Wednesday, 11 November 2009
Thursday, 5 November 2009
Notes from the Luxor Symposium
There was a handout of abstracts which I have copied here and I also took some notes but these are not complete firstly this symposium will be published and secondly a couple of speakers I have previously published their talks and did not take notes.
Luxor Symposium 4 November 2009-11-05
Abstract
On 4th November 1922 the steps leading to the tomb of Tutankamun (Kv62) were found by the Howard Carter and his team, an expedition funded by Lord Carnarvon. The discovery on King Tutankamun’s tomb revealed, by all accounts, the best preserved and most intact royal tomb ever found in the Valley of the kings, and has led to a series of successful, international exhibitions and publication focusing on the contents of the tomb.
A direct consequence of this discovery was an increased interest and enthusiasm for Egyptology, resulting in more foreign expeditions at the Valley of the Kings. Moreover, the discovery of another royal tomb continues to be the dream of all Egyptologists until this day.
The year 2007 marked the first Egyptian expedition working in the Valley of Kings, who have unearthed a wealth of important information on the history of the valley. In addition to their quest to find other missing royal tombs, the Egyptian expedition is currently working in the tunnel of the tomb of King Seti I (KV17) and has revealed a lot of information on the tunnel’s construction and function.
The Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA) is inaugurating the opening of Carter’s rest house, located on Luxor’s West Bank, on 4th November 2009. The rest-house, built in 1910, is closely linked with all the events surrounding Howard Carter’s magnificent discoveries and work. Restored and upgraded by the SCA, the rest-house will include various facilities allowing it to host a permanent exhibition telling the story of Carter’s exceptional discovery. In conjunction with the inauguration, marking 87th anniversary of the discovery of the tomb of Tutankamun, the symposium entitled Valley of Kings, Since Howard Carter will feature prominent archaeologist and scholars who conducted research related to the Valley of Kings.
The aim of the symposium is to provide a forum for dialogue surrounding the Valley of Kings. The symposium organizers intend to hold future scholarly sessions at the rest house on an annual basis, as a means to encourage scholars working at the site to discuss their finds, ideas, problems and exchange ideas.
Egyptian Expedition Work at the Valley of the Kings – Zahi Hawass
In November 2007, the first all-Egyptian team ever to work at the Valley of the Kings began excavations at four locations:
1) Between KV7 and KV8
2) To the east of KV62
3) In the so called Valley of the Monkeys
4) Inside the tunnel of Seti I (KV17)
This paper will address many significant discoveries, which are enhancing our understanding of one of the most fascinating places in Egypt. Among these discoveries are the means and methods used by the ancient Egyptians to control water and protect the tombs from flash floods. Other important revelations of this expedition include the workman’s huts and magazines to the east KV62, evidence of ancient graffiti throughout the valley and various tomb foundation deposits associated with cult practices.
My notes
They are using DNS and CAT scan technology and laboratory 1 in Cairo museum has had its findings confirmed by laboratory 2. Once these findings have been externally confirmed Zahi will announce them.
There has been no previous all Egyptian excavation and they have been looking at Ramases VIII. They have found 14 new graffiti which are related to the old Userhet graffiti. Also a man made wall and some shafts and places were the ancient workmen stored their lunch. KVC has been relocated under the inspectors hut at the end of the old rest area. The KV64 area published on the internet is just a crack in the valley not a tomb. Dr Zahi stated he does not believe in radar. In ancient times the workman’s huts were used as storage and many bits and pieces were found inside. Then they moved to the Western Valley where foundation deposits were found and radar was used in their search. In the Seti I tunnel back in the 1960’s Sheikh Ali excavated to a depth of 435 feet but at one point he went off the tunnel proper. They have undertaken 300 ft of conservation building stairs and a railway. Dr Zahi believes the tunnel is important and is part of the caves of the roots of Osirus.
Re-Excavating the tomb of Horemheb (KV45) – Geoffrey Martin
This tomb was discovered in 1908 by Theodore M Davies, and was cleared under the supervision of Edward Ayrton. The results were published in the Tombs of Harmhabi and Touatankhamamou (1912). The volume is clearly partial. There is no mention of pottery, and many objects found were not fully published or illustrated. Some problems were unresolved until recently, including the status of the Well Shaft: there was no certainty that Davies had excavated it to the bottom. In the large undecorated room behind the sarcophagus chamber a huge mound of debris awaited investigation. It seemed, partly at least, to consist of material deposited there by the excavators and by those repairing and conserving the monument t the time of the discovery and in more recent years. A tomb of such magnitude and importance clearly needed further work to ensure that all the evidence was available for a complete publication of the artefacts and an accurate section of the Shaft. The sarcophagus, too, demand attention: skeletal material ad debris remained inside, and the lid, repaired and replaced in position after the discovery in 1908, was wrongly orientated.
The Cambridge Expedition to the Valley of kings, funded by Piers and Jenny Litherland, was granted permission by the SCA in 2005 to carry out the projects, and the monument is now (2009) entirely free of debris. A complete catalogue was made of the objects found, including those in the Cairo museum and elsewhere, emanating from the 1908 excavation and from the work of the Cambridge Expedition. From the latter important material came to light, not least many sherds from wine jars, found in the Shaft, part of Horemheb funerary equipment. A number bear year dates 13 and 14 of the king. This new material will prove vital in establishing the true length of his reign, hitherto a controversial matter. Dr Jacobus van Dijk is working on the dockets. All the material is now at hand to begin a study of the objects and human remains found in the tomb by Davies and the Cambridge Expedition, to compare and contrast with material excavated in the near contemporary deposit in KV62 and from earlier, plundered New Kingdom tombs in the valley. The publication will include contributions by David Aston, Edwin Brock, J van Dijk and Roxie Walker.
My notes
Why reexcavate, in the past excavation was done to quickly and the excavation report misses lots of objects. It was only 2 pages long, Ayton’s account was considered too long and was omitted, sadly it is now lost. The shaft and room behind the sarcophagus are now empty of debris. Davies found objects but poorly documented and the debris was thrown into the back room. All the objects are late 18th dynasty. In their debris they found glass inlays similar to those in Tutankamun’s Hathor couch, beads, remnants of arrow heads, sand stone grinders, and wine jars seals. In the well shaft they found blocking stones but not any of the painted pieces. At the bottom they found two rooms a the 8 meter level containing wine dockets showing years 14/15 which indicate his reign was much shorter than thought. In the sarcophagus there were bones of at least three people. Although the tomb was supposedly found in 1908 there is graffiti of 1887 and 1896 which may explain wy pieces that must be from the tomb are in museums.
The West Valley and Amenmesse Projects (1971-2009- Otto Schaden
In 1971 I began my KV experience with an examination of Ay’s tomb WV23 with the aim of proposing to undertake a clearance of the tomb. This was accomplished in 1972 and in the scattered years afterwards the work was advanced. Then in 1992, the Amenmesse Project was initiated, the basic aim being a full investigation of KV10. The led to the discovery of the workman’s huts and the new tomb KV63
My notes
He started in the west tomb in 1971, although John Rommer said he was the first in KV4, archaeology has changed since he started. He was inspired by Elizabeth Thomas’s book published in the 1960’s/ WV25 was full of late burials, it had started as a royal tomb but never finished and there are no deposits. WV23 the pillared hall became the burial chamber. Found lid of sarcophagus, remnants of ushabities which indicated Ay had been buried there. They also found huts fragments of Ay’s burial. WV24 was a shaft tomb and had glass inlay pieces. KV10 the maps were incorrect for the tomb it is not as steep. Lots of flood damage. No evidence of burial but fragments of a queen’s burial, might have been the queen mother. They wanted to find foundation deposits and that led to the discovery of KC63. So far inscriptions on the coffins are for an untitled lady and a royal nurse.
The tomb of Ramases II KV7 - Christian Leblanc
The excavation carried out at the tomb of Ramses II since 1993, has permitted to clear and clean almost the whole underground structure which suffered of at least twelve diluvian rains. At present, only the shaft and two annexes should be excavated before commencing the important work of restoration of the tomb. First of all it is necessary to strengthen the burial chamber, the vaulted ceiling of which has no more pillars to support it. There pillars (eight in number) shivered long time ago under the pressure of swelling marls caused by the consecutive floods. , many skilled surveyors of civil engineering have inquired about the site and some solutions have been proposed. We hope that all these solutions can be submitted to the attention of the Supreme Council of Antiquities so this chamber could be strengthened, which will then be put into worth, according a project which both MAFTO and INSIGHT are working.
Along with archaeological research which brought a lot of information about the history of this burial, it was also possible, during the several expeditions to identify the iconographical wall programme of both corridors and the chambers which we are going to discuss about in our speech.
No notes as the talk was in French
Undecorated Tombs in the Valley of Kings – Donald Ryan
This was a dupplicate talk of one I have documented before.
Tutankamun’s Mask Reconsidered – Nicholas Reeves
Tutankamun’s gold mask is one of the ancient world’s most spectacular artworks, yet more than 80 years after its discovery the piece remains essentially unstudied. This paper draws together what we currently know about the object, focussing particularly on the details of its discovery and the materials and techniques employed in its manufacture. In the context of what we are beginning increasingly to discern about the makeshift character of Tutankamun’s burial, two key questions are posed: Was the mask actually made for the young king? And if not, who might its original owner have been?
My notes
Is this a reused piece, there has been no critical study only artistic ones. Harry Burton’s photos are bland. It I 54 cm by 39cm and 10.23 kilos. It is an official portrait and when discovered had three necklaces and a false beard. The gold of the face and head cloth are different carats and have a different coloured sheen, blue on the face and red on the cloth. There was damage done by Carter removing it from the innermost coffin but there was also damage done in antiquity. There is a hole to attach the flail and a slight crushing to the right hand side. Examination of the inside reveals it is made up of several pieces, face, ears, beard, back panel, front panel, collar, bureaus and the face. The face is the most obvious as the blue is lapis rather than the blue of the nemes head cloth. It seems to have been a construction norm to have a separate face. It was believed that Tutankamun’s face was originally Akhenaton’s face but now he does not believe this.
If Harry Burtons photo there are two discs of foil to cover the ear piercings, the plugs were in place so there was no intention to disguise. Tuthmosis IV was the first king with pierced ears but these are not acknowledged. Akhenaton shows his but not with a hole but a depression. The lotus head from the tomb show Tutankamun as a young boy is the only one that has actual holes showing. It is very rare to see a king with earrings. There is one of Ramses II as a young prince with a side lock of youth and earring. Blackman in her anthropological study notes that sometimes young boys who were the only son in modern Egyptian culture had one ear pierced and this might have been to disguise them. So holes were for young children and Tutankamun’s plugs show that he was older. Other pieces show Neferneferru as beneficial for her husband, so is this a woman. The canopic coffinites have the name inside and they all have functional pierced ears. So could these have been made for a co-regent queen, were these the original ears of Nefertiti put back on a Tutankamun face? Was Nefertiti not buried as a co-regent queen so these goods were needed? Was she buried as a full ruler or back to a queen status? Yes Nicholas left us with loads of questions and thought provoking notes.
The afternoon session was just as interesting but I will let you wait until the seminar is published to read about those.
Luxor Symposium 4 November 2009-11-05
Abstract
On 4th November 1922 the steps leading to the tomb of Tutankamun (Kv62) were found by the Howard Carter and his team, an expedition funded by Lord Carnarvon. The discovery on King Tutankamun’s tomb revealed, by all accounts, the best preserved and most intact royal tomb ever found in the Valley of the kings, and has led to a series of successful, international exhibitions and publication focusing on the contents of the tomb.
A direct consequence of this discovery was an increased interest and enthusiasm for Egyptology, resulting in more foreign expeditions at the Valley of the Kings. Moreover, the discovery of another royal tomb continues to be the dream of all Egyptologists until this day.
The year 2007 marked the first Egyptian expedition working in the Valley of Kings, who have unearthed a wealth of important information on the history of the valley. In addition to their quest to find other missing royal tombs, the Egyptian expedition is currently working in the tunnel of the tomb of King Seti I (KV17) and has revealed a lot of information on the tunnel’s construction and function.
The Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA) is inaugurating the opening of Carter’s rest house, located on Luxor’s West Bank, on 4th November 2009. The rest-house, built in 1910, is closely linked with all the events surrounding Howard Carter’s magnificent discoveries and work. Restored and upgraded by the SCA, the rest-house will include various facilities allowing it to host a permanent exhibition telling the story of Carter’s exceptional discovery. In conjunction with the inauguration, marking 87th anniversary of the discovery of the tomb of Tutankamun, the symposium entitled Valley of Kings, Since Howard Carter will feature prominent archaeologist and scholars who conducted research related to the Valley of Kings.
The aim of the symposium is to provide a forum for dialogue surrounding the Valley of Kings. The symposium organizers intend to hold future scholarly sessions at the rest house on an annual basis, as a means to encourage scholars working at the site to discuss their finds, ideas, problems and exchange ideas.
Egyptian Expedition Work at the Valley of the Kings – Zahi Hawass
In November 2007, the first all-Egyptian team ever to work at the Valley of the Kings began excavations at four locations:
1) Between KV7 and KV8
2) To the east of KV62
3) In the so called Valley of the Monkeys
4) Inside the tunnel of Seti I (KV17)
This paper will address many significant discoveries, which are enhancing our understanding of one of the most fascinating places in Egypt. Among these discoveries are the means and methods used by the ancient Egyptians to control water and protect the tombs from flash floods. Other important revelations of this expedition include the workman’s huts and magazines to the east KV62, evidence of ancient graffiti throughout the valley and various tomb foundation deposits associated with cult practices.
My notes
They are using DNS and CAT scan technology and laboratory 1 in Cairo museum has had its findings confirmed by laboratory 2. Once these findings have been externally confirmed Zahi will announce them.
There has been no previous all Egyptian excavation and they have been looking at Ramases VIII. They have found 14 new graffiti which are related to the old Userhet graffiti. Also a man made wall and some shafts and places were the ancient workmen stored their lunch. KVC has been relocated under the inspectors hut at the end of the old rest area. The KV64 area published on the internet is just a crack in the valley not a tomb. Dr Zahi stated he does not believe in radar. In ancient times the workman’s huts were used as storage and many bits and pieces were found inside. Then they moved to the Western Valley where foundation deposits were found and radar was used in their search. In the Seti I tunnel back in the 1960’s Sheikh Ali excavated to a depth of 435 feet but at one point he went off the tunnel proper. They have undertaken 300 ft of conservation building stairs and a railway. Dr Zahi believes the tunnel is important and is part of the caves of the roots of Osirus.
Re-Excavating the tomb of Horemheb (KV45) – Geoffrey Martin
This tomb was discovered in 1908 by Theodore M Davies, and was cleared under the supervision of Edward Ayrton. The results were published in the Tombs of Harmhabi and Touatankhamamou (1912). The volume is clearly partial. There is no mention of pottery, and many objects found were not fully published or illustrated. Some problems were unresolved until recently, including the status of the Well Shaft: there was no certainty that Davies had excavated it to the bottom. In the large undecorated room behind the sarcophagus chamber a huge mound of debris awaited investigation. It seemed, partly at least, to consist of material deposited there by the excavators and by those repairing and conserving the monument t the time of the discovery and in more recent years. A tomb of such magnitude and importance clearly needed further work to ensure that all the evidence was available for a complete publication of the artefacts and an accurate section of the Shaft. The sarcophagus, too, demand attention: skeletal material ad debris remained inside, and the lid, repaired and replaced in position after the discovery in 1908, was wrongly orientated.
The Cambridge Expedition to the Valley of kings, funded by Piers and Jenny Litherland, was granted permission by the SCA in 2005 to carry out the projects, and the monument is now (2009) entirely free of debris. A complete catalogue was made of the objects found, including those in the Cairo museum and elsewhere, emanating from the 1908 excavation and from the work of the Cambridge Expedition. From the latter important material came to light, not least many sherds from wine jars, found in the Shaft, part of Horemheb funerary equipment. A number bear year dates 13 and 14 of the king. This new material will prove vital in establishing the true length of his reign, hitherto a controversial matter. Dr Jacobus van Dijk is working on the dockets. All the material is now at hand to begin a study of the objects and human remains found in the tomb by Davies and the Cambridge Expedition, to compare and contrast with material excavated in the near contemporary deposit in KV62 and from earlier, plundered New Kingdom tombs in the valley. The publication will include contributions by David Aston, Edwin Brock, J van Dijk and Roxie Walker.
My notes
Why reexcavate, in the past excavation was done to quickly and the excavation report misses lots of objects. It was only 2 pages long, Ayton’s account was considered too long and was omitted, sadly it is now lost. The shaft and room behind the sarcophagus are now empty of debris. Davies found objects but poorly documented and the debris was thrown into the back room. All the objects are late 18th dynasty. In their debris they found glass inlays similar to those in Tutankamun’s Hathor couch, beads, remnants of arrow heads, sand stone grinders, and wine jars seals. In the well shaft they found blocking stones but not any of the painted pieces. At the bottom they found two rooms a the 8 meter level containing wine dockets showing years 14/15 which indicate his reign was much shorter than thought. In the sarcophagus there were bones of at least three people. Although the tomb was supposedly found in 1908 there is graffiti of 1887 and 1896 which may explain wy pieces that must be from the tomb are in museums.
The West Valley and Amenmesse Projects (1971-2009- Otto Schaden
In 1971 I began my KV experience with an examination of Ay’s tomb WV23 with the aim of proposing to undertake a clearance of the tomb. This was accomplished in 1972 and in the scattered years afterwards the work was advanced. Then in 1992, the Amenmesse Project was initiated, the basic aim being a full investigation of KV10. The led to the discovery of the workman’s huts and the new tomb KV63
My notes
He started in the west tomb in 1971, although John Rommer said he was the first in KV4, archaeology has changed since he started. He was inspired by Elizabeth Thomas’s book published in the 1960’s/ WV25 was full of late burials, it had started as a royal tomb but never finished and there are no deposits. WV23 the pillared hall became the burial chamber. Found lid of sarcophagus, remnants of ushabities which indicated Ay had been buried there. They also found huts fragments of Ay’s burial. WV24 was a shaft tomb and had glass inlay pieces. KV10 the maps were incorrect for the tomb it is not as steep. Lots of flood damage. No evidence of burial but fragments of a queen’s burial, might have been the queen mother. They wanted to find foundation deposits and that led to the discovery of KC63. So far inscriptions on the coffins are for an untitled lady and a royal nurse.
The tomb of Ramases II KV7 - Christian Leblanc
The excavation carried out at the tomb of Ramses II since 1993, has permitted to clear and clean almost the whole underground structure which suffered of at least twelve diluvian rains. At present, only the shaft and two annexes should be excavated before commencing the important work of restoration of the tomb. First of all it is necessary to strengthen the burial chamber, the vaulted ceiling of which has no more pillars to support it. There pillars (eight in number) shivered long time ago under the pressure of swelling marls caused by the consecutive floods. , many skilled surveyors of civil engineering have inquired about the site and some solutions have been proposed. We hope that all these solutions can be submitted to the attention of the Supreme Council of Antiquities so this chamber could be strengthened, which will then be put into worth, according a project which both MAFTO and INSIGHT are working.
Along with archaeological research which brought a lot of information about the history of this burial, it was also possible, during the several expeditions to identify the iconographical wall programme of both corridors and the chambers which we are going to discuss about in our speech.
No notes as the talk was in French
Undecorated Tombs in the Valley of Kings – Donald Ryan
This was a dupplicate talk of one I have documented before.
Tutankamun’s Mask Reconsidered – Nicholas Reeves
Tutankamun’s gold mask is one of the ancient world’s most spectacular artworks, yet more than 80 years after its discovery the piece remains essentially unstudied. This paper draws together what we currently know about the object, focussing particularly on the details of its discovery and the materials and techniques employed in its manufacture. In the context of what we are beginning increasingly to discern about the makeshift character of Tutankamun’s burial, two key questions are posed: Was the mask actually made for the young king? And if not, who might its original owner have been?
My notes
Is this a reused piece, there has been no critical study only artistic ones. Harry Burton’s photos are bland. It I 54 cm by 39cm and 10.23 kilos. It is an official portrait and when discovered had three necklaces and a false beard. The gold of the face and head cloth are different carats and have a different coloured sheen, blue on the face and red on the cloth. There was damage done by Carter removing it from the innermost coffin but there was also damage done in antiquity. There is a hole to attach the flail and a slight crushing to the right hand side. Examination of the inside reveals it is made up of several pieces, face, ears, beard, back panel, front panel, collar, bureaus and the face. The face is the most obvious as the blue is lapis rather than the blue of the nemes head cloth. It seems to have been a construction norm to have a separate face. It was believed that Tutankamun’s face was originally Akhenaton’s face but now he does not believe this.
If Harry Burtons photo there are two discs of foil to cover the ear piercings, the plugs were in place so there was no intention to disguise. Tuthmosis IV was the first king with pierced ears but these are not acknowledged. Akhenaton shows his but not with a hole but a depression. The lotus head from the tomb show Tutankamun as a young boy is the only one that has actual holes showing. It is very rare to see a king with earrings. There is one of Ramses II as a young prince with a side lock of youth and earring. Blackman in her anthropological study notes that sometimes young boys who were the only son in modern Egyptian culture had one ear pierced and this might have been to disguise them. So holes were for young children and Tutankamun’s plugs show that he was older. Other pieces show Neferneferru as beneficial for her husband, so is this a woman. The canopic coffinites have the name inside and they all have functional pierced ears. So could these have been made for a co-regent queen, were these the original ears of Nefertiti put back on a Tutankamun face? Was Nefertiti not buried as a co-regent queen so these goods were needed? Was she buried as a full ruler or back to a queen status? Yes Nicholas left us with loads of questions and thought provoking notes.
The afternoon session was just as interesting but I will let you wait until the seminar is published to read about those.
Wednesday, 4 November 2009
Opening of the Carter Dig House, Luxor, Egypt
Lord Carnarvon, the 8th Earl gave a speech whilst those on the top table listened. From right to left Samir Farag, Dr Zahi Hawas, Lady Carnarvon, and members of the Carter family.
The plebs enjoyed it too, my friend Ros Eavis-Oliveria and Michael Campbell-Smith (aka Michael on the roof).
They found original surveying equipment, seen here as you go in and in the display stand is one of the bricks that was sent out by Lord Carnarvon to Egypt to build the house for Carter. It is dated 1910. It was a joke between them that it was Castle Carter like Carnarvon had Highclere Castle. (Lady Fiona Carnarvon told me that story)
Harry Burton's camera just outside his darkroom, a tiny space, how he managed I can't imagine.
The original kitchen with some original equipment, don't worry if you come to the cafeteria there is a really posh new kitchen. But this is quite interesting as it had very little in it. Egyptians are amazing at making the most delicious food out of the simplest food and using minimal equipement.
This the dining room, some is original and some reproductions. There is a wonderful decanter and glasses disguised as a stack of three books. the photography of Lord Carnarvon relaxing in the deckchair was probably taken in the verander outside this room.
This is photos of Howard Carter's office, the setting for my photo with Lord and Lady Carnarvon. They had a wonderful letter set on the desk together with fascimilies of drawings and notes. The desk is original.
Dr Zahi Hawass annouced that you can stay in this bedroom for $20,000 USD on the night 4th November 2010 and $10,000 USD on some other selected nights!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The plebs enjoyed it too, my friend Ros Eavis-Oliveria and Michael Campbell-Smith (aka Michael on the roof).
They found original surveying equipment, seen here as you go in and in the display stand is one of the bricks that was sent out by Lord Carnarvon to Egypt to build the house for Carter. It is dated 1910. It was a joke between them that it was Castle Carter like Carnarvon had Highclere Castle. (Lady Fiona Carnarvon told me that story)
Harry Burton's camera just outside his darkroom, a tiny space, how he managed I can't imagine.
The original kitchen with some original equipment, don't worry if you come to the cafeteria there is a really posh new kitchen. But this is quite interesting as it had very little in it. Egyptians are amazing at making the most delicious food out of the simplest food and using minimal equipement.
This the dining room, some is original and some reproductions. There is a wonderful decanter and glasses disguised as a stack of three books. the photography of Lord Carnarvon relaxing in the deckchair was probably taken in the verander outside this room.
This is photos of Howard Carter's office, the setting for my photo with Lord and Lady Carnarvon. They had a wonderful letter set on the desk together with fascimilies of drawings and notes. The desk is original.
Dr Zahi Hawass annouced that you can stay in this bedroom for $20,000 USD on the night 4th November 2010 and $10,000 USD on some other selected nights!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, 3 November 2009
Lord and Lady Carnarvon at the Carter House
It was absolute mayhem at the Carter House today preparing from the grand opening tomorrow. Millions of people trying to work and millions of people want to have an advanced look stopping the millions of people that were trying to work. Tempers were getting frayed but I am sure it will all be fine.
I had taken one look at the furniture yesterday and came armed with two cans of furniture polish and with the help of my friend Ros we removed the building dust from everything we could find. To be honest there was so much in the air I sure it is all coated again but we did our best.
Whilst we were working Dr Sabry and Dr Wassar arrived and also Lord and Lady Carnarvon. It was such a treat to meet them and of course I had to have my photo taken.
The display panels look fabulous and I am sure people are going to get a lot out of visiting this house. Eventually there will be a replica tomb on the site. We wer given a sneak preview of the ghost of Howard Carter. With the aid of lights, screens, mirrors and glass an image of Carter appears and gives a talk about the discovery of the tomb with slides. It is really excellent, very cleverly done
Sunday, 1 November 2009
Symposium and Opening of the Carter House
I have just heard (thanks for finding out Sharon) that the event on 4th is open to the general public. There are lectures from 9-12 at the Mummification Museum, then the Carter House opening from 12-4 and then more lectures from 4-9. Lots of great speakers including Dr Zahi Hawass, Otto Schaden, Salima Ikram, Donald Ryan and Nicholas Reeves amongst others
Friday, 30 October 2009
Carter House Progress
I was at the site yesterday and things are really moving. Some of the original furnishings are waiting to be put in place including this wonderful thing. Harry Burton's camera. Isn't that just amazing to think he took all those pictures that are on the Griffiths institute website http://www.griffith.ox.ac.uk/ with this.
Wednesday, 28 October 2009
EEF INFORMATION, ARCHIVES & FAQ
EEF has moved home, this is the most massively useful forum for all EgyptologistsEEF INFORMATION, ARCHIVES & FAQ
Tuesday, 27 October 2009
Cairo Event but put a comment if you would like to see her in Luxor
The American University in Cairo
Sociology- Anthropology-Psychology-Egyptology
Cordially invites you to
Performance Storytelling: Myths and Stories from Ancient Egypt
Dr. Samira Kirollos
A renowned international master storyteller, who lives in London, will be performing four Ancient Egyptian stories
On
Saturday 7th November 2009
At 7:00 p.m.
Oriental Hall
AUC downtown campus
Sociology- Anthropology-Psychology-Egyptology
Cordially invites you to
Performance Storytelling: Myths and Stories from Ancient Egypt
Dr. Samira Kirollos
A renowned international master storyteller, who lives in London, will be performing four Ancient Egyptian stories
On
Saturday 7th November 2009
At 7:00 p.m.
Oriental Hall
AUC downtown campus
Monday, 26 October 2009
Request from British Embassy
If you are a British passport holder visiting or resident in Egypt please register with the Consular Section of the Embassy. To complete the LOCATE online consular registration form please go to https://www.locate.fco.gov.uk/locateportal/
It’s a very simple procedure and you can register your whereabouts up to 12 months in advance.
In the event of an emergency affecting British Nationals in Egypt those who have registered on LOCATE will be contacted directly by the British Embassy with guidance or instructions.
It’s a very simple procedure and you can register your whereabouts up to 12 months in advance.
In the event of an emergency affecting British Nationals in Egypt those who have registered on LOCATE will be contacted directly by the British Embassy with guidance or instructions.
Wednesday, 21 October 2009
Balloons are back
Inshahallah balloons will start flying over Luxor Sunday 25th October
Edited 25/10/09
it was canceled today but looking good for tomorrow
Edited 25/10/09
it was canceled today but looking good for tomorrow
Frances Anthon nee Lindsay
OK this is personal but I just felt it was appropriate. Dealing with Lady Carnarvon recently I was remind of my grandmother. She would have been so made up
Christmas 1964 I was visiting my grandmother Fanny Anthon. I was 9 years old and you know what it is like, it is not a child’s house and you are trying to find things they might enjoy to keep them quiet. Grandma give me a book on Tutankhamen, Christine Desroches Noblecourt’s book in fact, to read. Well I just loved it, in fact so much that on my 10th birthday 23rd March 1965 I was given book tokens and I used them to buy to the paperback for 12/6. bet that takes you back lol
Well Grandma died in 1982, 3 years after my first visit to Egypt, I kept a diary and sent it to her to read when I came back. I also bought her some Egyptian beads, terrible fakes but she loved them. However I did not know she left me such a tremendous legacy. My love for Egypt and a tiny note book that poignant records her love for Egypt and hopes that I might carry it on. It records some TV programs in 1972 50th anniversary of Tutankhamen’s discovery. Notes is her wonderful writing.
When I cleared out my father effects when he died I found them, on the back was this.
Why they were never passed on to me at the time I don’t know. But Grandma they were not burnt. But there are now here with me in Luxor, Egypt. In the same place that the ashes of your son Alec Anthon are scattered in the Valley of the Kings. Thank you Grandma for given me such a wonderful interest.
Christmas 1964 I was visiting my grandmother Fanny Anthon. I was 9 years old and you know what it is like, it is not a child’s house and you are trying to find things they might enjoy to keep them quiet. Grandma give me a book on Tutankhamen, Christine Desroches Noblecourt’s book in fact, to read. Well I just loved it, in fact so much that on my 10th birthday 23rd March 1965 I was given book tokens and I used them to buy to the paperback for 12/6. bet that takes you back lol
Well Grandma died in 1982, 3 years after my first visit to Egypt, I kept a diary and sent it to her to read when I came back. I also bought her some Egyptian beads, terrible fakes but she loved them. However I did not know she left me such a tremendous legacy. My love for Egypt and a tiny note book that poignant records her love for Egypt and hopes that I might carry it on. It records some TV programs in 1972 50th anniversary of Tutankhamen’s discovery. Notes is her wonderful writing.
When I cleared out my father effects when he died I found them, on the back was this.
Why they were never passed on to me at the time I don’t know. But Grandma they were not burnt. But there are now here with me in Luxor, Egypt. In the same place that the ashes of your son Alec Anthon are scattered in the Valley of the Kings. Thank you Grandma for given me such a wonderful interest.
Tuesday, 20 October 2009
BBC iPlayer - Show Me the Mummy
Check this out, not only a Luxor mummy but my prof. Yes Rosalie David head of Manchester. She gave us an exclusive preview at the end of the last academic year in a video lecture. Being on the Manchester course gives you such wonderful opportunities. BBC iPlayer - Show Me the Mummy you have just 6 days and need to be in the Uk or use a proxy.
Kick-Off Ceremony for USAID-supported Antiquities Project In Luxor
I attended the Kick Off Ceremony for the West Bank Groundwater Lowering Project which took place next to the Ramasseum Temple in Luxor today at 10.30. The project is the result of co-operation between the US Agency for International Development(USAID), the National Organization for potable Water and Sanitary Drainage (NOPWASD), the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA) and the Supreme Council of Luxor City.
In attendance was USAID/Egypt Director Hilda M Arellano, President of the Supreme council of Luxor Dr Samir Farag, Chairman of the National Organisation for potable Water and Sanitary Drainage NOPWASD, eng Hassan Khaled Fadl and Head of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, Upper Egypt, Mansour Boraik together with other Egyptian dignitaries and officials from foreign missions working on antiquities in Luxor.
The ceremony marks the commencement of the construction of a sophisticated drainage system that will decrease ground water levels in the area, thereby protecting five major sites and approximately twenty small temples. Drainage pipes will collect water from the south temple of Medinet Habu to the pump station at the Ramasseum and from the north temple of Seti also to the pump station. This will then be pumped into the Asfun Canal. This technique was piloted at Karnak and Luxor temples with great success.
Christian le Blanc, seen here, is one of the many archaeologists that will be affected by this work, he is working at the Ramasseum but it will also benefit Ray Johnson and his team from Chicago House, also present, who are working at Medinet Habu and many other teams.
Really sorry, my fault
How I got 75th anniversary I don't know 2009-1922 is 87. Must have been a senior moment.
Monday, 19 October 2009
Carter House Restoration and Dewatering on the West Bank
Just got a great update from Ray Johnson of Chicago House. There is an inauguration of the dewatering project tomorrow, yes we all know it was started long ago but this is the official inauguration by the head of US Aid. There are two gravitational drains one starting at Medinet Habu and the other at Seti I temple. They both lead to a pumping station near the Ramasseum, this will then collect the water and pump it into the irrigation canal. They are hoping this will halt the destruction of the monuments. It is critical as the repair work at Medinet Habu is almost being destroyed as quickly as they make it. Chicago House will be starting work this week at their various sites.
Meanwhile yours truly has been continuing to help out at the Carter House restoration. I have been liaising between Lady Carnarvon and Dr Hany el Miniaw the architect in charge of the restoration. Lady Carnarvon is providing a number of display boards with some really atmospheric photos of the house, the two men Carter and Carnarvon and the history of their working relationship. I was over yesterday and today and took some photos of progress so far. The grand opening is the 4th November the 75th (correction 87th) anniversary of the discovery of the first step that ultimately led to the tomb of Tutankhamen. It is such a privilege to be in Luxor at this time and to have a small part in the work. I am a very lucky girl
Sunday, 11 October 2009
"The Asyut Project": Eine Grabung in Mittelägypten/An excavation in Middle Egypt
I had a great day out on Saturday at a conference in Sohag. getting there from Luxor is a bit of a challenge but so worth it. I actually drove down the day before and stayed the night in a really nice hotel in Sohag. Nile Hotel 4* on the corniche. Lovely location, I really recommend the hotel if you want a weekend on the Nile without hassle.
The conference was at Sohag University just down the road. It was a full day program
Two documentary films by Ammar Abu Bakr
Jochem Kahl :Asyut Project
Mahmoud El-Khadragy: Nomarchs of First Intermediate Period and early Middle Kingdom
Sameh Shafik:Ephigraphic Work
Ursula Verhoeven:New Kingdom Graffitti in tomb N13.1
Meike Becker:Reconstruction of Tomb II
Monika Zoller-Engelhardt:Wooden Models
Andrea Kilian:Offering plates
Magdalena Patolla:Human bones from the tombs of the Old Kingdom
Ahmed Elkhatib:Historic Plant Records
Abdel Nasser Yassin:Islamic Pottery
I am now a complete fan of the First Intermediate Period, the team have a website in English as well as German
"The Asyut Project": Eine Grabung in Mittelägypten/An excavation in Middle Egypt
The conference was at Sohag University just down the road. It was a full day program
Two documentary films by Ammar Abu Bakr
Jochem Kahl :Asyut Project
Mahmoud El-Khadragy: Nomarchs of First Intermediate Period and early Middle Kingdom
Sameh Shafik:Ephigraphic Work
Ursula Verhoeven:New Kingdom Graffitti in tomb N13.1
Meike Becker:Reconstruction of Tomb II
Monika Zoller-Engelhardt:Wooden Models
Andrea Kilian:Offering plates
Magdalena Patolla:Human bones from the tombs of the Old Kingdom
Ahmed Elkhatib:Historic Plant Records
Abdel Nasser Yassin:Islamic Pottery
I am now a complete fan of the First Intermediate Period, the team have a website in English as well as German
"The Asyut Project": Eine Grabung in Mittelägypten/An excavation in Middle Egypt
Saturday, 10 October 2009
AFP: France to return stolen relics to Egypt
Zahi wins!!!!!!!!!!!!!!AFP: France to return stolen relics to Egypt
Wednesday, 7 October 2009
French and Zahi in head to head
Lourve Museum in talks over 5 stolen Luxor paintings
Just last year we were given a lecture about a noble tomb that had a scene hacked out back in the 1960's. Obviously stuff bought back in the distant past is immune but these more recent artifacts are frankly completely illegal and should be returned. Luxor wants its nobles tombs back
Just last year we were given a lecture about a noble tomb that had a scene hacked out back in the 1960's. Obviously stuff bought back in the distant past is immune but these more recent artifacts are frankly completely illegal and should be returned. Luxor wants its nobles tombs back
Tuesday, 6 October 2009
KV63 Update
From Roxanne Wilson
A new update is available on the KV-63 website (www.KV-63.com)
The update is rather substantial and includes:
• Dr. Schaden’s newest Dig Diary
• A list of new KV-63 articles and publications
• Details on the upcoming Howard Carter Symposium where Dr. Otto Schaden, Professor Earl Ertman and Dr. Salima Ikram will be presenting papers
• Information on ‘Tutankhamun: The Latest Discovery in the Valley of the Kings and the Egyptological Art of Susan Osgood’ (OI/Chicago House & KV-63 Artist)
• 30 new images…. including some never before seen
• and A Special Commentary on the Menkheperre Seal by Dr. Otto Schaden. A mud seal bearing the cartouche of Menkheperre (Thutmosis III).
A new update is available on the KV-63 website (www.KV-63.com)
The update is rather substantial and includes:
• Dr. Schaden’s newest Dig Diary
• A list of new KV-63 articles and publications
• Details on the upcoming Howard Carter Symposium where Dr. Otto Schaden, Professor Earl Ertman and Dr. Salima Ikram will be presenting papers
• Information on ‘Tutankhamun: The Latest Discovery in the Valley of the Kings and the Egyptological Art of Susan Osgood’ (OI/Chicago House & KV-63 Artist)
• 30 new images…. including some never before seen
• and A Special Commentary on the Menkheperre Seal by Dr. Otto Schaden. A mud seal bearing the cartouche of Menkheperre (Thutmosis III).
Monday, 5 October 2009
Ramases III tomb has reopened.
Received from one of my readers, thank you Gérard
Just to let you know that Ramases III tomb has reopened from today.
My recommendation to visitors to Luxor if you want to under Ancient Egypt better and specifically Ramases III do this
- Start the visit in East Bank, Luxor visiting Karnak and particullary the Chapels of Ramses III
- Go to the West Bank, visit Medinet Habu to see his Temple of a Million Years
- Go to Queen's Valley and visit the tombs of one of his wives and two of his children
- Finish by visiting his tomb in the King's Valley.
Sunday, 4 October 2009
Helie & Hels Franklin / Bailey is fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Support - JustGiving
Helie & Hels Franklin / Bailey is fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Support - JustGivingHelen, my friend from Luxor, is undergoing treatment for breast cancer back in the UK and has decided to do a bike ride for MacMillan Cancer Support. This is a charity I have personally benefited from when my late husband Ayman Akshar had cancer. They provided financial advice about benefits, family counseling, books to help explain it to my young daughter and even aromatherapy for me. So I think this is a very worth while cause. Please support them if you can.
Thursday, 1 October 2009
BBC iPlayer - In Our Time: Akhenaten
BBC iPlayer - In Our Time: Akhenaten Very interesting program on our 'favourite' Pharaoh available for 7 days so listen quick
Monday, 28 September 2009
Which one is the Carter House?
Yes I have been confused for years as well, various drivers and guides will tell you as you enter the road leading to the Valley of the Kings that the house you can see is the Carter House. I hope my photo makes it clear. The one at the very top of the hill is the Stopplaere House and below is an excellent description. Also on this website you can find many photos.
http://www.archnet.org/library/sites/one-site.jsp?site_id=3749
"The Stopplaere House, which dates from the year after New Gourna was completed, was designed as both a guest house for the Department of Antiquities and the headquarters and apartment of Dr. Alexander Stopplaere who was the chief restorer of the Department at that time. The architect's drawings of the house, which went through several revisions, all convey the difficulty of combining these two diverse entities into one, showing how the architect was struggling with the duality of functions involved.
The first scheme he attempted uses a square plan to group both sectors around two perfectly balanced parallel courtyards that are divided by a bisecting wall. The demands of a ridge-like, linear site, however, which is strategically located at the summit of a step ridge overlooking the main entrance into the Valley of the Kings and Queens at Luxor, eventually forced the opening up of the plan into an elongated rectangle. A skylit gallery, of a kind that first appeared in the Hamid Said house, is used to join both sides of the residence, and the bisecting wall of the original concept finally emerges as a fully expressed buttress in the finished building, effectively separating the main entrance and its garden from the private quarters of Dr. Stopplaere.
In spite of the fact that no "as-built" drawings for this project exist, the small collection of initial sketches that have survived provide a rare insight into the creative thought processes of the architect, and show how actual site conditions began to inform a beginning design idea. The photographs of the actual building are equally important in that they include interior views of both the rooms and the courtyards. As is the case with so many of Fathy's surviving works today, access into the Stopplaere house is now very restricted, which gives these interior views added significance."
The house in the grove of tree at the bottom is the Carter House, so called Castle Carter 2. He had previously had a house at Medinet Habu called Castle Carter 1. According to TGH James in the winter of 1910/11
“Carter had by them been working for Carnarvon for two seasons and it must have become clear to both that there was to be a future in their association….A gesture in the direction of putting down roots in Thebes, presumably with an eye to future work, was the building by Carter of Castle Carter II. It was designed by himself along vernacular line – solid, roomy, four square, with a central hall with a dome…. In no time he would be receiving guests, there was much to be admired ‘Carter has built himself a delightful house at the north end of the necropolis and moves in soon’ (Weigall): ‘Theo and I had a charming afternoon with Mr Carter in his new house – so well built and arranged and pretty – it looked like the abode of an artist and scholar (Mrs Andrews); By noon we had reached the new house that Carter had built for himself… and it being very warm, we determined to call upon Carter and take drinks off him. I was glad to have an opportunity of looking over his house, which is delightful, simple mud walls, not rendered conspicuous by any plaster, very little furniture but what there is artistic (Gardiner).”. Many years later after the discovery and clearance of the tomb it would be described
“ very comfortable, a house much above the standard of field bases and of frequent champagne”also taken from James’s excellent biography of Carter.
Today when I was at the site the architect Dr Hany was showing me photos of various pieces of furniture that had been left in the house and which he intends to restore to their former glory. He was also much struck by the wooden electrical fittings which are ideal for what is available in Luxor, the climate and the times. The work is proceeding at a tremendous pace and the house is already looking much nicer than its neglected state shown here in my photos http://luxor-news.blogspot.com/2009/08/dr-zahi-hawass-visits-luxor-part-1.html
Sunday, 27 September 2009
Urgent Request for help, interior photos of the Carter House
You may remember this article http://luxor-news.blogspot.com/2009/08/dr-zahi-hawass-visits-luxor-part-1.html.
I have just had a visit from Hany El Miniawy who is the architect in charge of restoring the Carter House, he was asking for help with interiors. Can anyone point me at any photos of the actual Carter house, interiors only or typical dig interiors from that period.
I have just had a visit from Hany El Miniawy who is the architect in charge of restoring the Carter House, he was asking for help with interiors. Can anyone point me at any photos of the actual Carter house, interiors only or typical dig interiors from that period.
Saturday, 26 September 2009
New theory on Tutankamun's parents but will Zahi back it?
Heads up from one of my readers who attended a recent lecture. Apparently for the last 6 months, Zahi Hawass has been scanning and taking DNA from mummies. And he is going to make a big announcement this month about Tutankhamen's parents.
The lecturer in question gave an interesting theory on who he believes to be Tutankhamen's parents. - Amenhotep III and Queen Sitamun. Claiming that Akhenaton was actually his brother! It was all based on a co-regency theory, and it also backs up the inscriptions that were from Tutankhamen-claiming that Amenhotep was his father.
Anyone got any more details or any comments!!!!! (Stands back and puts on flame proof suit)
The lecturer in question gave an interesting theory on who he believes to be Tutankhamen's parents. - Amenhotep III and Queen Sitamun. Claiming that Akhenaton was actually his brother! It was all based on a co-regency theory, and it also backs up the inscriptions that were from Tutankhamen-claiming that Amenhotep was his father.
Anyone got any more details or any comments!!!!! (Stands back and puts on flame proof suit)
Wednesday, 23 September 2009
Warning - no photos/cameras in Valley of Kings
Just had a guest return from the Valley of Kings today and absolutely no photos. she is a savvy girl and went to the inspectorate who she knows and they confirmed. So be warned
Thursday, 17 September 2009
John Sherman - new ARCE Associate Director
John Sherman has just been appointed the new Associate Director for ARCE (American Research Center in Egypt). He has promised me an interview when he arrives so I will be able to update you on their plans in Luxor
Wednesday, 16 September 2009
Exclusive Interview: Dr Zahi Hawass in Indianapolis | Heritage Key
Good Bye Zahi Hawass. He has confirmed his retirement here. I for one will miss him I think he has done a fantastic job to raise the profile of EGYPTIAN Egyptology. Also Inspectors here have much more pride in their work and opportunities for training. Exclusive Interview: Dr Zahi Hawass in Indianapolis | Heritage Key
Monday, 14 September 2009
Think Like a User - tips for creating effective websites
Think Like a User - tips for creating effective websites I am sure you are thinking what on earth has this got to do with Egyptology, Absolutely nothing at all but it is the new business venture of my best friend, Colette Mason, who did my original website all those years ago. With a Goggle page ranked 5 blog any links I put up really count so it is the least I can do for the best web designer I know. What she is doing is passing on the tricks of her trade and how she makes successful websites and all those SEO tips to drive up your page ranking and get you in the search engines. Really important stuff for anyone setting up in business.
Friday, 11 September 2009
Swimming Hieroglyphic
A bit of fun sent to me by our friends at Maat Productions http://www.maat.com.au. They organise group trips to Egypt from Australia and are going to be staying at my flats. They sent me this as a suggestion for my swimming pool.
Thursday, 10 September 2009
New Excavations starting next Saturday at Luxor Temple
Mansour Boraik informaed me today that they are going to start excavating the tell or mound behind the Pasha's house. It is the last part of medieval Luxor apart from the mosque inside the temple and very important. He expects the excavations to last about 6 months, it will be very interesting to see what they dig up.
He also gave me some information about the house next door. Apparently it will stay while the occupants are living.
He also gave me some information about the house next door. Apparently it will stay while the occupants are living.
Tuesday, 8 September 2009
Update from Ray Johnson of Chicago House
I recently got an email from Ray Johnson. You have to admire Chicago House for making all their publications available online.
I have spent almost all of my summer with my team proofing and printing our latest volume, 'OIP 136, Medinet Habu IX, The Eighteenth Dynasty Temple Part 1, the Inner Sanctuaries.'
I am proofreading the text booklet now. It's going to be a big one! 3 inches thick and 25 pounds (groan!). But at the same time it will be available for free PDF download from the Oriental Institute Publications web site, along with everything else we have ever published. Most of the Egyptian titles are available now - check it out! We are tremendously excited about this wonderful program that will make everything we have ever done available to everyone free!
Thursday, 3 September 2009
More photos of the Pasha's House
There were two of these colonial style buildings side by side. There photos were taken today as you can see the one that was the party head quarters has almost gone. the other is still standing, but who knows for how long.
Gurna, Ramla, the foreigners cemetery, the new Heritage Centre, mosques, churches and many, many houses are being demolished all over Luxor. Can nothing be done?
Gurna, Ramla, the foreigners cemetery, the new Heritage Centre, mosques, churches and many, many houses are being demolished all over Luxor. Can nothing be done?
Tuesday, 1 September 2009
Devastating News about the Pasha's house
Edited, here is a pictures as requested
I was driving back from the airport last night and saw they have started attacking the wonderful old houses on the corniche by Luxor temple. Today I got this email
I wish there was something I could say, I am gutted, I loved those houses. They are destroying Luxor and making it into Disney land.
I was driving back from the airport last night and saw they have started attacking the wonderful old houses on the corniche by Luxor temple. Today I got this email
Dear Jane,
I found your address on your website while searching articles related to my grandfather (Yassa [Pasha] Andraos)'s house in Luxor. I noticed from your blog that you are very interested in Luxor news.
I write to you in despair, as my family have learned that in spite of all the legal procedures and judgements in our favour, Mr. Samir Farag has started to demolish my grandfather's house. You may not know that prior to being occupied by the National Democratic Party and the 'Niyaba Idariya', this house witnessed historical events, from receiving Saad Zaghloul - who could only go to that house since my grandfather was the honorary consul of Italy and therefore had diplomatic immunity -, to being visited by kings and queens from all over the world.
Moreover, the house as you may well know is of architectural interest, as per the book 'Egypt: the Living Past', TGH James; photographs by Graham Harrison, London: British Museum Press in association with the Egyptian State Information Service, 1992, page 146. It is considered a national historic patrimony, according to the authorities (hay'at al tansiq al hadary).
How come the head of Luxor City has the freedom to destroy our history even against the law and judgements made by the Egyptian Court? Is Luxor's history limited to Ancient Egypt or is it also history through the ages?
Is there anything you know about all this? I know for sure that the Andraos house is not in the way of the Karnak-Luxor project, so what is it? Religion? Another blow to the once 'pashas' so hated by Nasser (to whom Farag is incidentally related by marriage)? I would feel better if I could understand. I thought we had a respected judicial system but it seems to me that almighty centres of power are still more effective in my country!
Best regards,
Leila Henein
I wish there was something I could say, I am gutted, I loved those houses. They are destroying Luxor and making it into Disney land.
A big thank you to all my readers
and especially to those people that have clicked on the Google Ads. I have just received my first payment, once you get to $100 USD they pay you. Ok it took 6 months but still it is a very nice little bonus. I have to pay my university fees this month so that will definately help.
Thursday, 27 August 2009
Luxor's Marathon
Put February 12th in your diaries as this is the date on Luxor's Marathon. Full details are on the website www.EgyptianMarathon.net. It is a fantastic route going all round the West Bank of Luxor, runners and temples all mixed in.
Tuesday, 18 August 2009
Dr Zahi Hawass visits Luxor – part 3 Mosque of Abu Haggag
The last stop on Dr Zahi Hawass tour of Luxor was the formal opening of the renovated mosque. We left the temple of Hatshepsut and proceed to the Nile and Ibrahim Soliman was waiting for us with motor boats which took us across the Nile. A short walk to Luxor temple and he escorted us through the temple as a short cut to the mosque. There was a formal reception with a video describing the renovations. Then we proceed in to the mosque, there was a huge surge of men going into the left hand side of the mosque to the rhythmic chanting of the men. It was a powerful and emotional scene. I snuck round the right-hand side and took some photos. I do encourage you to visit this mosque it is really interesting and you will be very welcome. Avoid prayer times obviously. Back in Dec 2007 I visited the mosque when the renovations had just started. I think the pictures speak for themselves I have tried to match the shots.
Dr Zahi Hawass visits Luxor part 2 - Hatshepsut
After weeks and weeks of little news suddenly I have lots to report. Dr Zahi Hawass visit to Luxor was a definite highlight this month. One of the stops on his journey was the temple of Hatshepsut. He was there to officially open the visitors centre at the site and the review the first trials of the lightening system for the Theban necropolis.
The visitor centre has some pictures of the site, a terrific model of the entire site reconstructed with both Montuhotep, Tutmosis II and Hatshepsut temple shown in detail. They used the flat platform reconstruction of the Montuhotep temple. I did get a photo but the reflections of the overhead lights spoiled it. It was official opened with the unveiling of a plaque. Then a short film was shown describing the site, Dr Samir and Dr Zafi are seated in the front row and Dr Sabry is beside them and then we explored the site.
Finally we took the tuff tuff, little train to view the effect of the first stage of the flood lightening of the West Bank. Luckily I was sitting next to Mansour Boraik and managed to get a bit of information. It is planned that the entire West Bank will be lit and tourists will be able to visit. They need to get security sorted out as well as the lights and he expects to have the sites open in the New Year. Wow!!
I have already published my picture of the lights, which was just taken on a camera phone, but I like it so much you can have it again :)
The visitor centre has some pictures of the site, a terrific model of the entire site reconstructed with both Montuhotep, Tutmosis II and Hatshepsut temple shown in detail. They used the flat platform reconstruction of the Montuhotep temple. I did get a photo but the reflections of the overhead lights spoiled it. It was official opened with the unveiling of a plaque. Then a short film was shown describing the site, Dr Samir and Dr Zafi are seated in the front row and Dr Sabry is beside them and then we explored the site.
Finally we took the tuff tuff, little train to view the effect of the first stage of the flood lightening of the West Bank. Luckily I was sitting next to Mansour Boraik and managed to get a bit of information. It is planned that the entire West Bank will be lit and tourists will be able to visit. They need to get security sorted out as well as the lights and he expects to have the sites open in the New Year. Wow!!
I have already published my picture of the lights, which was just taken on a camera phone, but I like it so much you can have it again :)
Dr Zahi Hawass visits Luxor part 1 – Carter House
On the West Bank on the round about that leads to the valley of kings there is a mud brick house which was used by Howard Carter when he was excavating there. It was built around 1910 as there are commemorative bricks with that date. It is not the house on the hill but at ground level. For many, many years there have been rumours that it was going to be made into a museum about the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamen but nothing seem to happen.
Well all that is changing, as you can see from the above plan there is an ambitious plan to redevelop the entire area and to refurbish the Carter House at the same time. If you look at the detail plan you can read in English the description of the various rooms, it looks as though it is going to a very interesting visitor centre.
It is being driven by this man who when I asked his name told me he was a Major General. Apparently if you are a General for 3 years you become a Major General and he has been a General for 6 years, so I ended up calling him Major, Major General and never found out his real name. He is driving the project forward big time and expects to have it finished by 4th November otherwise as we would say ‘heads will roll’. He certainly seemed to have a lot of power as my driver translated some of his conversation for me and he was defiantly barking out orders. The army will be brought in and they will work round the clock.
The house is in a shabby and dilapidated state but the architect Hany El Miniawy has done projects like this before. Try Googling on his name and you will be very impressed, he is a top notch guy.
He has to turn this
in to this
Quite a task considering its present state, I asked him if he was worried about ground water issues on this mud brick development if they landscape and this needs watering. He proceed to blind me with science but it was obvious he knew what he was talking about and had taken that in to consideration. Apparently the building is made of heba or green bricks, green referring to their maturity rather than their colour, on a good foundation. The water table is far away and the building itself will be protected.
So we were ready for our big wigs to arrive. First Dr Zahi Hawass came and the architect spent some time with him explaining the various stages.
Then Dr Zahi was interviewed by the media, sadly everything was in Arabic but there are lots of details on Dr Zahi Hawass’s website http://www.drhawass.com/blog/press-release-new-developments-luxor.
Lastly Dr Samir Farag, the governor of Luxor arrived to be shown the site. Then we all raced of to Hatshepsut’s temple …… more of Dr Zahi's visit to come when we go to Hatshepsut and the mosque of Abu Haggag
Well all that is changing, as you can see from the above plan there is an ambitious plan to redevelop the entire area and to refurbish the Carter House at the same time. If you look at the detail plan you can read in English the description of the various rooms, it looks as though it is going to a very interesting visitor centre.
It is being driven by this man who when I asked his name told me he was a Major General. Apparently if you are a General for 3 years you become a Major General and he has been a General for 6 years, so I ended up calling him Major, Major General and never found out his real name. He is driving the project forward big time and expects to have it finished by 4th November otherwise as we would say ‘heads will roll’. He certainly seemed to have a lot of power as my driver translated some of his conversation for me and he was defiantly barking out orders. The army will be brought in and they will work round the clock.
The house is in a shabby and dilapidated state but the architect Hany El Miniawy has done projects like this before. Try Googling on his name and you will be very impressed, he is a top notch guy.
He has to turn this
in to this
Quite a task considering its present state, I asked him if he was worried about ground water issues on this mud brick development if they landscape and this needs watering. He proceed to blind me with science but it was obvious he knew what he was talking about and had taken that in to consideration. Apparently the building is made of heba or green bricks, green referring to their maturity rather than their colour, on a good foundation. The water table is far away and the building itself will be protected.
So we were ready for our big wigs to arrive. First Dr Zahi Hawass came and the architect spent some time with him explaining the various stages.
Then Dr Zahi was interviewed by the media, sadly everything was in Arabic but there are lots of details on Dr Zahi Hawass’s website http://www.drhawass.com/blog/press-release-new-developments-luxor.
Lastly Dr Samir Farag, the governor of Luxor arrived to be shown the site. Then we all raced of to Hatshepsut’s temple …… more of Dr Zahi's visit to come when we go to Hatshepsut and the mosque of Abu Haggag
Monday, 17 August 2009
Dr Zahi Hawas opens Hatshepsut visitor centre
First a photo to follow yesterday's post of the floodlighting of the West Bank. I have lots more information about this, also the visit of Dr Zahi Hawass and Dr Samir Farg to three sites tonight. First the Carter House to talk with the architect about the proposed restoration of the house and redevelopment the area into a museum and vistor centre.
Then the temple of Hatshepsut to officially open the visitors centre and view the new lighting.
Lastly a reception and the opening the mosque of Abu Haggag after its wonderful restoration
But this is a trailer because I am too tired to do the posts tonight, I am sorry. But I have lots of photos and information for tomorrow
Sunday, 16 August 2009
Lights over Luxor
I live on the West Bank facing the Theban Hills with the Valley of Kings and temple of Hatshepsut. Tonight we are all looking at the skyline as the entire Theban necropolis is floodlit. It is absolutely fantastic.
Ibrahim Soliman also phoned told me about this and that the renovated mosque in Luxor temple is being opened by Dr Zahi Hawass tomorrow.
Ibrahim Soliman also phoned told me about this and that the renovated mosque in Luxor temple is being opened by Dr Zahi Hawass tomorrow.
Tuesday, 11 August 2009
Monday, 10 August 2009
Coptic Egypt
I recently had a prof staying at the flats in Luxor (who incidently wrote a brill review on Trip Advisor). He was studying Coptic graffitti and we joked a lot between us about Pharaonic Egyptologists not liking anything past 1000BC.
He is studying all over Egypt but while he was here visited Deir el Bahri, Deir el Medina, KV2, Kharga and Abydos.
So to prove I am not prejudiced at all here is some Coptic information courtsey of Lyn Green
The Canadian Society for Coptic Studies
The Canadian Society for Coptic Studies/La Société Canadienne pour les Études Coptes (CSCS/SCEC), incorporated as a non-profit organization on May 29, 2009, has as its purpose the bringing together individuals interested in Coptic studies; and the dissemination of scholarly information on Coptic studies through the organization of meetings and conferences and through the preparation of scholarly works for publication.
The CSCS/SCEC is affiliated with the University of Toronto, and St. Mark's Coptic Museum http://www.copticmuseum-canada.org. The Dept. of Near & Middle Eastern Civilizations at the U. of Toronto has already presented two Coptic Symposia, featuring scholars from Egypt, Canada and elsewhere and has initiated a programme of Coptic Studies http://www.utoronto.ca/nmc/courses/undergrad_coptic.htm.
For more information contact: Dr. Helene Moussa
He is studying all over Egypt but while he was here visited Deir el Bahri, Deir el Medina, KV2, Kharga and Abydos.
So to prove I am not prejudiced at all here is some Coptic information courtsey of Lyn Green
The Canadian Society for Coptic Studies
The Canadian Society for Coptic Studies/La Société Canadienne pour les Études Coptes (CSCS/SCEC), incorporated as a non-profit organization on May 29, 2009, has as its purpose the bringing together individuals interested in Coptic studies; and the dissemination of scholarly information on Coptic studies through the organization of meetings and conferences and through the preparation of scholarly works for publication.
The CSCS/SCEC is affiliated with the University of Toronto, and St. Mark's Coptic Museum http://www.copticmuseum-canada.org. The Dept. of Near & Middle Eastern Civilizations at the U. of Toronto has already presented two Coptic Symposia, featuring scholars from Egypt, Canada and elsewhere and has initiated a programme of Coptic Studies http://www.utoronto.ca/nmc/courses/undergrad_coptic.htm.
For more information contact: Dr. Helene Moussa
Friday, 7 August 2009
Balloons back soon! - Luxor Forum - TripAdvisor
Balloons back soon! - Luxor Forum - TripAdvisor: "Hi Everybody
Jan who posted this has good friends in the balloon industry in Luxor and has been keeping Trip Advisor readers uptodate so her information is generally pretty good
Just in case people aren't following the old thread on this topic, I've put in a new heading to catch your attention. My contact today says that the CAA?MOD have okayed them to start flying again within the next week. They hope that means by early next week - hoping that the CAA doesn't change its mind yet again. They'll all be using the same take-off site which is what the CAA wants - and they still don't know if they'll be limited to fewer flights per day than before. And the prices are likely to be a little bit higher in order to pay for all the lost time, fees to the CAA etc.
Let's just hope it's really going to happen finally...
Jan, the balloon pilot"
Jan who posted this has good friends in the balloon industry in Luxor and has been keeping Trip Advisor readers uptodate so her information is generally pretty good
Wednesday, 5 August 2009
Arkwrights New Deli Counter
Arkwrights the English supermarket in St Josephs street has just opened a new deli counter with a superb range of cheese and cold meats. I am really pleased to say that since this shop opened it has gone from strength to strength. Standards have not slipped at all. Well done to Angie, Yassar and the staff
Friday, 31 July 2009
Theban tomb tracings made by Norman and Nina de Garis Davies
Theban tomb tracings made by Norman and Nina de Garis Davies
The Griffith Institute have made these pencil tracings available online
The Griffith Institute have made these pencil tracings available online
Sunday, 26 July 2009
Duck Racing on the Nile
The exclusive unveiling of the newest tourist attraction in Luxor, the video says it all
Monday, 20 July 2009
Seti I replica tomb
Do you remember this old post of mine
Well the wife of the same ex guest was commenting about the proposed Seti I replica
Laser Scanning
I has a fascinating chat with a guest who used to work at Liverpool Conservation Centre. Apparently laser scanning is so good nowadays that they can use it to make 3-d records of objects and then reproduce them. a while ago the Polish team at the temple of Hatshepsut asked for a plaster copy of a piece of Hatshepsut’s temple that was in the museum. Rather than do this they were able reproduce in limestone a perfect copy of the piece in question.
The possibilities of this are endless here in Luxor.
Also they could scan all the pieces currently on mastabas scattered all over Luxor and put them on computer where they could be matched together. the cost of this equipment is not cheap but when you think of how quickly it could record scenes, especially those in danger from water damage it seems it would be worthwhile. There is also software available that removes damage and makes the surface look like new so reconstructions of the original could be made.
Does anyone know why the missions out here don’t use this. Could someone like the Getty institute fund this and all the missions have access. I know a lot of the teams read my blog so I would love some comments on this.
February 26th, 2006
Well the wife of the same ex guest was commenting about the proposed Seti I replica
“Saw the planned replica tombs - it's taken long enough, the Seti conference was in 2002! Do you remember John's colleague Steve went out and did sample scans of Seti. It is the same firm Factum Arte who are doing them now.”.The company has a website and a big piece about the Seti project http://www.factum-arte.com/eng/conservacion/seti/seti_en.asp
Saturday, 18 July 2009
Visiting Egypt during Ramadan
Ramadan is a great time to visit a Muslim country. don't forget Egypt isn't just about antiquities but also about the people and the culture. Over 80% of the population are Muslims the rest being Coptic Christians and even the most lax and laid back make a special effort during Ramadan
Effects on tourist visiting sites - none what so ever, drink what you like, eat what you like, smoke what you like. I think it is nice not to smoke in a car when the driver is fasting but actually I think it nice not to smoke in a car full stop. Some drivers are very macho about their fasting and like to show how strong willed they are.
Effects on tourist in hotels - none what so ever, often the Christian staff do day time and Muslims night so don't assume everyone you see is fasting
Availability of alcohol - reduced during Ramadan although this is generally sold by Christians it does stop during Ramadan and strict Muslims will not handle it. 5* hotels are not affected.
Effects on tourists non tourist sites, banks, etc these often keep different hours during Ramadan generally closing for Iftar (the sunset meal) so just remember to go early in the day
Effects on tourists traveling, if you have a private driver and are traveling at sunset do suggest he stops to break his fast otherwise no effect what so ever
Interesting things to see
those better off supply food for Iftar in the streets for the poor, it is quite amazing seeing all these roadside camps, you may be offered something there is no problem accepting, just have a couple of dates
family meals, if you get invited to Iftar go, some of the meals are fabulous, the best cooking happens at this time, they try and break the fast with dates
all the old TV programs get recycled, some have subtitles but anyway it is fun to watch the over the top dramas
the mad race on the roads to get home for Iftar and the dead silence on the roads during Iftar
the lanterns, lights, flags and paper mosques put up by the children to decorate their homes
everyone in the country united in celebrating a religious event. This is the aspect I love. Everywhere you go being offered good wishes, people supporting each other, the children excited doing their first fast (they start off doing half a day fasts and it is a big event). Not everyone fasts, sick people, nursing mother and small children do not.
So don't be put off visiting because it is Ramadan, join in the celebrations
Effects on tourist visiting sites - none what so ever, drink what you like, eat what you like, smoke what you like. I think it is nice not to smoke in a car when the driver is fasting but actually I think it nice not to smoke in a car full stop. Some drivers are very macho about their fasting and like to show how strong willed they are.
Effects on tourist in hotels - none what so ever, often the Christian staff do day time and Muslims night so don't assume everyone you see is fasting
Availability of alcohol - reduced during Ramadan although this is generally sold by Christians it does stop during Ramadan and strict Muslims will not handle it. 5* hotels are not affected.
Effects on tourists non tourist sites, banks, etc these often keep different hours during Ramadan generally closing for Iftar (the sunset meal) so just remember to go early in the day
Effects on tourists traveling, if you have a private driver and are traveling at sunset do suggest he stops to break his fast otherwise no effect what so ever
Interesting things to see
those better off supply food for Iftar in the streets for the poor, it is quite amazing seeing all these roadside camps, you may be offered something there is no problem accepting, just have a couple of dates
family meals, if you get invited to Iftar go, some of the meals are fabulous, the best cooking happens at this time, they try and break the fast with dates
all the old TV programs get recycled, some have subtitles but anyway it is fun to watch the over the top dramas
the mad race on the roads to get home for Iftar and the dead silence on the roads during Iftar
the lanterns, lights, flags and paper mosques put up by the children to decorate their homes
everyone in the country united in celebrating a religious event. This is the aspect I love. Everywhere you go being offered good wishes, people supporting each other, the children excited doing their first fast (they start off doing half a day fasts and it is a big event). Not everyone fasts, sick people, nursing mother and small children do not.
So don't be put off visiting because it is Ramadan, join in the celebrations
Friday, 17 July 2009
New Sound and Light Show at Karnak Temple
I went to the new show and have to be brutally honest. I really enjoyed it. I know it is kitsch and some of the facts are completely inaccurate (Tutankhamen was not Akhenaton’s brother) but the whole feel is still as magical for me as when I saw the old show back in 1979.
The sound track has been updated, obviously I am just going on memory but I reckon about 30% of the track is new. The lightening updates are really good.
Regular readers of this blog may remember years ago I conducted a survey on behalf of Mansour Boraik on whether there should be a screen at Karnak to enable laser displays. My readers overwhelming voted no and Mansour was able to use the statistics in discussion with the Sound and Light company. The result of this is they have used the walls of the monument to projection the slides onto and it works really well. They still have the processional bit of the show and as you stand in the first court they project images and hieroglyphs on the gateway of the second pylon.
The 'holy of holies' also has been highlight with a red laser light. When you sit on the benches at the end they screen the display on the walls of the court de cache, the back of the first pylon and the eight pylon. Also the scared lake has floating lights. I was with some guests who had seen the old show and agreed with me the new show was really nice.
The only complaint, the price 100LE seems way over the top compared to entrance of the Valley of Kings at 80LE or indeed entrance to Karnak during the daytime 65LE.
So if your budget allows, GO
The sound track has been updated, obviously I am just going on memory but I reckon about 30% of the track is new. The lightening updates are really good.
Regular readers of this blog may remember years ago I conducted a survey on behalf of Mansour Boraik on whether there should be a screen at Karnak to enable laser displays. My readers overwhelming voted no and Mansour was able to use the statistics in discussion with the Sound and Light company. The result of this is they have used the walls of the monument to projection the slides onto and it works really well. They still have the processional bit of the show and as you stand in the first court they project images and hieroglyphs on the gateway of the second pylon.
The 'holy of holies' also has been highlight with a red laser light. When you sit on the benches at the end they screen the display on the walls of the court de cache, the back of the first pylon and the eight pylon. Also the scared lake has floating lights. I was with some guests who had seen the old show and agreed with me the new show was really nice.
The only complaint, the price 100LE seems way over the top compared to entrance of the Valley of Kings at 80LE or indeed entrance to Karnak during the daytime 65LE.
So if your budget allows, GO
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