Archaeologists in Egypt have uncovered 18 spectacular tombs featuring a massive granite coffin, pristine artefacts, and legendary protective funerary amulets, including so-called “golden tongues.” The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced the breakthrough, which was made by the Egyptian Archaeological Mission at the ancient coastal site of Marina Al-Ameen.
Site discovered in 1986 yields 44 tombs
The historic site was originally stumbled upon in 1986 during local construction work. Since then, an impressive 44 graves, tombs and crypts have been meticulously excavated. This latest breakthrough serves as a reminder that the location is one of the most prominent and vital ancient Mediterranean coastal towns.
Minister hails cultural significance
Sherif Fathi, Egypt's Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, hailed the find, stating it “contributes to understanding the cultural identity of the inhabitants of the ancient city of Marina.” He added that the discovery highlights the location's “historical role as a civil and cultural centre linking Egypt and the Mediterranean world.”
Plans to transform site into global tourist destination
Dr Hisham Alithi explained that ambitious steps are already being taken to transform Marina Al-Ameen into a fully integrated global tourist and archaeological destination.
Layout of the tombs
Mohamed Abdel-Badii, Head of the Egyptian Archaeology Sector at the Supreme Council of Antiquities, revealed that the newly discovered site consists of “11 tombs completely carved into the rock, which reach an average depth of eight meters, as well as seven surface tombs built in limestone.” He added that some of the graves and crypts are “exceptionally preserved,” with stone plates sealing them.
Artefacts and golden tongues
Alongside these deeply buried crypts, archaeologists uncovered surface burials yielding a treasure trove of artefacts, including ancient pottery, vases, plates, limestone altars, and basins. Dr Hisham Hussein, Head of the Central Department of Lower Egypt Antiquities, noted that one of the most exciting discoveries is a limestone altar believed to have been used for holy sacrifices. Excavators also unearthed an incomplete, beautifully crafted marble statue, thought to represent Aphrodite, the ancient Greek goddess of love.
Granite coffin and golden tongues
Dr Iman Abdul Khaliq, head of the archaeological mission and area director, revealed that the team uncovered an 8.2-foot-long (2.5m) granite coffin, complete with its original lid and undisturbed human remains. The team discovered 24 gold pieces placed directly inside the mouths of the deceased. Known to historians as “golden tongues,” these foil amulets offer a fascinating window into the period's funeral beliefs. According to ancient myth, the gold tongues allowed the dead to speak with the gods and plead their case in the afterlife. Remarkably, one of the gold pieces was crafted into the shape of the “Eye of Horus” — one of the most powerful and revered protective symbols in ancient Egypt.
