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Thursday, July 15, 2004
Some of the earliest example of ancient Egyptian civilization were experienced at Toshka.It still contains many artifacts that have yet to be excavated. Because of this, the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA) decided to catalogue and survey the areas, in preparation for including these areas under the authority of the SCA. Dr. Atiya Radwan, managing director of archaeological digs at the SCA, says Toshka is full of archaeological treasures, especially those that date back to the late Stone Age, from 9000 to 5500 BC. Nabta valley is one of the most important locations in Toshka. An American expedition worked there periodically Roman for 15 years, between 1976 to 2004.uncovering Stone Age relics dating back to the first Pharonic dynasties. The most important artifact found there was the compass, or piece of meteorological equipment’, that determined when water fell.Also found was the cattle slaughterhouse next to the compass, which was the location for offerings to the gods for rain. Complementary graves, known as Megalist, were also found, filled with sandstone-covered inscriptions. This block of inscribed rock is some of the oldest in Egypt, and has been taken to the Nuba Museum. Dr. Radwan added that the Gabal al-Ramla area is one of the important archaeological site in Toshka.Thirteen skeletons were found there-nine women, two men and two youths as well as funeral furniture consisting of bone bracelets and jewels. Also found were clay vases, and a group of needles as well as a high quality plate with a rock handle. Mohammad Abdel Fatah, managing director of Upper Egypt Antiquities, cautions that Toshka needs to be protected from the investment projects taking place there. Contacts have been made with the Ministries of Agriculture and Irrigation to exclude these areas from the investment projects. A delegation of specialists in the Stone Age will be sent to the area to survey it and cooperate with other delegations. They will decide if the 1982 law 117 that protects archaeological sites encompasses these locations. |
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