Excavations at Tell El Fara’in, known as ancient Buto or Butosus, east of Alexandria, Egypt, unearthed remains of mud-brick walls and artefacts, some of which are linked to King Psamtik I, a Pharaoh of the 26th Dynasty.

According to Egyptian archaeologists examination of the mud-brick walls suggests that they could possibly represent the main ancient axis of the Buto temple, and the furnaces found nearby may have been used for the preparation of the offerings presented to deities inside the temple. Two limestone columns have also been unearthed, which may had once have been part of the temple’s hall of pillar. Moreover, a limestone statue of King Psamtik I was found, seated on the throne and holding the royal handkerchief in his right hand. The upper part of the statue is however damaged.

A part of a yet unidentified royal statue has also been found but preliminary examination suggests that it too could belong to King Psamtik I. This statue is skilfully carved in black granite. It is missing the head, neck, and a segment below the knee, as well as the base and parts of the arms. It depicts the king wearing the shendit (royal kilt). Both statues and their fragments were transferred to the facilities of Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities for conservation and restoration. The mission also uncovered the upper part of a statue of the god Hur engraved in quartzite, remains of an inscription bearing the name of Buto, part of a granite royal hand with the remains of a royal cartouche of King Psamtik I, part of a menit Necklace (the symbol of goddess Hathor), as well as a collection of pottery.

(after Ahram Online)