Friday March 29th, 2024
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4,000-Year-Old Crocodile Heads Uncovered in Luxor Tombs

According to researchers, crocodile heads were a common sight in the burial sites of powerful figures.

Cairo Scene

4,000-Year-Old Crocodile Heads Uncovered in Luxor Tombs

Excavations in a 4,000-year-old burial site near the Temple of Hatshepsut in Luxor have uncovered the remains of nine crocodile heads, wrapped in fabric and believed to be discarded by previous researchers.

The crocodile heads were discovered across two tombs: one belonging to Chancellor Cheti who served during the reign of Pharaoh Mentuhotep II, and the other tomb belonging to the Pharaoh's prime minister. 

The crocodiles were believed to assist the deceased with their journey into the afterlife and garnered protection from Sobek, an ancient Egyptian who was often depicted as a crocodile himself. The heads ranged from six feet and 13 feet long, and were said to be common in burial sites of powerful ancient Egyptian figures.