Damaged Egyptian "Mecca" To Be Restored
A development boom near Egypt's Abydos archaeological site is damaging one of the most sacred gathering places for ancient pilgrims, experts say.
Millions of Egyptians crossed the desert surrounding Abydos from 664 B.C. to A.D. 395 to pay homage to the god of the dead, Osiris. Many of Egypt's earliest pharaohs were buried at the site.
Modern pressures in the form of new farms and buildings have taken their toll on the 3.1-mile (5-kilometer) wide area, sometimes called the Mecca of ancient Egypt.
The temples and tombs are also home to the earliest known Egyptian hieroglyphics.
But now, an international team of archaeologists are rallying to protect Abydos from future harm.
Read entire article at National Geographic News
Millions of Egyptians crossed the desert surrounding Abydos from 664 B.C. to A.D. 395 to pay homage to the god of the dead, Osiris. Many of Egypt's earliest pharaohs were buried at the site.
Modern pressures in the form of new farms and buildings have taken their toll on the 3.1-mile (5-kilometer) wide area, sometimes called the Mecca of ancient Egypt.
The temples and tombs are also home to the earliest known Egyptian hieroglyphics.
But now, an international team of archaeologists are rallying to protect Abydos from future harm.