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Secrets of Saqqara (Film)

sakkara.jpg
The Secrets of Saqqara
Original name
Secrets of the Saqqara Tomb
Production year
2020
Director
James Tovell
Producer
Lion Television
Genre
Belgesel
IMDb rating
7.2/10

Secrets of the Saqqara Tomb is a documentary released on the Netflix platform in 2020. The production focuses on the archaeological excavation of a 4,500-year-old tomb discovered in the Saqqara region of Egypt, offering new insights into ancient Egyptian civilization. The documentary documents the discovery made by a team of Egyptian archaeologists at the Saqqara Necropolis and the impact of this find on the understanding of ancient Egyptian history and culture.

Subject

The documentary centers on the tomb of Wahtye, a high-ranking priest dating to the Fifth Dynasty of Ancient Egypt, discovered in Saqqara in 2018. Throughout the excavation process, the tomb’s architecture, wall paintings, statues, and mummies are examined in detail and documented using archaeological techniques. The production also includes scientific explanations regarding the history of the Saqqara Necropolis and Egypt’s burial traditions.


Secrets of the Saqqara Tomb Netflix

Thematic Structure

The documentary is structured within the frameworks of archaeology, history, anthropology, and the rituals of ancient Egyptian civilization. Through the perspectives of Egyptian archaeologists, the production highlights local knowledge and expertise, showcasing the scientific curiosity of the excavation team, their awareness of cultural heritage, and the practical application of archaeological methodology in the field. The film also emphasizes social memory and historical consciousness, connecting Egypt’s past with its present.

Production and Release Process

The documentary was directed by James Tovell and produced by Lion Television. Filming took place at the Saqqara Necropolis with the permission of Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities. The production was released to viewers on Netflix on October 28, 2020.

Participants

  • Dr. Mohamed Mohammad Youssef – Archaeologist and Director of Excavations
  • Sabry Farag – Director of the Saqqara Region
  • Dr. Salima Ikram – Egyptologist
  • Members of the Excavation Team and Archaeology Specialists

Awards and Nominations

  • Critics’ Choice Documentary Awards 2021 – Nominated for Best Historical Documentary
  • Jackson Wild Media Awards 2021 – Finalist in the Best Archaeology Documentary category

Author Information

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AuthorBüşranur AkpınarDecember 8, 2025 at 11:45 AM

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Contents

  • Subject

  • Thematic Structure

  • Production and Release Process

  • Participants

  • Awards and Nominations

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