09 September 2023 , 16:42
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Historians in Egypt believe they could be close to uncovering the long-lost tomb of Mark Antony and Cleopatra. Archaeologists believe they have identified the hidden location of the crypt in which they say the leaders are buried together.
"The long-lost tomb of Antony and Cleopatra will be eventually uncovered. The burial site has been finally estimated to be in the region of Taposiris Magna, 30km (18 miles) away from Alexandria," Egyptian archaeologist Zahi Hawass said. The historian, who has vast experience in archaeology, added: "I hope to find the tomb of Antony and Cleopatra soon. I do believe that they are buried in the same tomb.
"We are so close to discover the accurate location of the tomb; we are on the right way. We know where exactly we have to dig." Cleopatra VII Philopator was the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom in Egypt. According to popular belief, she and Mark Antony committed suicide in August 30 BC when she was 39 by allowing an asp to bite them.
But some claim she was in murdered and say discovering her body will help provide evidence to prove it. Mark Antony, or Marcus Antonius, was a Roman politician and general. He was assigned Rome's eastern provinces, including the client kingdom of Egypt, then ruled by Cleopatra.
It comes days after an ancient royal hall dating back to the era of Ramses II was previously discovered near to the identified Cleopatra site. It was unearthed below soft-brick buildings and commercial residential areas. The hall was used to hold royal celebrations such as the Jubilee feast.
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