Shashotep-Shutb: An Ancient City Rediscovered

Abstract

• The British Museum Asyut Region Project aims at reconstructing and preserving the deep history of the Asyut region through survey and documentation of its pharaonic and post-pharaonic heritage, including the varied responses of local communities who live atop the layers of history below. Two initial field seasons have concentrated on the modern village of Shutb, 5 km south of Asyut, which is believed to perch on top of the remains of ancient Shashotep. Documentation of (part of) the tell and an augering survey in its immediate surroundings confirm the presence of ancient remains underneath the modern village. Engagement with the most recent layers of history includes the documentation of Shutb’s outstanding vernacular architecture and capacity building and awareness sessions with local stakeholders.