Ancient Egyptian royal doctor’s tomb reveals medicine, magic connection

Archaeologists working at the historic Saqqara cemetery in Egypt have made a remarkable discovery—a royal tomb belonging to a physician and magician who once served the pharaohs. 

A recently discovered tomb in Egypt sheds light on the historical intertwining of medicine and magic, revealing that both were highly respected in ancient times, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

The expertise in these fields earned an ancient physician, who once served the pharaohs, a prominent position among the most revered figures in the ancient world. While ancient Egypt is primarily celebrated for its architectural wonders, it also made significant advancements in medicine. In fact, the earliest known reference to doctors comes from Egypt. According to surviving records, when the pharaoh fell ill, a physician successfully treated his nasal ailment.

Over their nearly 3,000-year history, the ancient Egyptians revolutionized the field of medicine, making significant advances in understanding the cardiovascular system, treating conditions like dementia and depression, and even pioneering early dental practices.

Now, archaeologists at the renowned Saqqara cemetery have uncovered the tomb of a royal physician, who was also a magician. Saqqara, located in the ancient city of Memphis, is often referred to as an “open-air museum” due to its rich historical significance, according to the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. The site is home to the tombs of kings from Egypt’s first dynasty and the burial of the sacred Apis Bull, the earthly embodiment of the god Ptah. In a January 6 post on Facebook, the ministry announced that a joint French-Swiss archaeological mission had uncovered the mastaba tomb of a royal doctor named Teti Neb Fu, dating back to the Old Kingdom during the reign of King Pepi II.

By Naila Huseynova