Archaeologists working at an ancient burial site in Egypt have unearthed two ancient tombs that not only contain mummies but also nine horrifying monster skulls.
According to Ancient Origins, the monsters have been identified as ancient Nile crocodiles, which were not mummified but simply wrapped in cloth and arranged around the deceased as part of a special ritual.
Scientists from the Mediterranean Archaeological Center at the University of Warsaw made a significant discovery while excavating at the el-Asassif Necropolis, an ancient burial ground located just west of the famous Hatshepsut Mortuary Temple.
Monster remains from the ancient tomb being taken to the lab – (Photo: Patryk Chudzik)
According to Heritage Daily, the excavation of the two ancient tombs began in 2013. Preliminary findings suggest that one of the tombs belonged to a man named “Cheti,” a high-ranking official during the reign of Pharaoh Nebhepetra Mentuhotep II (who ruled from 2055 to 2022 BC).
The identity of the second mummy remains a mystery.
The 4,000-year-old crocodiles in the tomb may not only be regarded as ordinary crocodiles, as in Greek mythology, Nile crocodiles or West African crocodiles are embodiments of the god Sobek.
The god Sobek in Egyptian mythology – (Photo: REALM OF HISTORY).
The god Sobek is depicted both as a true crocodile and as a man with a crocodile head, associated with the power of the Pharaohs, fertility, and military capability. He is also regarded as a protective deity who helps counter the dangers posed by the Nile River.
