Iliad fragment found in Roman-era mummy

"The mummy was found in a necropolis at the ancient site of Oxyrhynchus, revealing a papyrus fragment of Homer's Iliad, specifically the Index of Ships from Book 2."

"Excavations unearthed several mummies, some in wooden coffins, with notable finds including gold and copper tongue inserts and traces of gold leaf applied post-mummification."

"The site offers valuable insights into burial traditions in Bahnasa during the Greek and Roman eras, with discoveries of cremated remains and terracotta and bronze statues."

A papyrus fragment of Homer's Iliad was discovered in a Roman-era mummy in Egypt's Minya Governorate. The text identified is the Index of Ships from Book 2. A Spanish-Egyptian team excavated several mummies, some in wooden coffins and others wrapped in bandages. Notable finds include gold and copper tongue inserts, traces of gold leaf, and poorly preserved painted wooden coffins. Excavations also revealed limestone burial chambers containing cremated remains and animal remains, along with terracotta and bronze statues, providing insights into burial traditions during the Greek and Roman eras.

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