1. Number the mastabas
Catalogue all mastabas in the study area and classify them geographically.
Preserving ancient Egyptian heritage through sustainable conservation and scientific documentation.
The vegetation rooted around the mastabas contributes to the degradation of the dispersed and relocated blocks; we will proceed to the weeding and cleaning of the areas.
In addition, the stone blocks will be exhibited in a classified and scientific way for the grand open museum display and to allow future researchers on the temples of Karnak proper and secure access to them.
Archaeological work around this area has concentrated mainly on the Osirian chapels. Researchers such as Henri Chevrier, Clément Robichon, Donald Redford and others contributed to the unearthing of these buildings and the identification of several phases of development within the Osirian necropolis.
More recently the Project "Sanctuaires osiriens de Karnak" has directed the excavation history. This global context helps us situate the Karnak stones within the broader development of the complex and informs our conservation strategies.
The main objective of this project is to achieve sustainable preservation for the stone blocks on and around the mastabas in the temples of Karnak to prevent further damage and decay.
To achieve this aim, we began with a global analysis of the blocks comprising the epigraphic study (iconography, iconology, writing and description of the supporting materials) in the context of the structures included in the Karnak complex and their relationship with those located on the West Bank and in the broad Estate of Amun. At the same time we characterise the pathologies of the stone and identify the natural and anthropic causes that have contributed to their alteration and deterioration, adopting solutions for their long‑term preservation.
Catalogue all mastabas in the study area and classify them geographically.
Assign unique identifiers to every stone block on the mastabas and geolocate them accurately.
Group the blocks by material (sandstone, limestone, alabaster, granite) and size (small, moderate, massive) within each mastaba.
Remove vegetation around the mastabas, then document and study decay patterns and influencing factors for all blocks.
Apply restoration and conservation treatments to decayed stone surfaces.
Create detailed records of each stone block through photographs, drawings and field notes.
Capture the blocks using digital technologies (3D scanning and photogrammetry) for an online exhibition.
Verify that the current mastabas are not built over previously unknown archaeological remains.
Construct new mastabas with sturdy stands to properly display and protect the stone blocks.
Prepare interpretive signage and arrange the stones for public viewing and educational purposes.
Disseminate the annual results through scientific publications and outreach in Arabic, English and Spanish.
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