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Egypt: Guide Caught Vandalizing 4,000-Year-Old Pyramid
27 Feb
Summary
- A tour guide was arrested for allegedly sketching on the Pyramid of Unas.
- The 4,000-year-old structure contained the earliest known Pyramid Texts.
- Authorities have removed the markings and taken legal action against the guide.
An Egyptian tour guide has been arrested and faces legal proceedings for allegedly drawing on the exterior of the 4,000-year-old Pyramid of Unas. The incident occurred while the guide was reportedly explaining the site to tourists, and a video of the act gained traction on social media.
Authorities were alerted after an antiquities inspector filed a report. The suspect was apprehended and confessed to damaging the antiquity. Legal measures have been initiated, and specialists have successfully removed the markings.
The Pyramid of Unas, located in the Saqqara necropolis near ancient Memphis, is renowned for containing the earliest known Pyramid Texts. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a crucial part of Egypt's rich history, drawing millions of visitors annually.
Egypt continues to strengthen its preservation efforts for ancient monuments. Damaging archaeological sites is a serious offense under Egyptian law, potentially leading to prison sentences and substantial fines.
