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(CNN) — A large number of ancient bronzes and well-preserved sarcophagi discovered in Egypt’s Saqqara were unveiled to the public on Monday, Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities said in a statement.
Archaeologists had historically uncovered relics from Egyptian dynasties buried in the necropolis of Saqqara, but the latest find marks the first and largest excavation of bronzes in the area from the late period, or 5th century BC.
The 150 statues discovered were modeled after pharaonic gods – including the protector of the tombs, Anubis; the god of creation of the day, Nefertem; and the god of the sun and the sky, Amon.
They were discovered by an Egyptian archaeological mission that has been operating since 2018 in the area, which is 29 kilometers south of Cairo.
Ancient bronzes discovered in Egyptian Saqqara were unveiled to the public on Monday.
Ministry of Antiquities in Egypt
The archaeologists also found bronze jars, believed to have been used during prayer rituals for the goddess of fertility, Isis, the statement said.
Another 250 colored wooden sarcophagi containing well-preserved mummies, wooden statues, wooden masks with gold paint and dozens of cat figurines were discovered by the mission.
The mission also found a cache of 15th-century BC New Kingdom discoveries, including a bronze mirror, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and anklets.
Photos released by the ministry showed highly detailed bronze statues and coffins on display for the public in Sakkara.
Top image: Colored sarcophagi discovered at Saqqara in Egypt were unveiled to the public Monday. (Egypt Ministry of Antiquities)
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