The first astronomical observatory in history dates back to Ancient Egypt
In the heart of ancient Egypt, a team of Egyptian archaeologists recently unveiled an extraordinary discovery: an ancient astronomical observatory dting back to the 6th century BCE. The discovery at Tell Al-Faraeen, the ancient city of Buto, in the Kafr El-Sheikh governorate, sheds new light on the Egyptians' ability to monitor and understand celestial phenomena.
The Astronomical Observatory
Three years ago archaeologists started excavations at the site of Tell Al-Faraeen. What initially appeared to be a simple temple turned out to be an advanced astronomical observatory. The structure, which measures over 850 square meters, is characterized by mud-brick architecture and has an L-shape, with an entrance facing east. This strategic orientation was designed to allow the observer, typically a priest known as "smn pe," to monitor the movement of the sun and stars.
Hossam Ghonim, General Director of Antiquities of Kafr El-Sheikh and head of the Egyptian archaeological mission, stated: "Everything we found has exceeded our expectations." Among the most significant discoveries is an inclined sundial, an ancient solar clock that used the shadows cast by the sun to determine key moments of the day, such as sunrise, noon, and sunset. This simple yet sophisticated instrument confirms the precision and complexity of Egyptian astronomical techniques.
Astronomical Instruments and Symbolism
Several other time-measuring instruments were found at the site, including a device known as a "merkhet," used to determine the position of stars and thus calculate significant dates for the Egyptian solar calendar. Additionally, inscriptions and carvings depicting symbols such as Chen, Cenet, and Benu, all related to astronomy and time, were discovered. The presence of a sundial and a "merkhet" indicates that the Egyptians not only observed celestial phenomena but also integrated them into their dating systems and ritual practices.
An inscribed stone within the structure displays astronomical views of sunrise and sunset across three seasons, reflecting their complex understanding of seasonal cycles and variations in day length. This particular artifact is the first of its kind ever discovered and provides important evidence of how the Egyptians visualized and mapped their cosmic environment.
The Importance of the Site
The site of Tell Al-Faraeen, anciently known as Buto, was dedicated to the goddess Wadjet, a protective serpent deity of the king. The discovery of statues and religious depictions, such as those of the gods Horus and Osiris, along with numerous ritual objects, demonstrates the cultural and spiritual significance of the observatory. The presence of a granite statue of King Psamtik I of the 26th Dynasty, and figures of Osiris with a serpent, highlights the dual role of the observatory: not only as a center for scientific study but also as a place for spiritual and ceremonial practices.
The pillars at the entrance of the structure, arranged in an unusual manner compared to traditional monuments, suggest a tripartite division of time into seasons, months, and weeks, further reflecting the sophisticated temporal conception of the Egyptians. The observatory, with its two symmetrical pylons, frames the horizon point where the sun rose, an element representing the akhet, or the horizon itself, indicating that the site was likely also used for observing constellations.
Understanding Astronomical Practices
The discovery of the astronomical observatory at Tell Al-Faraeen demonstrates that ancient egyptian knowledge was far more advanced than previously imagined.
The observatory at Buto is not only a testament to the scientific expertise of the ancient Egyptians but also a reminder of their ability to integrate celestial knowledge with their religious and ritual beliefs. The discovery represents a fundamental piece for understanding how ancient peoples interacted with their cosmic environment and how these interactions influenced their daily lives and religious practices.
