In an email exchange with CNN, Dr. Nuzzolo added: “Scientists in the 19th century excavated only a very small part of this mud-brick structure. During careful excavations beneath the remaining fragments of the temple, we also found an older mud-brick foundation structure. This led to the conclusion that another structure may have existed at the same location.”
“On further excavation, a white limestone column base about 60cm deep was revealed. In addition, archaeologists found artifacts such as seals engraved with the names of kings who ruled before Nyuerra. These seals may have been part of a jar lid,” said Dr. Nuzzolo.
The structures were made entirely of mud bricks. Some of the jars found in the temple were filled with ritual mud and were only used for specific religious events. It is estimated that these ceramic jars date back to the 25th century BC, a generation or two before Nyuserra lived.
In addition, the temple’s mud-brick monuments are “of very impressive size.” However, Nyuserra ritually destroyed it to build his own sun temple. He even used his power to claim the right to worship the sun god Ra and considered himself the only son of the sun god on Earth.
Dr. Massimiliano Nuzzolo also stated: “Normally, when a king is in a hurry for some reason, he will build structures with mud bricks, the main component of which is stone. This material has the disadvantage of easily disappearing over time. This is also true for some other ancient Egyptian monuments built with similar perishable materials. Moreover, building with mud bricks will make the structure easy to destroy or bury under other structures, making excavation difficult, which is what we are facing.”
In addition to the temple that has been discovered, the research team will continue to study pottery to learn about how people lived at that time. Decorative motifs on pottery can help clarify what ancient people believed. In addition, scientists hope to find out which king was responsible for building the temple through continued excavations at the site.
