The ancient city of Aswan, situated along the Nile River in southern Egypt, has long been a hub of cultural and historical significance. Recently, a joint Italian-Egyptian archaeological mission has uncovered a remarkable discovery that sheds new light on the lives and ailments of the Greco-Roman inhabitants of this region. The unearthing of numerous family graves, dating back to the late Greco-Roman periods (7th century BC-4th century AD), has provided unprecedented insights into the health and mortality patterns of the time.
Youth and Adolescent Death: A Shocking Prevalence
Ayman Ashmawy, the head of the Supreme Council of Antiquities’ Egyptian Antiquities Division, revealed that studies of the mummies indicate a startling statistic: “30 to 40 percent of those buried died in their youth, as newborns or as adolescents.” This sobering finding underscores the harsh realities of life during the Greco-Roman era, where a significant portion of the population succumbed to various ailments at a young age.
Dr. Muhammad Ismail Khaled, the Secretary General of the Supreme Council for Archaeology, emphasized the significance of this discovery, stating that further excavations are expected to uncover more graves and provide a deeper understanding of the ancient inhabitants’ health and mortality patterns.
Uncovering the Diseases of the Past
Patrizia Piacentini, a professor of Egyptology and archaeology at the University of Milan, led the Italian side of the mission. Her team’s preliminary studies on the remains revealed that “some suffered from infectious diseases, while others had bone disorders including and excluding anemia, malnutrition, chest diseases, tuberculosis and signs of osteoporosis.” Additionally, the remains of several adult women pointed to pelvic trauma, shedding light on the challenges faced by the women of that era.
Burial Practices and Social Stratification
The excavation also revealed intriguing insights into the burial practices and social stratification of the Greco-Roman Aswan islanders. Some graves featured a casket entrance with an open courtyard surrounded by mudbrick walls, while others were carved directly into the mountain rock, suggesting a distinction between the middle- and upper-class inhabitants.
Dr. Abdul Moneim Saeed, the general supervisor of Aswan and Nubia and the director of the archaeological mission from the Egyptian side, revealed that among the discoveries are several mummies, including an adult, possibly a woman, and a child who likely died at the age of one or two years. These two bodies were found still attached or ‘glued’ to each other inside a stone coffin, likely due to the embalming fluids used.
The Elite Burials: Reflecting Status and Wealth
Examination of the elite burials in Aswan provides further insights into the social hierarchy of the time. As in other parts of ancient Egypt, the tombs of the upper class were often elaborately designed, featuring intricate architectural elements, high-quality materials, and an abundance of funerary goods. These burials were typically situated in prominent and elevated areas, ensuring visibility and status.
The presence of nested coffins, adorned with protective deities and symbols, as well as the use of sophisticated mummification techniques, underscores the importance placed on ensuring a safe passage to the afterlife for the elite. Grave goods, such as jewelry, pottery, furniture, and shabti figurines, were included to serve the deceased in the afterlife, further reflecting the wealth and status of the individuals.
Conclusion
The recent archaeological discoveries in Aswan have unveiled a remarkable chapter in the history of the Greco-Roman period in Egypt. The unearthing of numerous family graves has not only shed light on the prevalence of youth and adolescent mortality but has also provided invaluable insights into the diseases and health challenges faced by the ancient inhabitants of this region.
The distinction between the middle- and upper-class burials has illuminated the social stratification of the Aswan islanders, while the examination of the elite tombs has offered a glimpse into the elaborate burial practices and the importance placed on the afterlife. As the archaeological mission continues its work, we can expect to uncover even more fascinating details about the lives and legacies of the people who once called Aswan their home.
