Empty Sarcophagus Discovered in Burial Chamber Near Cairo

Czech archeologists have discovered an empty sarcophagus in a burial chamber 60 feet underground at Abu Sir, Egypt, about 17 miles southwest of Cairo. Although the tomb was robbed shortly after it was built about 4,200 years ago, hieroglyphics on its walls tell the story of Inti, a judge of the city of Nekhen.

Inti’s two sons are depicted along the entrance walls, while his wife is shown kneeling at her husband’s feet on the chapel walls. Inti is shown in several ways: standing with a scepter and stick in his hand, sitting with his wife at his feet, and standing with offerings of food and drink.

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--Compiled by Times medical writer Thomas H. Maugh II