In 2022, Dr. Zahi Hawass, known as the “Indiana Jones of Egypt,” and his apprentice Dr. Mostafa Waziri embarked on an exploration of Saqqara archaeological sites. Their goal was to uncover significant findings that shed light on ancient Egyptian mysteries.
Hawass and Waziri were once close collaborators but now face fierce competition within their field. Despite this, Waziri continues to have immense respect for Hawass as his mentor. Their insightful discussions about research projects revealing Egypt’s rich past have brought both parties great pleasure and mutual admiration.
Netflix documentary “Unknown: The Lost Pyramid” offers an intriguing glimpse into the lives of these two remarkable Egyptologists. It follows their explorations and excavations and explores the mental and physical obstacles they must confront during ambitious archaeological projects.
What is the Lost Pyramid? When did Huni rule?
King Huni remains shrouded in mystery. Most historical accounts about him rely solely on fragmented ancient scrolls and an uncertain statue head said to represent him. Consequently, his story remains full of uncertainty and complexity. Still, most accept that he reigned as Pharaoh of Egypt’s Third Dynasty until 2613 BC, with an impressive 24-year rule period under his name.
One factor contributing to Huni’s notoriety during the Old Kingdom period was his interment within immense limestone pyramids with his vast wealth, as was the common practice of that era.
Although many Egyptologists, particularly those specializing in the Fourth Dynasty, believe Huni was King Sneferu’s immediate predecessor and father, this theory has faced challenges and alternative viewpoints. Of particular note is how his Step Pyramid style became the basis upon which later successors built and expanded. Consequently, many structures associated with him, such as the Meidum or Maydum Pyramid, Edfu South Pyramid, and Cultic Step Pyramids, have long been linked or associated with this mysterious ruler for nearly 100 years!
Huni’s connection with the Step Pyramid style’s development is an important consideration for historians and archaeologists researching his reign as ruler. Further exploration and examination of available evidence may help shed more light on King Huni’s legacy and his contribution to ancient Egyptian architecture and culture.
Is The Pyramid Of Huni Found?
Dr. Hawass and his team discovered a limestone quarry, further supporting Dr. Hawass’ theory that Huni’s pyramid stood within the Gisr-el-Mudir area. During excavation, they also discovered nine monuments belonging to high-ranking officials from the Old Kingdom. They found this discovery astonishing. Ancient Egyptian culture often saw members of the royal family and esteemed officials being interred near the tomb of their king. The presence of such statues signified the wealth and status associated with that cemetery.
Notably, most monuments in the area had been looted or destroyed, making this discovery all the more significant. Dr. Hawass and his colleagues were delighted to confirm that their cemetery had not succumbed to the same fate. Furthermore, the unlooted pyramid of Huni brought great delight to Dr. Hawass, as he hoped this find would cement his legacy and place in history.
Dr. Hawass greatly admired Howard Carter’s efforts as an archaeologist based in England. Carter spent five years searching for Tutankhamun’s tomb and taught Dr. Hawass the value of perseverance and patience. During the excavation, Dr. Hawass’s team discovered a tomb with a sealed and undisturbed entrance, indicating nearly four millennia of undisturbed use. When they removed the stone covering, they discovered a skeleton. Dr. Hawass was drawn to this coffin because its unusual appearance could be linked to its less refined mummification techniques from the Old Kingdom era.
Preexisting damage made him decide against opening it further. Despite numerous obstacles, Dr. Hawass and his team maintained optimism during the final month of excavation, knowing they were on the verge of discovering something of historical significance. Their persistence paid off when they uncovered another massive sarcophagus of unknown origin. It contained Nebet Hut’s remains from over 4,300 years ago. Remarkably, the body remained in remarkable condition, and her ornaments still showed off their vibrant blue-green colors after millennia of being sealed.
Dr. Hawass recognized this mummy as both old and well-preserved for Egypt. Her mummification suggests that she held significant power and influence. This was further evidenced by the golden cane discovered alongside her. Dr. Hawass’s initial intuition led him to surmise that Pharaonic pyramids must lie nearby. Finally, during the final week of excavation, they came upon an enormous limestone wall that Dr. Hawass believed to be it. Dr. Hawass found solace in knowing that his contributions to the education of Egyptian archaeologists would live on beyond him and would continue long after he passed away.
What Discoveries Have Dr. Waziri and His Team Made?
Dr. Waziri’s team made an exciting discovery when they found an entrance to an ancient Egyptian tomb filled with well-preserved coffins. To protect themselves against evil forces, ancient Egyptians placed various statues within the tomb for protection. This necessitated careful removal before fully unearthing it. Due to the delicate nature of these sculptures, conservators spent over 10 days restoring them before the team could proceed further with the excavation. In addition to impressive sculptures, they also came across several intriguing objects whose significance remains undetermined until more information becomes available. Once the statues had been safely removed, the team unveiled a wooden casket from within.
Ahmose’s tomb held an exquisite bronze cat figure tucked away within it. Additionally, a gold charm with the image of a bird with human features was discovered on its chest. Upon closer examination, Dr. Waziri quickly recognized a white cylindrical object, which revealed itself to be an expertly preserved piece of papyrus. The Waziri Papyrus was one of several famous examples of ancient Egyptian scroll-form written records. It required three weeks of meticulous sanitation and humidification before being successfully unrolled. This nine-meter-long papyrus contained 113 chapters from “The Book of Death,” making it one of the best-preserved versions. Exploration of its contents provides an in-depth view into Egypt’s history and could change our understanding of ancient Egyptian religion.
Dr. Hawass remains confident that the discovery of his pyramid will be noticed worldwide, despite recent news coverage about a well-preserved papyrus scroll from Egypt. The documentary “The Lost Pyramid” highlights the groundbreaking work of two prominent Egyptologists who are pioneering future archaeology in Egypt, with their guidance and expertise shaping the future of Egyptian archaeology, Drs. Waziri and Hawass both enjoy practicing medicine. Beyond this, they share a love for exploration and studying history. As Dr. Hawass and his colleagues search for an entrance to this monumental structure in Saqqara, believed to be the largest ever discovered there, “The Lost Pyramid” offers an exhilarating glimpse of two remarkable recent discoveries. If ancient Egyptian history holds any interest for you, watching “The Lost Pyramid” promises an enriching experience.
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