Abu dhabi: An Egyptian archaeological mission working at the Tell el-Yahudiya archaeological site in Qalyubia Governorate has uncovered a number of rock-cut tombs of different architectural styles, while continuing to excavate the remains of a Roman camp in the upper layers above the tombs.

According to Emirates News Agency, Dr. Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities, stated that the discovery represents an important addition to the history of the area, particularly given the rarity of rock-cut tombs in the Nile Delta due to its predominantly clay soil. He emphasized that the excavation would enhance the understanding of burial practices and their development in the eastern Delta across different historical periods.

El-Leithy noted that archaeological evidence suggests the tombs date back to the late New Kingdom and were continuously used through the Late Period, indicating ongoing funerary activity at the site over successive historical periods. He further explained that the discovery of the Roman camp remains above the tombs confirms the continued use of the Tell el-Yahudiya area during different historical periods and underscores its strategic importance over time.

The tombs are identified as belonging to two architectural types: the first features a staircase leading to a hall with burial niches, while the second consists of a rectangular shaft leading to two burial chambers. Such tombs are a rare find in the Delta, with only a few known examples, including rock-cut tombs at Kom El-Shoqafa in Alexandria and sites along Egypt's North Coast.