In October, archaeologists cracked the lid on a major discovery. As an excited crowd watched, researchers slowly opened an ancient coffin. Inside was a mummy wrapped in colorful cloth. Experts say it was the body of an Egyptian man who died about 2,600 years ago!
The coffin, known as a sarcophagus, was one of dozens recently discovered just south of Cairo, Egypt's capital. The coffins were found underground in the Saqqara Necropolis. The huge ancient cemetery is also the site of pyramids and other ruins.
In ancient Egypt, people often carefully wrapped up the bodies of those who died to prevent them from rotting away. They believed that a person needed his or her body in the afterlife.
Researchers say paintings on the coffins indicate that the people buried in them were priests and government officials. Other treasures, including statues and jewels, were also found at the site. Archaeologists expect to discover even more mummies nearby. Who knows what else they will dig up?
“I consider this the beginning of a big discovery,” said Egyptian official Khaled El-Anany.