Ilaria Rosella Pagliaro Archaeologists have discovered an astronomical observatory from the 6th century BC in Egypt, the largest ever found: among the finds, a tilted sundial, statues of deities and engravings depicting the rising and setting of the sun
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Recently, amidst the eternal sands of Egypt, an extraordinary discovery has come to light: the largest and oldest astronomical observatory ever found, a silent witness to the grandeur of the 6th century BC. This majestic complex, stretching nearly half a mile, stands within the revered Temple of Buto in Kafr Sheikh, about a two-and-a-half-hour journey from the towering pyramids of Giza. It appears as an ancient guardian of celestial wisdom.
The building, with its slanted structure, seems shaped by the desire to capture the very essence of time itself, boasting an architecture so ingenious that it could measure the shadows and movements of the sun with pinpoint accuracy. Inside, time has preserved an ancient sundial and other instruments that once marked the days and seasons. The doors, oriented towards the east and west, served as gateways through which the sun traced its daily path. The pride of the discovery, an “inclined shadow clock,” emerges as one of the most refined measuring instruments of antiquity.
Hidden treasures and images of the sky
In addition to these marvels, archaeologists have uncovered engravings depicting the rising and setting of the sun through the three seasons of the year, accompanied by numerous treasures from the period, including tools, statues, and jewels of priceless value. Among the most fascinating finds is a gray granite statue from the Saïte dynasty (664-332 BC), depicting the deities Osiris and Horus, the mighty falcon god. Completing this picture is an imposing brick wall, slanted inward, reminiscent of the elegance of the calligraphic style found in other ancient Egyptian temples.
The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has described this discovery as exceptionally important, providing new and valuable insights into the astronomical knowledge and architectural capabilities of the ancient Egyptians. Even reputable sources, such as the portal ancient-origins.net, have acknowledged its significance, emphasizing how it contributes to a deeper understanding of the history and culture of Ancient Egypt.
