In the 19th century, archaeologist Jacques de Morgan conducted excavations at the Dashur pyramid complex, located south of Cairo, where the remains of King Hor and five princesses: Ita, Khenmet, Itaweret, Noub-Hotep, and Sathathormeryt were discovered. The sarcophagi of these women, four of them sisters, were richly decorated and contained weapons such as arrows and daggers. These findings were stored in the Egyptian Museum until recent studies revealed new data about their use.
Egyptian princesses and the use of weapons in antiquity
For a long time, researchers have debated the purpose of the weapons found in the tombs of certain princesses of ancient Egypt. Egyptologists discussed whether they were ceremonial objects, symbolic offerings, or practical utensils. However, a recent study, published in Frontiers in Environmental Archaeology, has indicated that these women were not only capable of making weapons but also of using them regularly.
The analysis was conducted by a team led by Zeinab Hashesh from Beni-Suef University, Ahmed Gabr from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in Cairo, and Roxie Walker from the Institute of Bioarchaeology in London. These experts have applied advanced technologies to reveal that Egyptian royal women participated in demanding physical activities such as archery and hunting.
According to Hashesh, the muscular development in the skeletons of the princesses indicates that the frequent use of weapons such as bows and daggers was part of their daily lives. This finding is reflected in the presence of such weapons in their tombs, which were more than just symbolic gifts.
Pharaoh Hor, belonging to the 13th Dynasty, ruled around 1777 B.C., during a time of instability. Princesses Ita, Khenmet, Itaweret, and Sathathormeryt were daughters of Pharaoh Amenemhat II, of the 12th Dynasty. Although Noub-Hotep was found alongside Hor, it has not been confirmed whether she was his daughter or his wife.
The study of the mummified remains revealed that Princess Ita was a young woman, aged between 28 and 34 years, who showed robust musculature, suggesting the use of heavy weapons. In contrast, Princess Khenmet, aged between 30 and 40 years, showed signs of bone wear, but her ligaments were notably strong.
Additionally, Princess Itaweret, who lived between 20 and 34 years, had survived significant fractures, indicating her skill as an archer. Bone evidence also suggests that both Noub-Hotep and King Hor practiced archery.
This analysis also revealed that the princesses and the pharaoh shared advanced medical practices for the time, as shown by the healing of fractures without deformities. The embalming followed a standard protocol for the elite, identified by the mixture of incense and resin.
Archaeological findings indicate that these royal women not only had social privileges but also physical responsibilities comparable to those of the pharaohs. Their position in the Dashur cemetery not only highlights their ritual roles but also their active participation in the protection and regeneration of the pharaoh.
