A groundbreaking new study of ancient skeletons found in pyramid tombs in Tombos, Nubia is challenging long-held assumptions about who was buried in Egypt’s iconic structures. Previously, archaeologists believed only elite individuals were laid to rest inside pyramids. But after over a decade of continued excavation and detailed analysis of bone structure, researchers now say that some pyramid burials may have included physically labor-intensive workers and individuals of lower status.
The study examined muscle and ligament attachment points on the skeletons—known as entheseal changes—to assess how physically demanding their lives had been. Contrary to past interpretations, the results showed a broader range of physical activity levels. Some skeletons, even those buried in elaborate Egyptian-style pyramid complexes, showed signs of intense manual labor, while others indicated more sedentary lifestyles typical of scribes or craftsmen.
This contrast reshapes our understanding of social hierarchy in ancient Tombos. Burial types—whether pyramid, shaft, or Nubian-style tumulus—once thought to reflect rigid class divisions, may instead reveal a more complex cultural blend of Egyptians and Nubians, where identity and status weren’t solely defined by occupation or ethnicity.
Ultimately, the study suggests that pyramid tombs were not exclusively reserved for the elite. Instead, they may have reflected a more diverse cross-section of society. Researchers say this discovery highlights the importance of reexamining archaeological data with fresh methods and perspectives, as even long-established beliefs about ancient civilizations can be rewritten.
