Jordan’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Lina Annab, in the presence of Egyptologist Zahi Hawass, on Saturday announced a new archaeological discovery in the area southeast of Wadi Rum Nature Reserve in southern Jordan.
The discovery consists of a royal pharaonic hieroglyphic inscription bearing a royal seal (cartouche) dating back to the Egyptian King Ramses III (1186–1155 BC).
The minister emphasized the importance of this discovery, as it is the first Ancient Egyptian inscription to be discovered on Jordanian soil.
This finding therefore exhibits great significance and constitutes material evidence of the historical ties between ancient Egypt, Jordan, and the Arabian Peninsula in general, she explained – providing new evidence for the depth of civilizational accumulation in Jordan.
She also expressed the great honor of Hawass’ presence, noting the importance of cultural and scientific cooperation between the two sides.
Annab affirmed the commitment of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and the Department of Antiquities to continue their efforts to highlight national heritage and pass it on to future generations.
Hawass expressed his happiness to participate in the announcement by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities of this important archaeological discovery.
He explained that the archaeological discovery revealed the presence of two cartouches bearing the name of King Ramses III. The first cartouche refers to his birth name, and the second to his throne name, declaring him the king of Upper and Lower Egypt.
Hawass said that this discovery calls for more organized excavations at the site.
According to Hawass, discovering the name of King Ramses III in southern Jordan is very significant, and it is possible that more objects will be uncovered that reveal the historical relations between Jordan and Egypt dating back more than 3,000 years.
He explained the importance of cooperation between the Jordanian and Egyptian sides in this field, saying, “This discovery gives us great responsibility, and it is a wonderful thing to be participating with archaeologists in Jordan in these excavations, marking the first time such joint cooperation has taken place in antiquities and archaeological excavations.”
Minister Annab explained that the final announcement of the discovery will be made after the completion of all studies that will allow for a full description of the finding.
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
