afrol News, 1 March - Archaeologists have made a discovery of a massive stone head depicting one of Egypt's most famous Pharaohs who ruled nearly 3,400 years ago in the city of Luxor, government officials have announced in the statement.

The old head of Amenhotep III, the grandfather of Tutankhamun was dug out of the ruins of the Pharaoh's mortuary temple, the government statement said.

Experts say it is the best preserved example of the king's face ever found.

The Egyptian-European expedition has been excavating the temple, near the seated colossi of Memnon, for several years.

The 2.5m (8ft) head is part of a larger statue, most of which was found several years ago.

Antiquities officials say the statue is to be reconstructed.

Scientists using DNA tests and CT scans on several mummies have identified him as the grandfather of Tutankhamun, the boy-king born of an incestuous marriage between Akhenaten and his sister, both the offspring of Amenhotep III.

Amenhotep III, the grandfather of Tutankhamun, ruled from 1387-1348BC at the height of Egypt's New Kingdom period.

By staff writer

© afrol News

Related pages and feature

Current afrol News Top Stories