Ancient Egyptians Were First to Hire Mayors, New Study Says

Reproduction of a papyrus depicting the reign of Ramses III on display in Venice, Italy, in 2003. PHOTO: AFP
Reproduction of a papyrus depicting the reign of Ramses III on display in Venice, Italy, in 2003. PHOTO: AFP
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Ancient Egyptians Were First to Hire Mayors, New Study Says

Reproduction of a papyrus depicting the reign of Ramses III on display in Venice, Italy, in 2003. PHOTO: AFP
Reproduction of a papyrus depicting the reign of Ramses III on display in Venice, Italy, in 2003. PHOTO: AFP

A recent study that examined a limestone block found in a village in Monufia Governorate (Egyptian Delta) has revealed that ancient Egyptians were the first to hire mayors in the New Kingdom.

According to the study published in the journal Union of Arab Archeologists, this block, found coincidentally at the Ashmoun center, has a remarkable cultural value because it features engravings that highlight major titles used in the local administration in the New Kingdom, like the "Mayor" or supervisor of the Khenti Nefret city.

The limestone is currently preserved at a museum storehouse in the Jewish Hill, in Kafr al-Shoubak region, Qalyubia Governorate, north of Cairo.

The study, led by Tamer Shaafa, Egyptology professor at the Monufia University's Literature School, explained that this city was located in what is known today as the "Shenbary" village, to the east of Giza Provence, which indicates the origin of the limestone before being moved later to Monufia, where it was unearthed.

Shaafa provided a detailed description of the block featuring nine horizontal lines of engraved hieroglyphic writings, copies of the hieroglyphic texts and their translations.

He also interpreted the used language and font, and identified the stone nature, suggesting it could be a part of a plate displaying a donation or grant of an agricultural field introduced by Ramesses III to the department of God Ra in the Delta.

In addition to the new information provided by the stone, it uncovers the historic value of the fourth district of Lower Egypt, which covered large parts of the Monufia, said the professor. "Although Ramesses III left myriad of belongings in the Delta, few have been discovered so far," he added.



Jeddah Waterfront: A Blend of Modern Design and Picturesque Views

Jeddah Waterfront (SPA)
Jeddah Waterfront (SPA)
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Jeddah Waterfront: A Blend of Modern Design and Picturesque Views

Jeddah Waterfront (SPA)
Jeddah Waterfront (SPA)

Characterized by its unique architectural design, Jeddah Waterfront is an ideal venue for major cultural and entertainment events such as the Formula 1 stc Saudi Arabian Grand Prix at Jeddah Corniche Circuit, and various sports tournaments. It has become a prime tourist attraction in Jeddah Governorate.
The waterfront boasts a diverse selection of restaurants and cafes that serve international cuisines, alongside high-end shops offering both local and imported goods, providing ample shopping opportunities for visitors, the Saudi Press Agency said on Monday.
Visitors can further enjoy the waterfront through marine activities such as boating and yachting, or explore its expanse by cycling.
Jeddah Waterfront delivers a comprehensive tourism experience, combining entertainment, relaxation, marine activities, and events, highlighting Jeddah's beauty and enhancing its global appeal.