Akhmîm ............................. 27, 90, 131

Nouvelle Vallée al-Dâkhla ........................... 116, 283, 293

Port Sa‘îd .............................. 123, 187, 202 Sinaï ..... 16, 19, 20, 21, 37, 49, 85, 86, 122,

157, 158, 176, 208, 221, 223, 224, 227, 256, 258, 259, 287, 292, 294, 296, 299 Nord-Sinaï ........................................ 208

al-Qantara Est ............................... 208 Tell al-Maskhûta .............................. 15 Tell Habwa .................................... 208 Wâdî al-Tumaylât ............................ 15

Sud-Sinaï ...... 19, 21, 37, 49, 86, 91, 292, 294, 296 Halâyyib .................................... 49, 50 Râs Sidr ........................................... 86 Sainte-Catherine ............................. 16 Sirâbît al-Khâdim ................... 223, 296

Suez . 85, 86, 106, 114, 117, 118, 125, 126, 127, 293, 294, 299, 300 ‘Ayn al-Sukhna .................. 169, 223, 224 Wâdî al-Garf ............................. 212, 223

Émirats arabes unis ...................... 48, 58, 216 Abu Dhabi ............................................ 100

Espagne ................................... 191, 215, 242 Madrid .................................................. 285

États-Unis .. 17, 18, 72, 76, 99, 101, 102, 140, 146, 147, 148, 149, 150, 152, 153, 156, 157, 161, 163, 164, 168, 169, 195, 200, 242, 253, 263, 273 Atlanta .................................................... 96

Boston .......................................... 153, 231 California ........ 99, 101, 102, 154, 155, 161 Chicago .................................... 36, 63, 102 Los Angeles ... 99, 100, 101, 103, 155, 156,

157, 161 Manhattan ...................... 17, 144, 146, 169 Missouri ................................ 149, 150, 163 New York ....... 18, 127, 140, 142, 144, 146,

168, 169 Philadelphia .......................................... 102 Saint-Louis ............ 102, 151, 152, 153, 156 Washington .......................................... 102

France ..... 18, 22, 51, 72, 106, 125, 127, 212, 213, 215, 223, 252, 254, 259, 260, 264, 269, 271 Marseille ............................................... 127 Paris . 53, 70, 100, 102, 106, 112, 125, 136,

152, 153, 164, 202, 248, 260, 263, 271, 273

Grèce ................................................. 85, 242 Athènes ................................................ 136

Iran ................................... 131, 164, 210, 211 Israël .......................................................... 87 Italie ...... 56, 58, 68, 106, 136, 200, 215, 232,

233, 234, 241, 242, 272, 283, 285 Florence ............................................... 231 Milan .................................................... 272 Naples .................... 27, 232, 240, 241, 285 Rome . 19, 53, 97, 232, 240, 241, 258, 283,

284 Salerno ................................. 240, 283, 284 Turin ................... 26, 77, 85, 127, 213, 214

Japon ...... 19, 57, 72, 92, 161, 163, 200, 215, 253, 272, 277 Kyoto .................................................... 272 Osaka ........................................... 102, 161 Tokyo ................................................... 102

Jordanie ..................................................... 58 Kosovo ..................................................... 278 Koweït .............................. 139, 140, 141, 195 Liban ........................................................ 195 Libye ........................................................ 113 Malte ................................................ 114, 115 Maroc ............................................... 131, 248 Mexique ..................................................... 58

Mexico .................................................. 163 Norvège ................................................... 271 Palestine .......................................... 135, 259 Pays-Bas ............................................... 64, 65 Pérou ....................................................... 242

I n d e x


Portugal ................................................... 235 Principauté de Monaco ............ 252, 253, 254 République de l’Équateur ........................ 248 République de Macédoine ...................... 278 République dominicaine .................. 177, 179 République Tchèque ............................... 271

Prague .......................................... 248, 271 Royaume-Uni ............. 72, 146, 180, 227, 263

Londres53, 56, 68, 97, 102, 115, 123, 136, 152, 153, 202, 227, 234, 259, 263

Russie Moscou ................................................ 271

Singapour .................................................. 72 Soudan ............................... 25, 30, 32, 50, 95 Syrie ................................... 31, 131, 135, 240 Tunisie ....................................... 79, 135, 248 Turquie ............................................ 131, 211

Istanbul ................................................... 53 Noms de personnes

‘Abd al-‘Azîz (Muhammad) .. 33, 69, 118, 188, 199, 245, 254, 274, 294

‘Abd al-Basîr (al-Husayn) .......... 132, 289, 299 ‘Abd al-Gawwâd (Sha‘bân) . 17, 58, 141, 146,

168, 197, 232, 259, 297 ‘Abd al-Latîf (Muhammad) 20, 112, 120, 170,

190, 258 ‘Abd al-Maqsûd (Muhammad) .... 52, 66, 208,

294 ‘Abd al-Mun‘im (Ayman) .......................... 304 ‘Abd al-Nâsir (Gamâl) .... 27, 45, 68, 235, 290 ‘Abd al-Râziq (Sabâh) . 43, 125, 128, 187, 301 ‘Awad (Muhammad) ......................... 240, 293 ‘Azab (Khâlid) ........................... 248, 271, 300 ‘Ukâsha (Ashraf) ....................................... 290 Abû al-‘Azm (Hânî) ................................... 291 Abû al-‘Ilâ (Wa‘d) ..................... 197, 228, 298 Abû al-Khayr (Usâma) ........................ 60, 302 al-‘Agîzî (‘Ulâ) ........................... 207, 208, 265 al-‘Ashmâwî (Ayman) .... 9, 29, 37, 41, 86, 91,

98, 116, 160, 166, 185, 194, 217, 290 al-‘Inânî (Khâlid) .... 18, 19, 20, 22, 33, 35, 42,

48, 49, 55, 58, 60, 65, 67, 69, 82, 83, 85, 88, 90, 92, 93, 97, 101, 103, 120, 121, 124, 128, 142, 147, 148, 150, 151, 156, 157, 159, 169, 170, 171, 173, 174, 175, 176, 177, 183, 186, 197, 204, 205, 206, 207, 214, 215, 216, 242, 243, 257, 261, 262, 268, 269, 275, 276, 277, 284, 285, 286, 292

al-Damâtî (Mamdûh) . 85, 163, 193, 194, 214, 303

al-Kahlâwî (Muhammad) .......................... 305 al-Kasabânî (Mukhtâr) ...................... 295, 303 al-Laythî (Hishâm) ..................... 187, 202, 291 al-Mallâkh (Kamâl) ...................................... 57 al-Nabrâwî (Ra’fat) ............................ 303, 306 al-Nimr (Ahmad) ................................ 20, 288 al-Râwî (Ahmad) ....................................... 195 al-Sâdât (Anwar) ............................... 107, 235 al-Saghîr (Mustafa) ............. 59, 175, 183, 296 al-Shammâ‘ (Bassâm) ... 58, 79, 102, 105, 141 al-Shâzlî (Yâsmîn) ..................................... 299 al-Simistâwî (Gamâl) ................................. 291 al-Sîsî (‘Abd al-Fattâh) ..... 100, 102, 113, 117,

118, 247, 250, 285 al-Tîbî (‘Amr) ...................................... 21, 288 Amîn (Mustafa) ........... 88, 136, 141, 190, 296 Badîr (Muhammad) .................................. 294 Bavay (Laurent) .................. 43, 211, 223, 224 Bonaparte (Napoléon)53, 122, 126, 151, 153 Bruyère (Bernard) ................................. 22, 43 Carter (Howard) ....................................... 147 Caviglia (Giovanni Battista) .................. 56, 68 Champollion (Jean-François) ........... 110, 233 Daressy (Georges) ............................ 129, 230 DARNIELEN (John Coleman) .............. 267, 268 De Lesseps (Ferdinand) ........................... 126 Dodson (Aidan M.) ..................................... 88 Fathî (Hasan) ........................................ 61, 62 Friedman (Renee) ..................................... 115 Gâballâh (Gâballâh ‘Alî) ........................... 163 Galien (Claude) .......................................... 16 Goddio (Franck) ............................... 149, 152 Habashî (Labîb) ........................................ 123 Hammâm (Hamdî) ............ 172, 218, 236, 291 Hanna (Monica) .................. 74, 100, 103, 148 Hawwâs (Zâhî) . 26, 35, 36, 39, 45, 46, 47, 60,

74, 75, 76, 77, 82, 84, 100, 101, 103, 114, 115, 148, 157, 161, 164, 200, 201, 205, 216, 234, 235, 264, 271, 278, 284, 285

Haykal (Fâyza) .......................... 205, 215, 302 Hérodote ................................................. 122 Hilmî (al-Sa‘îd) .......................................... 289 Hippocrate ........................................... 16, 20 Hollande (François) .................................. 125 Husnî (Fârûq) ................................ 45, 68, 220 Ibrâhîm (Muhammad) ............................... 294 Ikram (Salima) ............................................. 95 Kampp (Frederica) ..................................... 12

I n d e x


Khidr (Nâdya) ........................... 157, 158, 296 Lam‘î (Sâlih) .............................................. 306 Lasciac (Antonio) ...................................... 233 Mahfûz (Nagîb) ........................................ 235 Mariette (Auguste) ..................... 53, 187, 202 Martinez (Kathleen) .................................. 177 Mitwallî (Muhammad) ...................... 281, 295 Moller (Nadine) .......................................... 37 Mubârak (Husnî) ................................. 65, 252 Muhyî (Ashraf) ............................ 38, 270, 290 Mustafa (Gamâl) ...... 237, 238, 243, 247, 248,

277, 279, 291 Nenna (Marie-Dominique) ............... 225, 226 Obluski (Artur) ...................................... 30, 31 Peng (Shih-Fu) .......................................... 277 Petrie (William Matthew Flinders) . 47, 53, 94,

95, 187, 202 Pischikova (Elena) ............................ 280, 281 Plutarque ................................................. 178 Qutb (‘Abd al-Hamîd) .............................. 297 Radwân (‘Alî) ............................................ 305 Raue (Dietrich) ......................................... 167 Rayhân (‘Abd al-Rahîm) .................... 141, 287 Redon (Bérangère) ................................... 224 Reeves (Nicholas) ............................... 85, 214 Reisner (George) ........ 83, 129, 187, 202, 230 Rommel (Erwin) ................................ 118, 301 Rushdî (Mustafa) ...................................... 296 Sa‘d (Khâlid) ............................................... 49 Sa‘îd (Mahrûs) .................................. 293, 300 Salâh al-Dîn (Ilhâm) ..... 22, 38, 43, 76, 88, 92,

94, 102, 113, 117, 122, 124, 128, 136, 148, 149, 174, 228, 272, 300

Sâlih (Ahmad) ..................................... 96, 289 Sâlih (Fathî) .............................................. 305 Sâlih (Muhammad) ........................... 163, 169 Sourouzian (Hourig) ................................... 12 Spencer (Neal) ................................. 227, 234 Strabon .................................................... 178 Sunbul (Gharîb) .... 10, 16, 116, 198, 282, 291 Tallet (Pierre) ............................................ 223 Tawfîq (Târiq) ...... 17, 44, 56, 65, 68, 93, 101,

165, 196, 215, 251, 263, 274, 301 Thiers (Christophe) ................................... 225 Wazîrî (Mustafa) .... 28, 36, 37, 41, 46, 52, 53,

54, 55, 73, 82, 84, 86, 92, 103, 104, 137, 172, 174, 175, 182, 183, 184, 190, 195, 198, 204, 206, 214, 216, 222, 227, 236, 240, 247, 256, 265, 279, 280, 283, 284, 296

Wildung (Dietrich) .................................... 235 Wilkinson (Gardner) ................................. 122 Yoshimura (Sakuji) ...................................... 57 Zaydân (‘Isa) .. 57, 60, 93, 138, 166, 206, 215,

299 Ziegler (Christiane) ........................... 252, 253

O

Oasis al-Bahariyya ............................................. 200 al-Dâkhla ..... 63, 78, 116, 131, 133, 134, 224,

291, 297 al-Muzawwaqa ...................................... 116

al-Farâfra .................................................. 297 al-Khârga ......... 131, 133, 224, 289, 293, 294 Sîwa ................................. 160, 178, 217, 218

Obélisques ........................ 53, 97, 98, 252, 300 Obélisque de Sésostris Ier .......................... 96

Œ

Œil Oudjat ................................................... 197

O

Offrande ................................ 29, 134, 230, 231 Oiseaux ......................................... 73, 137, 238

Autruche .................................................. 156 Faucon ....... 37, 133, 140, 162, 166, 167, 281 Ibis ................................................... 132, 133 Oie ............................................................. 43

Organisations internationales Organisation des Nations unies (ONU) ... 270 United Nations Educational, Scientific and

Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) .... 16, 21, 61, 62, 68, 140, 173, 176, 191, 242, 248, 257, 270, 271, 273, 305

United States Agency for International Development (USAID) .......................... 273

Ossements ................................. 77, 78, 79, 145 Ostraca .............................................. 22, 23, 43 Ouchebti ....... 12, 101, 103, 104, 175, 183, 284

P

Pain ...................................................... 138, 230 Palais .. 70, 75, 77, 83, 130, 137, 170, 171, 187,

193, 212, 213, 216, 233, 268, 269, 278, 279, 290, 293, 299, 301, 302 Palais ‘Â’isha Fahmî ................................. 130 Palais ‘Âbidîn ........................................... 109 Palais al-Hikma ................................. 170, 171 Palais du baron Empain ........... 268, 269, 293 Palais Manyal ........................... 216, 299, 302

I n d e x


Palais Muhammad ‘Alî ..................... 285, 290 Palimpseste ............................................. 16, 20 Papyrus ........ 14, 53, 77, 82, 123, 162, 212, 223

Papyrus judiciaire ....................................... 77 Parlement .................................................... 286 Particuliers

Djéhouty .................................................... 14 Djéhoutyhotep ......................................... 231 Djehutinakht ............................................ 129 Hatiay ............................................... 208, 209 Imhotep ................................................... 121 Iwrkhy ....................................... 207, 208, 209 Karabasken ...................................... 280, 281 Khnum-Aa .................................................. 95 Khnum-Nakht ................................. 47, 94, 95 Nakht-Ankh .................................... 47, 94, 95 Nefer Theth ......................................... 39, 40 Ouserhat ............................ 12, 175, 182, 183 Pached ....................................................... 43 Sekhem-ankh-Ptah ........................... 142, 143 Sénedjem ................................. 22, 23, 42, 43 Touya ......................................... 38, 207, 275 Youya ......................................... 38, 207, 274 Yuppa .............................................. 208, 209

Peinture ......................... 88, 111, 130, 193, 281 Pèlerinage ............................................. 21, 258 Perle ............................................................ 272 Perruque ...................................................... 217 Pétition .................................................. 74, 100 Phares .................................................. 248, 272 Pierre de Rosette ......................................... 178 Pierres .... 15, 32, 33, 35, 52, 53, 65, 69, 70, 91,

104, 118, 119, 121, 123, 124, 133, 141, 160, 185, 193, 194, 224, 228, 244, 251, 252, 254, 267, 282 Calcaire ........................................ 11, 43, 230 Calcite ...................................................... 224 Cornaline ................................................. 267 Turquoise ................................. 117, 122, 224

Pilier Djed .................................................... 197 Places publiques

Place al-Rimâya .......................................... 45 Plateau de Gîza .. 35, 36, 38, 39, 44, 45, 50, 51,

56, 57, 65, 67, 71, 76, 80, 81, 84, 92, 93, 162, 169, 174, 192, 194, 196, 200, 223, 251, 261, 262, 268, 270, 274, 276, 298

Pluie ....................................................... 63, 198 Poissons ......................................................... 54 Polémique 11, 87, 88, 102, 147, 188, 199, 214,

263, 264

Polices ......... 139, 169, 237, 238, 240, 256, 260 Police du Tourisme et des Antiquités . 70, 74,

80, 81, 101, 137, 139, 237, 241, 304 Pollution .............................. 33, 45, 68, 69, 118 Ponts

Pont Qasr al-Nîl ....................................... 108 Porcelaine ............................................ 210, 284 Ports15, 16, 195, 196, 223, 236, 240, 241, 250,

289 Poterie .. 10, 12, 16, 37, 41, 193, 228, 231, 232,

242 Pount ............................................................. 37 Poutre .......................................................... 239 Presse

Ahram Online ... 9, 10, 17, 18, 26, 28, 29, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 46, 47, 49, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 64, 73, 84, 85, 86, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 103, 105, 113, 114, 115, 116, 124, 125, 128, 129, 160, 166, 167, 168, 169, 170, 177, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 192, 194, 195, 196, 205, 206, 209, 216, 218, 219, 229, 232, 236, 237, 238, 239, 247, 248, 249, 259, 260, 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 268, 269, 279, 280, 281, 283, 285

al-Ahrâm ... 10, 18, 26, 27, 29, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 47, 49, 55, 56, 58, 62, 64, 65, 81, 84, 85, 86, 88, 90, 92, 93, 99, 105, 113, 120, 121, 124, 129, 137, 139, 141, 145, 146, 150, 157, 159, 160, 165, 166, 168, 169, 172, 177, 179, 180, 181, 182, 184, 186, 187, 192, 196, 205, 207, 209, 216, 218, 220, 229, 232, 237, 238, 239, 240, 245, 246, 247, 249, 250, 256, 260, 262, 265, 266, 268, 271, 277, 278, 279, 280, 281, 282, 283, 285, 286

al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî . 10, 18, 26, 29, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 47, 49, 55, 56, 58, 62, 81, 84, 85, 88, 90, 92, 93, 99, 105, 113, 120, 121, 124, 129, 137, 139, 146, 150, 157, 159, 160, 166, 168, 169, 172, 179, 182, 184, 186, 187, 192, 196, 209, 216, 218, 220, 229, 232, 238, 239, 240, 245, 246, 247, 250, 256, 257, 260, 262, 265, 266, 268, 277, 278, 279, 281, 282, 285

Al-Ahram Hebdo ... 10, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 32, 35, 38, 44, 52, 55, 57, 65, 70, 73, 76, 80, 84, 96, 99, 105, 118, 120, 124, 127, 131, 134, 137, 149, 150, 157, 161, 187, 199, 205, 206, 209, 211, 216, 218, 220, 222,

I n d e x


226, 232, 234, 242, 245, 254, 265, 273 Al-Ahram Weekly .. 21, 22, 24, 33, 35, 36, 44,

45, 52, 55, 67, 68, 69, 70, 72, 76, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 84, 99, 100, 102, 106, 112, 119, 120, 122, 124, 136, 137, 139, 140, 141, 152, 157, 164, 176, 179, 189, 192, 199, 200, 201, 202, 204, 213, 216, 235, 241, 242, 245, 246, 254, 256, 258, 259, 274, 277

al-Akhbâr ................................................. 249 al-Dustûr .......................................... 226, 278 al-Fagr ................................ 65, 124, 149, 157 al-Masrî al-Yawm ... 10, 27, 29, 39, 40, 45, 49,

58, 59, 61, 65, 70, 73, 80, 81, 84, 86, 87, 88, 90, 92, 94, 99, 103, 105, 113, 114, 115, 116, 124, 137, 139, 141, 149, 150, 158, 159, 171, 176, 186, 187, 192, 194, 195, 197, 201, 204, 205, 207, 209, 216, 217, 218, 220, 228, 229, 232, 236, 238, 239, 240, 245, 247, 250, 256, 261, 265, 266, 268, 271, 277, 278, 279, 281, 282, 283, 285

al-Sharq al-Awsat ..................................... 213 al-Shurûq ... 61, 64, 79, 84, 94, 194, 196, 209 al-Tahrîr ..... 74, 184, 192, 204, 205, 209, 219,

232, 283 al-Wafd .......... 10, 27, 29, 45, 56, 58, 64, 199 al-Watan ..... 64, 84, 103, 148, 165, 232, 264,

266 al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘ ... 10, 11, 17, 22, 26, 27, 28,

29, 38, 39, 41, 42, 46, 47, 48, 55, 58, 61, 73, 78, 84, 85, 88, 90, 92, 93, 94, 99, 103, 105, 113, 114, 116, 124, 125, 129, 137, 139, 141, 142, 145, 146, 147, 149, 157, 159, 161, 166, 168, 171, 172, 182, 184, 187, 192, 196, 197, 198, 201, 206, 207, 216, 228, 229, 238, 239, 240, 246, 247, 250, 254, 257, 260, 265, 266, 268, 277, 278, 279, 281, 283, 285, 286

Egypt Independent ..... 10, 18, 27, 40, 45, 47, 48, 50, 55, 59, 64, 73, 78, 84, 85, 87, 88, 99, 103, 105, 115, 130, 137, 139, 142, 144, 145, 146, 147, 161, 165, 168, 169, 171, 172, 179, 183, 186, 194, 195, 207, 209, 216, 218, 220, 227, 236, 237, 242, 248, 250, 252, 260, 261, 271, 282, 285

Masrâwî .................................... 211, 213, 226 Sada al-Balad .. 10, 18, 26, 32, 35, 38, 39, 40,

41, 42, 45, 49, 55, 59, 61, 66, 73, 78, 85, 86, 87, 90, 92, 93, 94, 102, 113, 114, 115,

117, 121, 124, 125, 130, 137, 142, 144, 157, 158, 159, 161, 166, 168, 169, 170, 171, 172, 176, 179, 182, 184, 188, 197, 201, 205, 218, 219, 220, 222, 227, 228, 236, 239, 240, 242, 246, 247, 250, 252, 257, 259, 262, 265, 266, 268, 270, 274, 277, 278, 279, 281, 283, 285

Vetogate .................................................. 256 Watanî . 35, 41, 47, 56, 58, 65, 84, 87, 90, 99,

103, 105, 139, 151, 169, 170, 171, 176, 182, 186, 188, 192, 196, 197, 205, 209, 216, 218, 219, 220, 229, 242, 245, 246, 250, 257, 268, 279, 283

Prêtres ...... 14, 80, 83, 103, 104, 116, 137, 178, 193, 280 Djehuty-Irdy-Es ........................................ 104 Hersa-Essei .............................................. 103

Prêtresses Hetpet ...................................... 81, 82, 83, 84 Mer-Neith-it-es ........................................ 145

Projets Egyptian Mummy Project .......................... 77 Egyptian-American South ‘Asâsîf

Conservation Project (SACP) ........ 280, 281 Gîza Plateau Development Project .... 80, 276 Historic Cairo Rehabilitation Project (HCRP)

......... 33, 69, 119, 188, 189, 245, 254, 294 Puits ............................................... 73, 230, 231 Pylône ............ 15, 173, 174, 175, 183, 185, 225 Pyramides . 19, 35, 36, 50, 51, 65, 84, 114, 169,

212, 223, 250, 251, 253, 261, 264, 271, 282, 298 Pyramide de Chéops 57, 80, 81, 92, 93, 169,

170, 251 Pyramide de Chéphren .............................. 84 Pyramide de Snéfrou ............................... 282

Pyramidion .................................................. 134

Q

Qibla ............................ 119, 188, 199, 238, 244

R

Radars ............ 14, 26, 46, 84, 85, 142, 213, 214 Radar à pénétration de sol (Ground

Penetrating Radar) ................. 14, 213, 214 Radiations

Rayons laser ............................... 50, 142, 261 Rayons X .................................................. 220

Radiocarbone ........................................ 31, 140 Rasoir ............................................................. 43 Réaménagement ..... 81, 99, 124, 197, 216, 273

I n d e x


Reconstitution faciale .............................. 87, 88 Relique .................................................. 52, 251 Réplique archéologique . 22, 94, 149, 150, 170,

190, 191, 221, 237, 270, 271, 278 Reptiles

Cobra ....................................... 125, 132, 217 Crocodile ......................................... 208, 210 Dinosaures ................... 62, 63, 64, 78, 79, 80

Argentinosaurus ..................................... 63 Mansourasaurus shahinae ... 62, 63, 64, 78,

79 Serpent ...................................................... 34

Restauration ... 9, 10, 13, 16, 19, 20, 21, 27, 29, 30, 33, 34, 35, 57, 58, 60, 61, 62, 65, 69, 71, 72, 73, 75, 87, 91, 92, 93, 104, 109, 110, 112, 116, 118, 119, 120, 138, 139, 159, 166, 167, 168, 172, 173, 174, 176, 177, 182, 186, 188, 189, 190, 192, 198, 199, 206, 215, 218, 220, 223, 225, 226, 232, 238, 242, 243, 244, 245, 250, 252, 254, 256, 257, 261, 269, 273, 274, 276, 277, 278, 281, 282, 284, 287, 288, 289, 291, 293, 297, 298, 299, 300, 301, 302, 303

Restitution ............................................. 19, 197 Riwâq ................................... 119, 120, 238, 244 Roches

Albâtre ....... 12, 104, 154, 162, 194, 197, 231 Basalte ..................................................... 259 Granit .... 9, 10, 13, 27, 31, 44, 53, 55, 70, 97,

98, 138, 143, 151, 153, 167, 174, 217, 255, 261, 275

Marbre 31, 70, 112, 122, 137, 156, 181, 185, 186, 188, 194, 199, 238, 244, 254, 255, 256, 282

Porphyre .................................................. 194 Quartzite ................ 10, 13, 97, 125, 166, 167

S

Sabîl-kuttâb ................................. 239, 248, 249 Sabîl-kuttâb Umm Muhammad ‘Alî .......... 249

Sabîl-s ............................ 34, 188, 199, 248, 249 Sainte Famille ................ 26, 257, 258, 259, 279 Salle hypostyle .............................................. 15 Salles d’enchères

Christie’s Inc .................................... 142, 144 Sandale ................................................ 161, 251 Sarcophage .. 13, 14, 23, 41, 42, 43, 54, 73, 95,

98, 100, 101, 104, 127, 128, 129, 139, 140, 141, 145, 148, 150, 156, 162, 165, 175, 183, 190, 195, 232, 240, 242, 254, 259, 284

Sauvetage ............................................. 51, 226

Sceptre ............................................................ 9 Scorpion ...................................................... 125 Scribes ................................. 20, 23, 43, 84, 118 Sérapeum .................................................... 154 Socle .............................................................. 27 Son et lumière ..... 48, 50, 51, 52, 260, 261, 306 Souveraines

Cléopâtre ......... 148, 151, 153, 177, 178, 179 Cléopâtre VII .................................... 177, 179

Souverains Akhenaton ......... 85, 125, 133, 237, 250, 275 Alexandre le Grand .................. 177, 178, 225 Amenhotep Ier . 12, 13, 14, 22, 23, 27, 43, 46,

97, 170, 275 Amenhotep II ...... 12, 13, 14, 27, 46, 97, 170,

275 Amenhotep III .... 12, 13, 27, 46, 97, 170, 275 Antonin le Pieux ................................. 91, 217 Ay ......................................................... 46, 47 Chéops 53, 55, 57, 58, 71, 72, 80, 81, 83, 92,

93, 169, 170, 223, 293, 300 Chéphren ............................................. 81, 84 Darius Ier ................................................... 126 Djedkarê-Izezi ............................................ 37 Djoser ...................................................... 134 Domitien .................................................... 91 Hadrien ...................................................... 91 Horemheb ................................................ 133 Jules César ............................................... 151 Justinien ............................................... 20, 21 Marc Aurèle ............................. 185, 186, 194 Mérenptah ............................... 138, 139, 167 Merkurios ....................................... 30, 31, 32 Mykérinos .......................................... 81, 170 Nectanébo Ier ................................... 143, 167 Nectanébo II ............................................ 143 Osorkon II .................................. 54, 122, 124 Ounas ...................................................... 207 Pépi Ier .......................................... 53, 55, 123 Psammétique Ier . 9, 10, 11, 99, 166, 167, 168 Psousennès Ier ............................................ 54 Ptolémée Évergète Ier ........ 73, 154, 177, 229 Ptolémée Évergète II ............................... 229 Ptolémée IV Philopator ...................... 73, 229 Ptolémée V Épiphane .............................. 178 Ptolémée XI ............................................. 153 Ptolémée XII ............................................ 153 Ramsès Ier .. 11, 14, 15, 19, 23, 44, 45, 48, 49,

52, 53, 55, 56, 60, 67, 68, 70, 71, 76, 77, 93, 96, 97, 98, 99, 114, 117, 121, 123,

I n d e x


132, 138, 139, 167, 173, 174, 176, 193, 196, 197, 204, 207, 208, 209, 225, 228, 234, 235, 253, 261, 275

Ramsès II ... 11, 14, 15, 19, 23, 44, 45, 48, 49, 52, 53, 55, 56, 60, 67, 68, 70, 71, 76, 77, 93, 97, 98, 99, 114, 117, 121, 123, 132, 138, 139, 167, 173, 174, 176, 193, 196, 197, 204, 207, 208, 209, 225, 228, 234, 235, 253, 261, 275

Ramsès IV .................................................. 98 Sésostris Ier ............................... 126, 230, 231 Sésostris III ................................. 55, 126, 231 Séthi Ier ................................. 11, 97, 208, 209 Snéfrou ............................................ 282, 283 Souverains musulmans

‘Alî (Muhammad) . 32, 56, 68, 87, 120, 187, 219, 226, 248, 249, 256, 282, 285, 290, 295

al-Ayyûbî (al-Nâsir Salâh al-Dîn) ..... 51, 296 al-Ghûrî (Qunsûwa)............................... 120 al-Nâsir Muhammad ............. 239, 255, 256 Barqûq (al-Zâhir) ..................................... 34 Baybars al-Bunduqdârî (al-Zâhir) .......... 120 Bayezid Ier ............................................. 210 Ibn Tûlûn (Ahmad) ................................ 209 Katkhuda (‘Abd al-Rahmân) ................. 120 khédive Ismâ‘îl ........ 70, 106, 107, 109, 233 Qalâwwûn (al-Nâsir) ................. 34, 35, 239 Qâytbây (al-Ashraf Abû al-Nasr) .... 70, 141,

142, 188, 199, 226, 239, 272, 287, 298 Roi Fârûq Ier .................................. 195, 219 Sultan Hasan ........................................ 239

Taharqa .................................................... 185 Tanoutamon ............................................ 185 Thoutmosis Ier .................................... 12, 114 Thoutmosis II ....................... 14, 97, 225, 275 Thoutmosis III ...................... 14, 97, 225, 275 Thoutmosis IV ...................... 12, 97, 114, 118 Toutankhamon 26, 38, 46, 47, 54, 56, 65, 67,

71, 72, 84, 85, 96, 99, 100, 101, 102, 114, 118, 133, 146, 147, 148, 149, 151, 154, 155, 156, 157, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 170, 171, 172, 174, 201, 205, 206, 207, 213, 214, 215, 227, 251, 252, 253, 265, 266, 274, 275

Sphinx ..... 23, 41, 48, 53, 80, 81, 150, 153, 164, 167, 169, 170, 176, 270, 271

Statue . 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 19, 22, 27, 37, 41, 43, 44, 45, 49, 53, 54, 55, 56, 65, 67, 68, 70, 71, 83, 97, 98, 99, 101, 114, 117, 123, 124,

125, 127, 132, 133, 134, 142, 143, 150, 153, 154, 160, 162, 168, 174, 177, 183, 185, 193, 194, 208, 215, 227, 228, 231, 234, 235, 251, 259, 270

Statuette ....... 23, 103, 105, 122, 123, 125, 153, 156, 204, 217, 274, 278, 284

Stèles .... 36, 37, 43, 52, 54, 55, 61, 70, 98, 124, 126, 150, 153, 177, 178

Suie ................................................................ 17 Survey . 40, 46, 84, 85, 122, 167, 190, 213, 214,

216 Synagogues ........................................... 87, 282

Ben Ezra ................................................... 257 Eliyahu Hanavi ................... 87, 269, 281, 282

T

Table d’offrande .................... 83, 122, 134, 185 Tapis .................................................... 130, 131 Tatouage ..................................................... 115 Tell-s

Tell al-‘Amârna ......................... 236, 237, 288 Tell al-Dab‘a ......................................... 52, 54 Tell al-Farâ‘în ................................. 9, 10, 298 Tell al-Maskhûta ......................................... 15 Tell al-Miqdâm ......................................... 125 Tell al-Yahûdiyya ...................................... 298 Tell Basta 121, 122, 123, 124, 221, 258, 259,

269, 288 Tell Habwa ............................................... 208 Tell Idfû ................................................ 36, 37

Temples .... 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 23, 28, 36, 37, 38, 39, 41, 46, 50, 51, 53, 59, 67, 70, 87, 90, 91, 98, 99, 122, 123, 132, 133, 134, 138, 153, 160, 166, 167, 168, 171, 173, 176, 178, 179, 183, 184, 185, 186, 194, 202, 204, 208, 212, 217, 218, 225, 240, 260, 261, 272, 273, 287, 288, 293, 297 Osireion ................................................... 197 Temple d’Abû Simbil ................... 51, 99, 132 Temple d’Amenhotep III ............................ 12 Temple d’Hibis ................................ 133, 293 Temple d’Idfû .................................... 70, 134 Temple de Bouto ................................... 9, 10 Temple de Dandara ........................... 16, 132 Temple de Kalâbsha ................................ 133 Temple de Karnak 48, 50, 59, 175, 176, 183,

185, 204, 208, 260, 261, 287, 297 Temple de Khonsou ................................ 273 Temple de Kom Umbû ... 36, 37, 38, 39, 194,

212 Temple de Louqsor . 164, 173, 176, 204, 288

I n d e x


Temple de Ptah ......................................... 45 Temple de Ramsès II ................................. 14

Terracotta .................................... 122, 228, 240 Textile .................................................. 130, 131

Lin .................................... 14, 73, 77, 89, 156 Tikiyya ......................................... 32, 33, 34, 35

Tikiyya al-Bustâmî .......................... 32, 34, 35 Tombes .. 22, 23, 28, 42, 53, 54, 81, 82, 83, 84,

99, 102, 103, 128, 129, 155, 175, 177, 179, 202, 208, 209, 281 Kampp 150 ........................................ 12, 175 Kampp 157 .............................................. 183 Kampp 161 ........................................ 12, 175 Tombe d’Amenemhat ............................... 12 Tombe d’Ouserhat .................................... 12 Tombe de Djéhoutyhotep ....................... 231 Tombe de Hetpet ................................ 81, 82 Tombe de Irtieru (TT390) ................... 12, 281 Tombe de Karabasken (TT391) ........ 280, 281 Tombe de Karakhamun (TT223) .............. 281 Tombe de Nefer Theth .............................. 40 Tombe de Néfertiti .................................... 26 Tombe de Toutankhamon (KV62) . 26, 47, 85,

162, 216 Tomographie ......................................... 77, 147 Torah ........................................................... 282 Tourisme 17, 21, 36, 38, 39, 48, 50, 51, 52, 69,

75, 80, 81, 85, 86, 96, 98, 99, 101, 108, 109, 114, 117, 139, 148, 150, 151, 155, 157, 163, 164, 175, 183, 202, 204, 207, 216, 237, 241, 247, 248, 252, 253, 257, 258, 261, 262, 269, 270, 271, 273, 276, 285

Trafic archéologique ................................... 217 Transfert ..... 38, 39, 45, 49, 55, 56, 88, 90, 171,

174, 181, 184, 188, 190, 191, 192, 198, 199, 214, 219

Tremblement de terre 21, 33, 53, 79, 118, 150, 164, 173, 188, 231

Trône ......................... 9, 99, 101, 106, 133, 146

U

Unesco World Heritage List (WHL) . 21, 69, 176, 191, 257

Universités American University in Cairo (AUC) .... 61, 96,

205, 215, 302 Higashi Nippon International University .... 93 Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz ... 128,

129 Katholieke Universiteit Leuven ........ 229, 231 Leuven University ............................. 128, 129

The University of Sydney ......................... 145 Università di Torino .............................. 26, 85 Université al-Mansûra ................................ 63 Université d‘Ayn Shams ........................... 193 Université d’Alexandrie ............................ 273 Université d’Hilwân .................................. 269 Université du Caire ..... 45, 79, 108, 111, 191,

207, 264, 265 Université Paul-Valéry Montpellier III ......... 22 Université Paul-Valéry, Montpellier III ...... 269 University of Bristol .................................... 88 University of Cambridge .................. 236, 237 University of Chicago ................................. 36 University of Manchester ... 47, 48, 94, 95, 96 University of Oxford ................................. 115 Waseda University ............................... 57, 72 Yale University ................................. 266, 267

V

Vaiselle ........................................................ 211 Vallées

Vallée des Rois ...... 17, 46, 96, 146, 154, 169, 213

Vallée des Singes ................................. 46, 47 Vases .... 29, 137, 195, 197, 211, 217, 224, 254,

281 Vase canope ............ 104, 122, 156, 280, 281

Verre .............................. 31, 186, 187, 210, 211 Vierge Marie ............ 21, 98, 171, 259, 279, 288 Vin ......................................... 83, 138, 208, 209 Viscère ......................................................... 280 Vol .. 39, 40, 148, 165, 180, 181, 182, 189, 191,

195, 199, 218, 219, 220, 236, 237, 240, 241, 270

W

Wâdî Umm Tînîdbâ ..................................... 267 Wakâla-s ...................................................... 278

Wakâlat al-Giddâwî .......................... 277, 278 World Heritage Day .................... 173, 176, 183

Z

Zone piétonne ......................... 69, 80, 107, 111

Couverture BIA 57 - egyptologues.net

Documents

Transcript of Couverture BIA 57 - egyptologues.net