Egypt Tourism: Archeological sites open to visitors for the first time

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02:09

Egypt is opening a series of previously cordoned-off archaeological sites to the public. This week the tomb of a prominent ancient Egyptian figure was opened for public viewing. It was discovered near Giza in 1940, but never opened for visitors. Here is Adel EL Mahrouky with more.

This is al Saqqara Necropolis, a site a bit far away from the famous Pyramids of Giza, yet archeologists consider it of greater historic importance. Here lies Djoser Pyramid, the oldest grand stone structure known to man. This week a new astonishing site in this area is open for visitors for the very first time, the Tomb of Mehu.

ZAHI HAWAS ARCHEOLOGIST "The scriptures on top of the tomb entrance is very important. It clarifies the important status of this person. He was very respected in the royal family, and that tomb was dedicated to him, his son and grandson. Inside there is a unique drawing of crocodiles mating, which is a drawing, I haven't seen before in my life, it's only here."

The scriptures say Mehu was the Chief of the royal palace and the chief of judges. He lived during the sixth dynasty, which means that these colored inscriptions on the walls have been there for 4300 years. Archeologists say the tomb was the first to show that some ancient Egyptians could get attributed to titles of gods, which is usually exclusive to royal family bloodline.

KHALED EL ANANI ANTIQUITIES MINISTER OF EGYPT "This is part of the renovation project for Djoser pyramid, and Saqqara area the first grand stone structure in the world. It's a huge project, that we finally after years of work will end in the next few months. Our restorers are working tirelessly to complete the renovations in the pyramid and the southern tomb."

Within the next few months Djoser pyramid will be open for visitors to enter inside. By then the southern tomb in the Necropolis will have been fully renovated. Adel EL Mahrouky CGTN CAIRO.