4,000-Year-Old Tomb Of Titi Nab Fu, Pharaoh’s Doctor and ‘Magician’ Unearthed In Saqqara

Conny Waters - AncientPages.com - A new fascinating archaeological discovery has been made in Egypt. This time, a Franco-Swiss archaeological mission has unearthed an engraved and beautifully painted" 4,000-year-old tomb of Titi Nab Fu, a royal doctor of the Sixth Dynasty.

Credit: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities

The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced the discovery with great enthusiasm, noting its location at Saqqara, an area renowned for its historical significance approximately 40 kilometers southwest of Cairo. The tomb is an architectural marvel characterized by its rectangular shape, flat roof, and sloping sides. Its exterior gives way to intricately carved walls adorned with vivid paintings that vividly illustrate life during ancient times.

Credit: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities

These artistic depictions clearly identify the tomb as the final resting place of Titi Nab Fu, who served as chief physician during King Pepi II's reign. His contributions were not limited to his medical expertise. He also held the priest and "magician" positions for Serket—the revered Egyptian goddess associated with healing venomous bites and stings.

Credit: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities

Titi Nab Fu's illustrious titles included chief dentist and director of medicinal plants, highlighting his extensive knowledge in treating injuries caused by scorpions or snakes. This expertise likely contributed significantly to his mystical reputation among contemporaries who revered him as both healer and magician.

Credit: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities

Moreover, Titi Nab Fu was essential in advancing early healthcare systems that were quite sophisticated for their time. These systems featured various non-invasive surgeries, bone-setting techniques, advanced dentistry practices, and diverse pharmacological treatments derived from local flora.

Credit: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities

Despite evidence of ancient looting attempts over the centuries, which have left their marks, the tomb’s walls remain remarkably well-preserved. They offer valuable insights into daily life and cultural practices during Egypt's Old Kingdom era (circa 2686–2181 B.C.).

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Furthermore, alongside these carvings, a stone sarcophagus was found, inscribed meticulously with Titi Nab Fu’s name and titles—a testament to his esteemed position in society. This extraordinary archaeological find enriches our understanding of Egypt's rich historical tapestry and enhances Saqqara’s standing as one of Egypt's most important archaeological sites, a treasure trove revealing secrets from millennia past about one of humanity’s earliest civilizations.

Written by Conny Waters - AncientPages.com Staff Writer