The site at Abusir.
INA Research Associates Doug Inglis and Veronica Morriss, are participating in the recovery and study of a boat burial from the golden age of Egypt’s Old Kingdom at Abusir, Egypt. The 17 meter (56 ft) vessel was discovered by Dr. Miroslav Barta and his team from the Czech Institute of Egyptology last year at Abusir, where they have been excavating for decades. The boat burial is located in a non-royal cemetery on a rise that overlooks Djoser’s step pyramid to the south, and the pyramids of Neferirkare, Nyuserre Ini, and Sahure to the north. Surrounded by tombs of the 5th and 6th Dynasties, the boat seems to be associated with a massive 3rd Dynasty mastaba (a flat topped tomb), who’s owner is still unknown. It is completely surprising to find a boat burial associated with a non-royal tomb during this period. Whoever commissioned the tomb must have been an incredibly important individual. Over the millennia, the boat’s timbers have dried and shrank, making it extremely fragile. The Egyptian conservator has to work quickly to consolidate the remains which would otherwise crumble at the slightest disturbance. Excavation is carried out with painstaking care, by dusting or gently blowing away the sand and fill to reveal this cultural treasure inch by inch. Learn more about this project and read the Al-Ahram Weekly Article.
Doug pointing out the construction features of Khufu’s Royal Boat.
Veronica at the Boat Pit of Unas.
