Middle Kingdom tombs of Asasif: archaeological activities in 2015

Abstract

Investigations in the North Asasif necropolis, conducted by a team of Polish archaeologists in 2015, focused on three Middle Kingdom complexes: MMA 508/TT 311, MMA 511, and MMA 517/TT 240. A surface collection of finds from the courtyards was studied and prepared for storage, and artifacts from inside the tombs were documented. The overall picture of illicit penetration of the complexes in later periods and their reuse, mainly in the Third Intermediate Period and the LatePeriod, is supported by the finds. Moreover, proof of the presence of Coptic monks was found intomb MMA 517/TT 240.

Keywords

• Theban Necropolis
• Middle Kingdom
• Asasif
• Khety
• Meru
• rock-cut tombs