The Rising Sun in Egyptology

Originally published the week of July 30 - August 5, 2009 | Al-Ahram Weekly Online | by Nevine El-Aref

For the forthcoming couple of months the Egyptian Museum is hosting an exhibition of five dozen ancient Egyptian artefacts unearthed at three archaeological sites by the mission from Waseda University over the past 40 years.

These unique objects have never before been exhibited. They derive from Abusir, the site of 11 pyramids south of Giza; Dahshour, the site of King Senefru's pyramids; and Malkata on Luxor's west bank, where the grandfather of Pharaoh Tutankhamun, Amenhotep III, dug a lake and built a palace for his beautiful and powerful wife, Queen Tiye.

Taught Like an Egyptian

Originally published July 27, 2009 | The Times Tribune | by Carl Keith Greene

A memo from Corbin Superintendent Ed McNeel sent a pair of teachers from the city middle school on a trek along the Nile this summer.

Melissa Evans and Michele Anderson took the challenge — they applied for and received the grant that would take them to the land of camels, caravans and Cleopatra.

From June 26 to July 8, they and other teachers toured the Nile Valley in Egypt from Alexandria to near the border with Sudan, experiencing the historical and modern cultures of the nation.

There Was Once a Man

Originally published the week of July 23 - 29, 2009 | Al-Ahram Weekly Online | by Jenny Jobbins

The writer of this article at Al-Ahram Weekly Online "takes a new look at some old tales, and ponders on the unchanging face of literature and the human experience."

Click the above link to read the article in its entirety.

Screaming Mummies!

Originally published July 31, 2009 | Archaeology Magazine | by Mark Rose

Mark Rose demystifies the screaming mummy (which includes mummies from both Egyptian, Chinese, and Peruvian cultures) in his article at Archaeology Magazine Online, which highlights mummies examined in the recent 2007 documentary called Secrets of Egypt's Lost Queen; the dead and their loosened jaws as they appear in movies and plays such as The Mummy and A Christmas Carol, respectively; and gives a description of why this anatomical curiosity occurs. Accompanying the script are pictures.

Tom Kuntz blogs about this in a post at the New York Times.

Obama and the Secrets of the Pyramids

Published Week of 23 - 29 July 2009 | Al-Ahram Weekly Online | by Dr. Zahi Hawass

Zahi Hawass gives a detailed description of his meeting with U.S. President Barack Obama and having led him on a tour of the Giza Necropolis:

I have met many famous people at the Pyramids, but I can say that one visit stands out in my mind as one that I really enjoyed -- that of US President Barack Obama.

When he arrived in at the Pyramids, Obama was casually dressed. He was very nice to me from the moment that we first met, and it was truly a pleasant surprise when Rahm Emmanuel, his chief of staff, mentioned to the president my profile that was recently published in The New York Times.

Follow the above link to read the full article. My favorite part is when the President remarks the uncanny resemblance of his own face to the hieroglyphic sign for "upon" (a face head on with protruding ears).

In Pictures at Zahi Hawass' Photo Blog

Accessed July 30, 2009 | Zahi Hawass' Photo Blog

Overview of Taposiris Magna - Following this pictures, there's a short description and links to further information.

A Guardian in the Tomb Chapel of the High Priest of Thoth, Petosiris, at Tuna el-Gebel - Included with this pictures is a brief paragraph and a link to further information.

Ancient Egypt Coming to Local Libraries

Originally published July 28, 2009 | Wayne Independent

This article chronicles two events focusing on Ancient Egypt that took place at several Pennsylvanian libraries: "I Want My Mummy" and "CSI: Ancient Egypt" as presented by Dr. Stephen R. Phillips of the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology. Perhaps they would be interested in coming to the Northwest Suburbs of the Chicagoland area?

I Want My Mummy!

Originally published July 30, 2009 | Wayne Independent | by Tammy Compton

Children gathered Wednesday at the Bethany Public Library for a presentation by Dr. Stephen Phillips, University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology. Dr. Phillips was discussing the science behind ancient Egyptian mummies. Program funding is provided by the Commonwealth of PA Outreach Lecture Program, sponsored by the University of Pennsylvania Museum.

Left-handed Kings? Observations on a Fragmentary Egyptian Sculpture

Accessed July 30, 2009 (web site updated July 27) | Nicholas Reeves.com | by Nicholas Reeves

Although not a new theory, Mr. Reeves presents an article, followed by descriptive notes and accompanying pictures, that examines the supposed leftward orientation in Ancient Egypt, as observed through several facets: sculpture, the folding of kilts, perceptions favoring the left side, hieroglyphic representations, and others.

Workshop: Seals and Sealing Practices from Ancient Times till Present Day

Originally published July 29, 2009 | Universiteit Leiden

Follow the link to learn more about this workshop in December at the Netherlands-Flemish Institute in Cairo (NVIC). The web page includes a description of the lecture/workshop, an itinerary, and contact information for those interested.

Celebrating Forty Years of Japanese Excavations in Egypt

Originally published July 23, 2009 | Zahi Hawass' Blog | by Dr. Hawass

Recently an important exhibition opened in the Egyptian Museum displaying the work of the Japanese in Egypt over the past forty years. Notably, it highlights the work of Dr. Sakuji Yoshimura, who directed many of these projects.

New Audio Tours of the Oriental Institute Museum Galleries Available

Originally published July 21, 2009 | Oriental Institute

Audio tours of the Oriental Institute Museum galleries are now available for free download so that you can use your own iPod or other MP3 player to take any or all of our special tours. Current tours are 'Highlights of the Collection of the Oriental Institute,' a tour of 'The Ancient Near East in the Time of Tutankhamun,' and a special 'Ancient Egypt for Kids' tour.

The following is a direct link to the self guided audio tours

Picture - Anubis Statue at de Young

Originally published July 22, 2009 | TwitPic

It's a slow news day, as you can tell, but that shouldn't discredit this interesting find any. I wonder if anyone sells life sized statues so that I can put one in my room.

Picture - Excitement Mounts Over Dr. Hawass' Visit to Indianapolis

Originally published July 22, 2009 | Zahi Hawass' Photo Blog

A Borders bookstore is getting ready for the coming Tutankhamun exhibit in Indianapolis with this front window display, complete with dressed mannequins, a large banner announcing Dr. Hawass' August 7th lecture, and companion books (all of which are very nice additions to Egyptological libraries).

Appear on a Major New TV Show in Egypt With Dr Zahi Hawass

Originally published July 15, 2009 | Challenging the Past Blog | by Marsia Sfakianou Bealby

Please circulate to your colleagues:

ARCHAEOLOGISTS or ANTHROPOLOGISTS WANTED!

A new television series for the History Channel is seeking an Archaeology or Anthropology Expert/Professor AND several student Archaeology or Anthropology majors or recent graduates! (Please do NOT submit if you are only an enthusiast.)

This expert and the students will be a part of a small team that will travel to several digs in Egypt with the legendary Dr. Zahi Hawass. (If the expert and/or the students have experience in Egyptology even better, but this is not a requirement.)

Bare Bones Egypt 2010 Tour

Accessed July 21, 2009 | Andante Travels

The Bare Bones Egypt 2010 tour provides a look into the funerary/religious beliefs of the ancient Egyptians through their monuments and art. The above link will bring you to a page from Andante Travels that lists all the tour's information: a descriptor, itinerary, what's included in the tour, flight and hotel information, a map of where the tour will be located, a reading list, and an electronic means of booking the tour. Pricing is also provided, along with information on the tour guide (Lucia Gahlin).

Other tours include Egypt - land of the Pharaohs 2009 (October 11-26, 2009) and Egypt - land of the Pharaohs 2010 (March 21-April 5, 2010).

From Gods to Garbage Dwellers

Originally published July 21, 2009 | Global Post | by Theodore May

This two-page article tells of "the steady demise of Cairo’s cats" and what a group of activists (the Egyptian Mau Rescue Organization) is doing to save them and includes some history on the Egyptian mau and the EMRO and a video:

Egyptian Study Tours 2010 - Egypt, Germany, Paris

Originally published July 15, 2009 | Challenging the Past Blog

For a fee between $520 and $2,500, you can register to participate in any of the three tours set for the early part of 2010: Cairo and Siwa oasis in Feburary, 2010 for 14 days; Hildesheim, Germany in May, 2010 for 4 days; or Paris, France in June, 2010 for 3 days. Download the program guide if you are interested, which includes a more detailed description of each study tour and contact information.

Festival of British Archaeology Events

Accessed July 21, 2009 | Council for British Archaeology

If you are in the UK or planning on traveling there, use this database to locate archaeological events and programs. This database works only with UK post codes.

Long Distance Courses in Egyptology

Originally published July 16, 2009 | Challenging the Past Blog | by Marsia Sfakianou Bealby

If you are willing to dish out $399 to participate in each of these classes, with a discount if you enroll in two or more classes, read on.

Classes offered are the following: Part 1 - History, Part 2 - Religious Beliefs and Funerary Practices, Part 3 - Literature and Related Texts, Part 4 - Daily Life in Ancient Egypt (coming soon). Each course has its own book that you receive when you enroll.

Download the virus free application form and fill it out if you are interested in any of these courses. The form also includes contact information and a more detailed description for each class.

High-Tech Imaging of Ancient Papyrus May Shed Light Into Writing of Early Societies

Originally published July 13, 2009 | Taragana

A team of researchers and scholars are using high-tech imaging to clear the layers of text hidden beneath words and letters written on levels of ancient papyrus, which may reveal fascinating insights into the writing and everyday life of early Egyptian, Greek and Roman societies.

Egyptian Art at Durham University

Accessed July 20, 2009 | Durham University - Oriental Museum

A new gallery at the Oriental Museum showcasing the highlights of our amazing Ancient Egyptian collections.

The completely new displays will include some familiar favourites as well as objects that have never been on view to the public before.

Furor Over Dead Sea Scrolls Exhibition

Originally published July 15, 2009 | The Jewish Daily Forward | by Michael Kaminer

Crowds at the Royal Ontario Museum’s heavily hyped Dead Sea Scrolls exhibition — Dead Sea Scrolls: Words That Changed the World, which runs until January 3, 2010 — have far exceeded the museum’s own expectations. In the show’s first nine days, more than 18,000 people flocked to the museum’s spectacular new Daniel Libeskind-designed Michael Lee-Chin Crystal pavilion — about 52% above the exhibitors’ own projections.

Help name the Putnam's Egyptian Gallery

Originally published July 15, 2009 | Quad-City Times

The Putnam Museum's most iconic gallery is about to undergo a renovation, and officials at the Davenport venue want the public's help in giving it a new name to go with the new look.

King Tut Explorer’s Photos, Treasures Revealed

Originally published July 16, 2009 | MSNBC | by Rossella Lorenzi

The Highclere cache is just a tiny part of a magnificent collection which Almina, Lord Carnarvon's wife and the illegitimate daughter of Alfred de Rothschild of the famous banking family, sold to the Metropolitan Museum in New York in 1926.

The long-hidden collection is now presented in its full glory in the cellars of the castle, along with hundreds of unpublished photographs taken by Lord Carnarvon between 1907 and 1914. They were discovered two years ago in the family archives by Fiona, the Eighth Countess of Carnarvon.

The following is a direct link to the exhibit.

Google Upgrades Giza Resolution

Originally published July 17, 2009 | Talking Pyramids

Google has upgraded the Giza area in Google Earth and Google Maps with higher resolution imagery allowing us to see the pyramids in more detail.

EES Excavation Fund 2009

Accessed July 20, 2009 | EES

Funding is available for Egypt-related excavation and research projects from the Egypt Exploration Society.

Spellbound in Brooklyn

Originally published July 14, 2009 | Archaeology Magazine Online | by Morgan Moroney

Housed in a small gallery off the Brooklyn Museum's Egyptian wing is "Magic in Ancient Egypt: Image, Word, and Reality," an exhibition on view until October 8, 2009. Highlighting 20 objects from the museum's collection, it emphasizes how magic and religion, magic and science, even magic and health care, were inseparable in ancient Egypt. Despite its small stature and lack of videos or interactive computer displays, which sometimes overwhelm artifacts in exhibitions nowadays, "Magic" was an enjoyable presentation of a fascinating subject.

New Book - Archaeology of Religion

Accessed July 20, 2009 | Left Coast Press Inc.

Steadman fills an empty niche in the offerings on how archaeology interprets past religions with this useful textbook. The book includes case studies from around the world, from the study of Upper Paleolithic religions and of shamans in foraging societies to formal religious structures in advanced complex societies of Mesopotamia, Egypt, India and the Andes. Steadman also includes key contemporary religions--Christianity, Islam, Buddhism among others--to provide an historical and comparative context. This is an ideal text for an Archaeology of Religion course or classes that include a significant component on "past religions," as well as for general readers.

Book Review - The Court and Court Society in Ancient Monarchies

Accessed July 20, 2009 | Bryn Mawr Classical Review | by Rolf Strootman

The book under review is the result of a workshop held in 2004 in Newcastle, where seven scholars met to discuss and compare seven royal courts in different cultures and periods: the Achaemenid, Argead Macedonian, and Sassanid, early and late imperial Roman, Han Chinese and New Kingdom Egyptian.

The volume ends with a chapter by Kate Spence, who considers the court in pharaonic Egypt in the late Second Millennium BCE -- a difficult task since official royal texts rarely mention individuals other than the pharaoh: "building temples, fighting wars and performing ritual were recorded as historical events but were usually presented as if kings acted in isolation" (p. 267). Spence therefore focuses on the relatively well-documented court of the reformer Akhenaten at el-Amarna. As in most other ancient monarchies, courtiers in pharaonic Egypt doubled as administrators. Since priests played a crucial role in pharaonic administration, Spence interprets Akhenaten's abolition of the powerful priesthood of Amun -- normally considered as a religious measure -- as an effort by the king to shift the balance between himself and his officials, an active reform of the administration encountered more often in Egyptian history.

Desert Days An Interview with Dr. Fred Wendorf

Accessed July 20, 2009 | The Archaeology Channel

Dr. Fred Wendorf came of age and began his career during a formative period in American archaeology. But after leaving his permanent mark on the development of archaeology in the American Southwest and the United States, he essentially founded the study of the prehistoric eastern Sahara, beginning with the Aswan Dam Project in the Nile River Valley. His life, nearly ended by a bullet on a WWII battlefield in Italy, has included an archaeological research career spanning six decades and an unsurpassed record of seminal contributions. His recently published book, Desert Days: My Life as a Field Archaeologist, is a record not only of a life, but of an epoch in the history of archaeology on two continents. This is history he not just witnessed, but to a significant degree he created it through his innovative approaches and endless energy, which should serve as an inspiration to subsequent generations of archaeologists.

Egyptian Desert Tourism Promotion Goes Full Blast

Originally published July 19, 2009 | eTurboNews | by Hazel Heyer

After breaking the record for the fastest crossing of the Great Sand Sea last March 5, Egyptian adventurer Hesham Nessim plans to set another record on November 2009 in the Western Desert driving from Siwa to Abu Simbel.

Nessim will be driving the "fastest" vehicle ever to cross the Egyptian Western Desert. If this adventure were to succeed, it would be registered on the Guinness Book of World Records. The Egyptian Tourism Promotion Authority sponsors the event highlighting desert/valley tourism and countless natural wonders of Egypt, in line with its current strategy to promote the desert tourism product.

Ancient Egyptian Epagomenal Festival

Originally published July 15, 2009 | The Scribe Blog

So I missed joining in on the fun, being a day late and a dollar short with this event. However, it is an annual event, so it's something to keep in mind for next year.

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum will be hosting its annual Egyptian Epagomenal Festival on Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19. In ancient Egyptian mythology, the calendar included 360 days plus five additional epagomenal days. These epagomenal days were days "out of time" when the goddesses Isis and Nephthys, and the gods Osiris, Seth and Horus were born. The Egyptians celebrated the birthdays of these gods with a festival each year. Our version of this festival will include a variety of special lectures, tomb tours, workshops and children’s activities held throughout Rosicrucian Park.

Oriental Institute News: "Easily Overlooked Ornamentation"

Originally published July 7, 2009 | The Oriental Institute Blog | by Charles Ellwood Jones

WTTW's Chicago Tonight has a feature called Hidden Chicago.

On June 10, 2009 they broadcast a feature on architectural ornamentation Easily Overlooked Ornamentation. 5:10 into that broadcast is a segment on James Henry Breasted and the typmanum over the Oriental Institute doorway.

University Denies Test on Egyptian Bust in Berlin

Originally published July 20, 2009 | Earth Times

A German university denied Monday that it had analysed the bust of Pharaoh Hatshepsut, an Egyptian sculpture at a Berlin museum, or suggested the statue was a forgery. The bust of the female ruler is one of the icons of the Egyptian Museum in the city. It was acquired for 1 million marks (510,000 euros or about 715,000 dollars) two decades ago.

Picture - The Temple of Ras el-Souda, Alexandria

Originally published July 14, 2009 | Zahi Hawass' Photo Blog | by Garry Shaw

Having been moved 10km from its original location due to the threat of rising groundwater, the Temple of Ras el-Souda is now the centrepiece of the new Mosaic Museum in Alexandria, which is currently under construction. The temple was discovered in 1936 and dates to the Second Century AD. A charioteer named Isidorus helped finance the temple and dedicated a large statue of a foot here after he recovered from a chariot racing injury.

Video - Michael Jackson Would Like to Live Forever

Originally published July 16, 2009 | Guardian UK

Clip of Martin Bashir's Michael Jackson documentary in which the singer discusses buying a replica of Tutankhamun's sarcophagus – and what will happen when he dies.

Lecture at the Corcoran Gallery of Art in D.C. - In the Valley of the Kings: Howard Carter and the Mystery of King Tutankhamun’s Tomb

Accessed July 20, 2009 | The Corcoran Gallery of Art

The topmost program listing features an event that focuses on Daniel Meyerson's book, In the Valley of the Kings: Howard Carter and the Mystery of King Tutankhamun’s Tomb. It will be held in D.C. at the Corcoran, so if you're in the area, stop by.

President Castro of Cuba Visits Giza

Originally published July 20, 2009 | Zahi Hawass' Blog | by Zahi Hawass

I would be completely speechless if Dr. Hawass presented me with a stunning replica of Tutankhamun's golden statuette of the goddess Selket. She would make an excellent addition to my teetering bookcase.

I really enjoyed meeting President Castro at Giza. When I first met him I discovered that he had heard of me, and that he was very interested in pharaonic history. When I took him over to the front of the Great Pyramid I learned that he knew a lot about it, and he told me that he had been to Egypt forty-nine years ago as a young man.

Dr. Hawass to Give Lecture in Indianapolis on 7th August

Originally published July 18, 2009 | Zahi Hawass' Blog

If I had the day off, I would be there. To meet Dr. Hawass one day before my birthday would be very exciting!

Dr. Hawass will be giving a lecture entitled, Mysteries of Tutankhamun Revealed, at the Clowes Memorial Hall of Butler University on Friday 7th August, 2009.

The lecture will begin at 7:30pm. Tickets are $15, but you can get a $5 discount if you go to http://www.ticketmaster.com/zahi and enter the word ZAHI into the 'promotions and Special Offers' box. Here is the official poster of the event.

A Day in Alexandria

Originally published July 16, 2009 | Zahi Hawass' Blog | by Zahi Hawass

Last week I went to Alexandria to see the work currently taking place to improve the museums there, and to get an update on the current status of these various projects. When I first became Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities many of the museums in Alexandria were run-down, and so I decided that they needed to be closed for renovation, in order to improve them and to turn them into world class museums. Many people did not want the museums to be closed, but I told them that they needed to be fixed and that action needed to be taken immediately.

Egyptian Grand Museum worthy of the Pharoahs

Originally published July 20, 2009 | The National | by Digby Lidstone

The Grand Egyptian Museum is scheduled to open in 2013. "The new museum is one of the best ways of preserving these antiquities and showing them to the people at the same time. Our hope is it will be the greatest museum in the world," said Alaa al Din Shaheen of Cairo University and the Supreme Council of Antiquities.

Ancient Fortress City Unearthed in Egypt

Originally published July 14, 2009 | Discovery News | by Rossella Lorenzi

More news regarding the recent discovery of a military town in Tell Dafna, the largest in the eastern Delta. Information is given about its size; its location compared to other cities; its importance throughout history, including the fairly recent present when Petrie excavated there, and to several well-known rulers such as Ramesses II and Psammetichus I; the current undergoings by the SCA to rescue it from modern development; the role the British Museum is playing in the project and their plans; the material findings there that support the fact that the site held military and trading importance in ancient times; and further developments as new discoveries are uncovered such as a temple and palace.

Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of Egyptian Antiquities

Originally published July 13, 2009 | Middle East Online | by Leila Diab

This freelance journalist and educator puts into scholastic comparison the golden artifacts of Tutankhamun exhibit at the de Young Museum and their significance to Ancient Egyptian thought and ends with words said by Howard Carter upon revealing the glint of gold through a hold in the wall with a tiny candle that still hold true today as we moderns make our way through the exhibit today.

Self-Preservation

Originally published July 12, 2009 | Inquirer | by John C. Maxwell

John Maxwell gives a run-down of the purpose of building pyramids and how abouts they executed the feat. He then continues with the irony of the self-preserving leader, how the "me-first" mentality may just have weakened their authoritative role in society, thereby deteriorating their mighty dynasties. He concludes with the root causes of the self-preserving leader.

Lucky Offering Discounts on Tickets to King Tut Exhibit

Originally published July 10, 2009 | San Jose Mercury News | by Donna Kato

Lucky, the supermarket chain headquartered in Modesto, is partnering with the de Young Museum in San Francisco to offer customers a 30 percent discount for up to eight tickets for the King Tut exhibit, "Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs" at the museum. The catch: You'll have to get the promotion code at a Lucky store for the Ticketmaster purchases. The offer is good through March 15, 2010.

Ancient Art History Come to Life at Annual Workshop

Originally published July 10, 2009 | San Bernardino Sun | by Michel Nolan

Ancient Egypt comes to life again this summer when Cal State San Bernardino, home to the largest collection of ancient Egyptian art, offers its popular four-day art workshop series for kids 10-13, which focus on art and education in context from the Sphinx to cellphones. Kids get a chance to craft jewelry, pottery, and ushabtis figurines and participate in a mock dig and scavenger hunts. The article concludes with workshop information.

Pharaohs for All Ages

Originally published July 9 - 15, 2009 | Al-Ahram Weekly Online | by Nevine El-Aref

Tutankhamun and his ancestor Pharaohs are holidaying in Indianapolis on their first Midwest tour following the United States premiere in Atlanta last summer.

The article also describes another exhibit entitled "Take Me There," which examines modern Egyptian culture and is a permanent exhibit at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis.

Archaeologists Unearth Cache of Ancient Artifacts in Egypt

Originally published July 9, 2009 | New Kerala

Archaeologists have unearthed a cache near the Western gate of the National Museum in Cairo, which contained a table made of limestone, a fragment of a slab with hieroglyphic inscriptions, some stones, and the base of a pharaonic pillar, which date back to the pharaonic period around 1,300 years BC.

Lyon's Sumptuous Textile Museum is a Feast for the Eyes

Originally published July 7, 2009 | Digital Journal | by Michael Cosgrove

This article speaks of Lyon's Textile Museum which houses one of the two biggest textile collections ever known. It describes and illustrates in pictures some of the items in the collection, which includes pharaonic and Coptic textiles such as clothing and tapestries.

Berlin's Neues Museum Announces Grand Re-Opening

Originally published July 7, 2009 | Travel Video News

This article announces the re-opening of the Neues Museum in Berlin and chronicles what the museum will house in terms of collections and exhibits (particularly its most popular item: the bust of Nefertiti) and background information on the museum and the development project.

Photo - the Catacombs of Tuna el-Gebel

Originally published July 8, 2009 | Zahi Hawass' Photo Blog | by Ken Garrett

This photo showcases the subterranean animal necropolis at Tuna el-Gebel. Also included is a brief description of the photograph, the site and the site's place in history.

IndyCar: Conquest Racing and King Tut Together Again

Originally published July 7, 2009 | Inside Track News

After a successful venture together at this year’s Indianapolis 500, Conquest Racing and the Rubicon Sports Agency are thrilled to announce an extension of the partnership with the King Tut exhibition “Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs and exhibition organizers Arts and Exhibitions International to include next week’s Honda Indy Toronto.

“Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs” will make its exclusive Canadian appearance at the Art Gallery of Ontario from November 24, 2009 to April 18, 2010, marking the first time in 30 years an exhibition of King Tut’s treasures has visited Toronto. As in Indy, a golden image of the boy pharaoh will once again be featured on the cockpit of the #34 Conquest Racing car of Montreal driver Alex Tagliani with additional King Tut branding on the front wing.

The Mummy Returns to Ribble Valley

Originally published July 6, 2009 | Lancashire Telegraph | by Nafeesa Shan

More on the Stonyhurst College mummy.

A 2,500-YEAR-OLD Egyptian mummy has been returned to Stonyhurst College after more than 30 years.

The remains of the unidentified young boy, aged five or six, left the Clitheroe Catholic boarding school in the 1970s for testing at Man-chester University and the mummy was later placed in an exhibition.

Stonyhurst College has now installed special facilities to preserve the mummy and it has been allowed to return to its former home.

Curator's Diary - July 7, 2009

Originally published July 7, 2009 | Egypt at the Manchester Museum

Egypt at the Manchester hosts four curators, two from Ghana and two from Egypt. They conducted presentations on their specializations, met with staff, and attending meetings. Click the above link of a more detailed look at their 10-day excursion to the museum.

Photo - Gazing at Taposiris Magna

Originally published July 7, 2009 | Zahi Hawass' Photo Blog | by Maggie Bryson

This pictures shows Zahi Hawass at the site of Taposiris Magna, gazing out into the horizon. Below is a brief description of his endeavors at this location.

Conference - Experiment and Experience: Ancient Egypt in the Present

Accessed July 7, 2009 | University of Wales Swansea

Experimental archaeology has the potential to be a powerful research tool while being interdisciplinary. Along with experiential approaches, it is a perfect medium for education and widening participation.

This conference aims to bring together all those interested in the practice of ancient Egyptian technology. Through a series of lectures, workshops and practical demonstrations we will explore the value of a hands-on approach to understanding the past., including experimental as well as experiential approaches.

The above links provides more information on this event including contact information for those who are interested in attending the May 10, 2010 conference.

Lecture - The Last New Kingdom Tomb at Thebes

Accessed July 7, 2009 | The British Museum

On July 20, the Raymond and Beverly Sackler Foundation Distinguished Lecture in Egyptology 2009 presents a lecture entitled the Last New Kingdom Tomb at Thebes: the End of a Great Tradition. The above link gives the who, where, when, and how much.

British Museum Egyptological Colloquium 2009

Accessed July 7, 2009 | The British Museum

Planning a trip to the British Museum? Attend the Egyptological Colloquium 2009 July 21 - 22, 2009, which will focus on recent research and new perspectives on the Egyptian Book of the Dead. Click the above link to learn about the location and the cost of the event. I've also provided a direct links to the program guide and the booking form.

UN Nuclear Agency Helps Unlock Secrets Buried With Mummies

Originally published July 6, 2009 | All Africa

The United Nations nuclear agency is using its expertise to help archaeologists unearth millennia-old secrets, from the supposed murder of King Tutankhamun to the mysterious death of Great Pharaoh Ramesses II, from Egyptian mummies.

Be Inspired by King Tut Exhibit in San Francisco

Originally published July 4, 2009 | Santa Cruz Sentinel

Steven Martin, Michael Smith, and the Bangles are shining examples of the steadfast interest in ancient Egypt. The author of this article explores various areas that captivate us: Tutankhamun, unsolved mysteries, mummies and the Afterlife, and pyramids and papyri.

New Books - The Oxford Handbook of Papyrology

Originally published June 30, 2009 | What's New In Papyrology | by G.W. Schwendner

This blog post features a new publication that is a comprehensive handbook of papyrology, complete with author and product information and a brief description. The work features twenty-seven international experts and more than one hundred illustrations.

Study Egypt From Beyond the Textbook

Originally published July 2, 2009 | SF Examiner| by Ken Garcia

If it’s good to be king, this year will also be a great time to be a sixth-grader.

As part of its really big show featuring the most popular exhibit in its history, de Young Museum officials are offering special group tickets to San Francisco public school students whose curriculum includes the study of ancient Egypt.

And seeing ancient Egypt up close and personal is a lot more exciting than opening a book, which is why museum officials expect close to 25,000 students to visit the exhibit this fall, when the discount tickets are offered.

The tickets are courtesy of program underwriter Wells Fargo Bank, which, in this era of corporate branding, is sponsoring “Tut School Mondays.” That’s one way to make sure the kids are not forced to stand in long lines, as their parents did when the Boy King made his first appearance in San Francisco 30 years ago.

Whether it turns out to be the beginning of a “lifelong love” of ancient history, as museum officials hope, remains to be seen. But school groups who score the tickets by going to www.tut-sanfrancisco.org will immediately learn one thing: Tut has sure aged better than the rest of us.

News on the Gurob Harem Palace Project

Originally published July 2, 2009 | Bloomsbury Academy

Ian Shaw gives an update on his latest project at Medinet el-Gurob. His and Jan Picton's email addresses are provided for further information and interest in the project. Also, there is a mini conference planned in September. That information is listed at the above link and in a downloadable program guide.

Photos - Meroe is One of Archaeology's Greatest Mysteries

Originally published July 4, 2009 | Sudan Watch | by Ingrid Jones

Jones showcases several lovely photos of Meroe and the pyramid field of Nuri, describing these featured monuments and their place in history.

Monuments Discovered in Egyptian Museum

Originally published July 4, 2009 | Egypt State Information Service

Genuine ancient monuments are unearthed near the Egyptian Museum during its development. Read on to learn more about this happy accident.

Hawass' Trip to San Francisco and Indianapolis

Originally published July 6, 2009 | Zahi Hawass' Blog | by Dr. Hawass

Zahi Hawass tells of his busy schedule in the States, including attending the exhibit openings at de Young and the Children's Museum, speaking a press conference, attending a party and dinner in both states, and beaming over artifacts he discovered that are featured in the Children's Museum exhibit.

Books in Brief - In the Valley of the Kings

Originally published July 5, 2009 | Denver Post | by Alexander F. Remington

This new book chronicles Howard Carter's quest to find Tutankhamun's tomb. It features background on both men and focusing on their roles in archaeology and Egyptology.

Kings of the Nile

Originally published July 5, 2009 | The Columbus Dispatch | by Steve Stephens

Loads of information on Atlanta's Tutankhamun exhibit, showing now through October 25. This article details what to expect from this exhibit and complimentary information.

Photo - Pyramid Texts in the Pyramid of Teti

Originally published July 4, 2009 | Zahi Hawass' Photo Blog

Courtesy of the SCA, this picture showcases the inside of the Sixth Dynasty king's pyramid in Saqqara, complete with pyramid text, ceiling art, and his sarcophagus.

La madre de Tutankhamon podría ser Beneretmut, la hermana pequeña de Nefertiti

Originally published June 27, 2009 | Teleprensa World

Could Nefertit's younger sister, Beneretmut, be Tutankhamun's mother? Follow the link to read the theory.

I've also provided a link to read this article in English (Google Translation). It's not very good, but you'll get the gist of it.

Egyptologist Pulls Together Threads Woven Through Ancient Civilizations

Originally published June 30, 2009 | UCLA Today | by Meg Sullivan

The anticipated new six-part series that will be airing on the Discovery Channel entitled Out of Egypt follows Kara Cooney and other authorities in discovering reasonable explanations for parallels in religious and burial traditions and settlement patterns across a range of cultures with no documented previous contact with each other. They will trace themes and variations on six traditions across 12 cultures and 10 countries. In addition, this article describes the series' development.

The Mummy Returns - More on the Ulster Museum Mummy

Originally published June 30, 2009 | Belfast Today

After three years of renovations at the Ulster Museum, many pieces, including the most popular resident (a mummy named Takabuti), are slowly making their way back. There isn't a set date for the re-opening of the museum, but they expect a throng when it does. A little background on Takabuti is chronicled in this article, among other things.

Egyptian Mummy Returns to Stonyhurst

Originally published July 1, 2009 | Independent Catholic News

Now that Stonyhurst College at Lancashire has better facilities to care for a mysterious boy mummy of noble background, he makes his way back from the Manchester Museum, which had investigated the deceased using forensic science and x-rays.

Culture Minister Approves Program to Train Museum Staff Nationwide

Originally published June 28, 2009 | Egypt State Information Service

Announced at ESIS is a new training program and facility for museum secretaries and antiquities inspectors nationwide, some aspects of this endeavor is with German cooperation.

Los Altos Library Hosts King Tut Lectures

Originally published July 1, 2009 | Los Altos Town Crier

The Los Altos main library has scheduled three lectures describing different aspects of the M.H. de Young Museum's Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs exhibition, which include an overview of the exhibit and lectures on tombs and women in ancient times. This announcement also provides when each lecture occurs, where and when they will be held, and a phone number for more information.

Podcast - FAMSF Curator of Ancient Art Renee Dreyfus Talks About Tut in '79 and Now

Originally published July 3, 2009 | FAMSF

Listen to (download, and/or subscribe to) the podcast posted on the FAMSF web site, where the curator of the current Tutankhamun exhibit, who was on the curatorial team for the one in '79, talks about both exhibits.

Report Back on Valley of Kings and KV57 Horemheb

Originally published June 27, 2009 | Luxor News Blog by Jane Akshar

Breaking news from the Valley of the Kings: Horemheb's tomb (KV57) is now open and excavations will be underway at KV55.

King Tut's Menagerie: Animal Gods in Ancient Egypt

Originally published June 29, 2009 | SF International Insight Travel Examiner | by Laurie McAndish King

King showcases several of the artifacts from Tutankhamun's exhibit, currently at the M.H. de Young Museum. Each artifact is accompanied by a picture and a brief description. Exhibit and museum information is provided at the bottom.

How Chemistry Can Reveal the Secrets of Ancient Worlds

Originally published June 30, 2009 | Physorg

The day-to-day lives of prehistoric humans have been revealed following new research developed by chemists at the University of Bristol. The research, which combines archaeology with cutting-edge chemistry allowing scientists to reconstruct the past, will be presented at the Royal Society’s annual Summer Science Exhibition.

Met Vets Grab Buyouts

Originally published June 30, 2009 | ARTINFO

This mini article announces that several veterans of New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art have agreed to early retirement, a few of which specialize in various areas of Ancient Egyptian study.

Press Release - Fortified Garrison Town Discovered in the Northeastern Delta

Originally published July 1, 2009 | Zahi Hawass' Blog

A handful of pictures illustrate this blog post, which gives a more comprehensive description of the discoveries made at Tel Dafna, which include a mud brick temple and palace, storage magazines, drainage networks, pottery vessels, Amphora, grinding stones, amulets, and alabaster pots. Hawass and Maksoud give their accounts of the discoveries including the "who," "what," and "when." It ends with a generic list of people involved in the discovery.

Who's in the Alexander Sarcophagus?

Originally published July 1, 2009 | The Wall Street Journal | by Judith H. Dobrzynski

This article examines the history of Sidon, ancient past and somewhat recent, and the treasures it has revealed, particularly a fantastically beautiful burial chamber depicting Alexander in battle and at hunt in high-relief, which until recently had been thought to have been Alexander's resting place. Yet, there is still disagreement as to the mystery of the Alexander Sarcophagus, but not to its craftsmanship.

The article goes on to describe the composition and history of each scene depicted on all sides of the sarcophagus, which also depicts Hephaestion among other things and beings. A pictures is provided to give you an idea from where this awe is originating.

Ancient Military Town Dating Back to 26th Dynasty Discovered in Ismailiya

Originally published June 30, 2009 | Egypt State Information Service

Tel Dafna is the most recent location to uncover it's archaeological secrets, an environ that had been used by Ramesses II and belonged to king Ibsemalik I.

Archaeology Magazine Online Survey and Sweepstakes

Accessed July 1, 2009 | Archaeology Magazine Online

Archaeology Magazine invites you to take their 2009 online survey to help them learn more about their web site visitors, the results of which will help improve Archaeology.org

The survey takes less than 10 minutes, after which you are given the chance to enter to win one of two ExOfficio Gift Certificates ($250 value). You have to provided some personal info, but it is confidential.

Archaeologists Uncover Secrets of Daily Life Among the Great Pyramids of Giza

Originally published June 28, 2009 | The Columbus Dispatch | by Doug Caruso

This article examines what Mark Lehner and his team have uncovered and plan to do with their findings near the Giza Necropolis: lots of structures and streets and plenty of artifacts that give their discoverers a good look at how the pyramid builders and their families lived, all of which will be brought to a lab to be analyzed. The article also lists Lehner's and various members of his team's mission and contributions, particularly to the COSI exhibit, Lost Egypt.

The Mummy Returns

Originally published June 29, 2009 | BBC News - Northern Ireland

The Ulster Museum reopens in October and with it the display of a mummified girl, whose popularity is expected to bring visitors back to the museum. Read this article to learn a little more about her.

Mark (Lehner) and Me (Zahi Hawass)

Originally published June 30, 2009 | Zahi Hawass' Blog | by Dr. Hawass

Hawass reflects on how he first met Mark Lehner and how they've been close friends since then. He recalls the time when he crossed paths with Lehner's acquaintances who followed the Cayce mythology; when the two joined forces in the States to give 10 lectures across the country; and when he and Lehner worked on their doctorates in the States and eventually when their separate ways upon completion (he to Egypt and Lehner to Chicago). Hawass concludes with how recent filming near the Great Sphinx at Giza brought both men back to their earlier years and past endeavors together.