A joint Chinese–Egyptian archaeological mission has uncovered a previously unknown sacred lake within the Karnak Temple Complex, offering new insights into ritual life in ancient Egypt. The discovery was made at the Temple of Montu, west of the Temple of Maat, in Luxor.
The newly identified basin is rectangular, measuring about 6.5 by 6 metres and covering more than 50 square metres. Archaeologists believe it was dedicated to the cult of Maat, reflecting practices linked to truth, justice and cosmic order. The structure is notably well preserved, built from mud brick and sandstone, and includes a staircase along its eastern wall, suggesting controlled access for ceremonial use.
Excavation evidence indicates that the lake underwent several phases of reinforcement and restoration, spanning from Egypt’s 30th Dynasty through the Roman period. One reused sandstone block incorporated into the staircase appears to date even earlier, possibly originating from a 25th Dynasty gateway of the Temple of Maat.
Named the “Southern Sacred Lake,” the basin complements another sacred lake already known at Karnak. Together, they form a rare twin-lake configuration within a single temple precinct—an arrangement seldom encountered in ancient Egyptian religious architecture.
Surrounding excavations also yielded cattle jawbones and reused inscribed stone blocks associated with royal figures and the Divine Adoratrice of Amun from the Late Period. Researchers say these finds will help refine the dating of the lake and deepen understanding of ritual activities carried out at Karnak, reinforcing the site’s standing as one of ancient Egypt’s most significant religious centres.