Newly Discovered Egyptian Mummies Offer Clues to Famous Queen’s Tomb

Category: Lifestyle/Entertainment

Listening

Unlocking Word Meanings

Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

  1. tomb / tum / (n) – a stone structure where the dead are buried
    Example:

    Several fans visited the tomb of the late actor.


  2. charismatic / ˌkær ɪzˈmæt ɪk / (adj) – showing great appeal or charm
    Example:

    The charismatic presidential candidate gained a lot of supporters.


  3. further / ˈfɜr ðər / (v) – to help something progress or develop
    Example:

    My colleagues’ support helped me further my position in the company.


  4. reign / reɪn / (n) – the period during which a king, queen, or monarch rules
    Example:

    The king’s reign only lasted for two years before he died.


  5. pivotal / ˈpɪv ə tl / (adj) – having importance
    Example:

    The protests were pivotal in the creation of new labor laws.


Article

Read the text below.

Liverpool University archaeologists recently found Egyptian mummies that could finally help archaeologists uncover the long-lost burial tomb of the legendary Egyptian pharaoh [FAIR-oh] Cleopatra.


Cleopatra is widely known as Egypt’s last ruler. She was an intelligent, charismatic politician who furthered Egypt’s political goals during her reign.


Although many people know about her life, the location of Cleopatra’s tomb remains a mystery. Some believe that her final resting place is in Alexandria, her birthplace and the city from where she ruled the country. Others suggest that she was buried in the temple of Taposiris Magna, which is 97 kilometers away from Cairo.


Now, the Liverpool University archaeologists may have finally found new clues about the location of the ancient ruler’s tomb. In the Taposiris Magna temple, they uncovered two mummies belonging to high-status Egyptians. The mummies were estimated to have lived during Cleopatra’s time. They were originally covered with gold leaves, a luxury given only to important members of Egyptian society. Scientists suggest that they might have been priests who played pivotal roles during Cleopatra’s reign and that they might have interacted with the queen herself.


Apart from the mummies, 200 coins with Cleopatra’s name and face were discovered at the temple altar. Because of this discovery, Dr. Kathleen Martinez, head of the excavations, is positive that Cleopatra’s tomb will be discovered in the temple. Egyptian history expert Dr. Glenn Godenho affirmed Martinez’s hunch, saying that the new clues they found directly link Cleopatra to the ancient temple.


Viewpoint Discussion

Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.

Discussion A

• Do you believe that Cleopatra’s tomb is indeed in the temple? Why or why not?
• Do you think confirming the location of Cleopatra’s tomb is still relevant? Why or why not?

Discussion B

• Do you think scientists/archaeologists should always be allowed to explore tombs/burial grounds? Why or why not?
• How can scientists/archaeologists ensure their safety when exploring tombs/burial grounds? Discuss.