New statue unearthed in Egypt

History fans taking flights to Egypt could be tempted to visit the site of a newly discovered statue in Luxor.Following months of work, archaeologists have confirmed the discovery of part of a 3,400-year-old statue of the pharaoh Amenhotep III – known as the grandfather of King Tutankhamen.

Egypt’s antiquities chief Zahi Hawass, explained: “The statue was found near the northern entrance of Amenhotep III’s temple and depicts the king sitting down on a throne with Amun, the chief deity.”

The 4ft by 3ft statue was discovered at the site of the pharaoh’s mortuary temple in Luxor and depicts Amenhotep III wearing the double crown of Egypt. He is believed to have ruled at the height of Egypt’s New Kingdom period and would have overseen an empire running from Nubia to Syria.

It is thought that there could be other uncovered statues on the site that may have been moved or covered following flooding in the area.

Luxor is one of Egypt’s most popular tourist destinations and its ancient temples are a must-see for anyone planning a flight to Egypt.

Written by Ruth Norris.