Tomb of Wahtye

In November 2018, archaeologists uncovered the remarkably preserved tomb of Wahtye, a high-ranking priest who served under king Neferirkare Kakai during Egypt’s Fifth Dynasty, around 2415–2405 B.C.

This significant find was documented in the Netflix film “Secrets of the Saqqara Tomb“. Released in 2020, the film captures the emotional journey of the archaeologists, the thrill of each new revelation, and the meticulous process of piecing together the life and times of Wahtye. Through intimate storytelling and stunning cinematography, viewers are transported to the sands of Saqqara, witnessing history being unearthed before their eyes.

The discovery of Wahtye’s tomb was nothing short of monumental. Led by Egyptian archaeologist Mostafa Waziri and his team, the excavation was a testament to modern scientific inquiry coupled with ancient intrigue. As Secretary-General of Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities, Waziri’s leadership brought together a team whose dedication was palpable, their labour guided by a reverence for history and a quest for knowledge.

Located in the Saqqara necropolis, the tomb measures approximately 10 meters long and 3 metres wide. Its walls are adorned with vibrant reliefs depicting Wahtye, his wife Weret Ptah, their four children, and his mother Merit Meen. Inside, four shafts were discovered, the first was empty and incomplete, while the remaining three contained the remains of Wahtye and his family members.

The tomb itself is a testament to the architectural sophistication of the Old Kingdom. Measuring approximately 10 metres in length and 3 metres in width, the structure is crafted with limestone blocks, its walls adorned with vibrant reliefs. These meticulously carved scenes illustrate Wahtye’s life and duties, portraying him alongside his wife, Weret Ptah, their four children, and his mother, Merit Meen. The reliefs are exceptional in their detail, showcasing activities like fishing, hunting, and music – a celebration of life meant to ensure his eternal prosperity in the afterlife. “The colour is almost intact even though the tomb is almost 4,400 years old!”, Waziri declared at the 2018 press conference.

Fifty-five statues, carved in his likeness, occupy the niches of the tomb, emphasizing his prominence and reverence. The artistic style is characteristic of the Fifth Dynasty, distinguished by its vivid colouring and naturalistic depictions, capturing gestures and expressions with remarkable sensitivity. This realism in art reflects the dynasty’s philosophical inclination towards humanism and the celebration of earthly life, even in the context of death.

Four burial shafts were unearthed within the tomb. The first was incomplete and empty, but the other three held human remains – those of Wahtye and his family. This poignant discovery raised questions about the cause of death, leading to hypotheses ranging from disease to famine, adding a layer of mystery to the narrative.

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