Ask Dr. Hawass

Here are RECENT ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS E-MAILED TO DR. HAWASS:


From: Ella Kalantarian

Hello Dr Zahi Hawass

My name is Ella Kalantarian. I am a big fan of yours. When I grow up I would want to be a Egyptologist. I love studying about Egypt. I read the book called CURSE OF THE PHARAOHS it was a very good book. I read about Carter and heart attacks and the curse, it was wonderful. I wish I knew Arabic but all of the people I know are too busy to teach me but I really wish that I knew. Oh yeah, that girl named DINA I read about her I think she is very lucky to see you. I wish I could see you, that would be a dream. Please write back to me. My question is how much money do you get and how much do you need to know at the age of 11 to know a lot about Egypt . That is my question. I have seen you on TV.  I could never miss one of the history that you tell younger people. I think it is amazing that you're in charge of Giza. Please write back, it would be a honor.  I love the things about you, you're my role model!

      -ur #1 fan Ella Kalantarian

PS: I am from Armenia we have a lot of the same food and and tiny words with Arabic but that's not enough to speak it and my mom got the book you wrote she and I read it and we were amazed she likes archeology too.

Dear Ella,

 Thank you for your wonderful letter. I am always very happy to hear from an aspiring young Egyptologist.

 Egyptology is my passion, my love, and my life! I have had a wonderful career and have discovered many secrets. My discovery of the Valley of the Golden Mummies in Bahariya Oasis is considered the greatest discovery since the tomb of King Tut. We have discovered 234 mummies to date. Each mummy tells a story. In answer to your question - You do not need a lot of money when you are young to study and learn about Egyptology. Every discovery is an adventure! I live for these moments. I can’t describe them, and I think you need to experience them for yourself. Therefore, I recommend that read everything you can on Egyptology, study very hard and when you get ready to go to university go to the University of Pennsylvania, Brown University, John Hopkins University, or UCLA and become an Egyptologist.

I hope that you will travel to Egypt soon and see its magic and mystery for yourself.

See you in Egypt.  

Best Wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: "Steve LeMaster"
Subject: Tourism and conservation issue

Dear Dr. Hawass

I enjoy visiting your site and every time I do, I see something new and exciting. What are your plans to balance tourism and conservation of monuments at Giza?

This will be a monumental task.

Regards,

Steve LeMaster
Webmaster/Chief Moderator

Dear Steve, 

I was very happy to hear that you like my website. Balancing tourism and the preservations of the monuments is very important. One of the things I am most proud of in my career is the site management project in Giza. It has many aspects and I plan to implement them at all the historical sites in Egypt. For example, a rotation system, having one pyramid closed for cleaning and restoration and two pyramids open to the public. Each year a different pyramid would be closed. Also rotate the tombs that are open to the public. When people come to Giza they often just come to visit the Great pyramid, the Valley Temple of Khafre and they only spend about two hours at the site. They are missing so much, there are beautiful and historic tombs that we have opened to the public and are promoting. This will take some of the stress off of the high traffic areas. We have worked on cleaning up the site, keeping the venders at bay. We have restricted the number of people that can enter the Great Pyramid to 150 a day to keep the moister and other eroding factors under control. Also, we have just completed a new entrance to the pyramid area and we are working on stopping all vehicle traffic. We will have an information center and electric cars that transport the tourist. We built a picnic ground. Many tourist come to the pyramids, especially on holidays just to have a picnic under the shadow of the pyramids, by creating a place for them we are controlling the congestion near the monuments. We are opening mew sites. And we have opened more tombs at the most popular sites We have extended the hours the Egyptian Museum is open. Until recently it closed at 4:30 and now it is open until 7pm. This will stop the rush and keep the crowds under control. I have also decided that no mission will be granted permission for new excavation projects from Giza to Abu Simbel. Teams will only be granted permission to do survey, restoration, GIS, and site management work.  However, I will give permission for new excavation in the Delta and the desert.

Thanks for your great question,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: Dylan Smythers

Let me start by telling you I'm a huge fan of all your programs. I would also love to come and see all the wonderful things to enjoy in Egypt but my long life dream of seeing this place before I die is just a dream that will never come true unless I was to win a bunch of money. That's also just a dream. I'm 26 years old an have a wife and two step kids that are also very interested in seeing the wonders of Egypt. I also would like to know what kind of dig you are currently working on please e-mail me when you find time and good luck on your expedition.

Dear Dylan:

Thank you for your wonderful letter. I am always very happy to hear from people who share my passion for ancient Egypt. 

Egyptology is my passion, my love, and my life! I have had a wonderful career and have discovered many secrets. Currently we are working in Ain Shams (suburb of Cairo) and we have found the remains of a temple dating to the New Kingdom and several fragments of statues. This discovery is in a populated area and the SCA is in the process of purchasing the land so we can continue the excavation. If you refer to my book, "Secrets from the Sand" you can read about the other discoveries we have made in this area such as the tomb of Wadjhor.

I hope that you will travel to Egypt soon and see its magic and mystery for yourself.

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: judy marth

Dear Dr. Hawass,

This is not a question, but I do have a comment....

I never tire of watching your programs on Discovery or National Geographic channels, and listening to the great wealth of knowledge you impart.  I have always been fascinated by ancient Egypt and her people - what a wonderful and exquisite culture!  I envy you in that you have the opportunities to discover and bring to light people and things that have been forgotten over the centuries - a real privilege.  But mostly, I have the utmost respect for you as you never let us forget that just because someone has been dead for a thousand years does not mean that they are unworthy of careful and respectful treatment.  You are obviously proud and protective of your country and its heritage.

The "King Tut" exhibit will be in Chicago at the Field Museum of Natural History next year.  As a member, I can't wait to see it and I'll be the first in line!

Oh, and your website is awesome!   

Sincerely,
Judy Marth

Chicago, IL

Dear Judy,

Thank you for your wonderful letter. I am always very happy to hear from people who share my passion for ancient Egypt. 

Have a great time at the Tut Exhibit in Chicago.

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: Shannon Belzevick

Hello and greetings from Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada. I wanted to let you know, your work is my inspiration!

I have been following what you do, through various sites such as http://guardians.net/hawass/Fan_Club/questions_and_answers.htm, Discovery and the like.

My personal opinion is you are the ONLY authority about everything Egypt in general, and some day I wish to meet with you.

I was wondering, would there even be a remote chance of studying under you? This has been my life long dream, even if I cant make it to Egypt, but to learn from one of the masters.

I live, eat, breath, and sleep Egyptology. Words cannot describe really how badly I want to go over there, and see it through the eyes that few get to see.

Just thought I would let you know, your work is amazing, and holds many precious things for us all. I look up to you, and one day hope to follow in your shoes. Work wise, you are my hero!

Talk to you later, I hope this email reaches you. Please contact me, if you have any questions!

Angie Shannon Belzevick 

Dear Angie,

Thank you for your wonderful letter. I am always very happy to hear from an aspiring young Egyptologist.  If you come to Egypt, please contact my office and I will be very glad to meet with you. Good luck with your studies. I believe that it is your generation that will continue what I have started.

Hope to see you in Egypt,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: "stephanie palma"

 Dear Dr. Hawass

My name is Stephanie Palma and I am a student at Brawley Union High School in Brawley,Ca. I am a senior this year and part of my graduation requirement is to complete a senior project by writing a research paper. My research paper topic is "Large Statuary in Classical Egypt: Efforts and Methods at Stabilizaton/Restoration". Im doing research I came upon your site and saw an article on the restoration of he Sphinx of Giza. so I would like to ask you if you would let me interview you for my paper. The interview is only six questions long dealing with restoring large statuary in Egypt. Thank you for your time. Here are my questions:

1. What is the best strategy to raise money to restore any of the wonders of the ancient world?


2. Has anyone reconstructed any large Egyptian statues in the last decade?


3. How long does it take a crew to restore classical Egyptian statuary?


4. How much would it cost to rebuild a statue like the Sphinx at Giza and how many people would it take to rebuild it?


5. What materials would one need to remodel a statue? Are there any specific building material/tools one would use?


6. What specific training does the builder of constructer have to have to reconstruct a statue?

From: Ashley Hall

Dr. Hawass,

             Hello, my name is Ashley Hall and I am currently attending college to earn my degree in Fine Arts.  I am writing a research paper for a class and I  have chosen to write about the controversy over whether art should be rebuilt the way that people believe it might have been, or should it just be preserved the way that it is now.  I would greatly appreciate any information from such an accredited person. 

Thank you for taking the time to read my email.

                                          Sincerely,

                                                Ashley Hall

 

Dear Stephanie and Ashley,

 Thank you for your letter. In order to maintain the integrity of the ancient Egyptian monuments it is important not to re-build or re-construct them. Therefore, I only believe in minimal restoration and ongoing conservation.

Good luck in your studies,
Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: Mike Fehr

Dear Dr. Hawass,

    I am currently doing a university research project on The Great Pyramid of Giza (Khufu) and was wondering if you could share some insights you have had from working directly on the Pyramid with me.

    First, I was wondering how many chambers are there in The Great Pyramid?  The common images only show a few, the main ones, but I am wondering if there are in fact many chambers in the pyramid, that due to lack of a useful function, are left off of diagrams.

    Secondly, I was wondering what you believe to be the age of both the Great Pyramid and The Sphinx.

    Third, I wanted to know whether or not there were ever any plans to restore The Great Pyramid to it's former glory?

Thank you for your time.

Michael Fehr.

Dear Michael,

Thank you for your letter. I am always happy to hear from people who share my passion for Egyptology. To answer your questions I think you should a great book, "Treasures of the Pyramids", that has many articles by the top scholars in the field and was edited by myself.

Good luck with your research,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: marzena_lichocka

Dear Dr Hawass!

 My name is Marzena Lichocka. I am from Poland. The history of ancient Egypt intrigues me a great deal. I am extremely fascinated by your achievements in Egyptology, your discoveries and adventures.

I intend to visit Egypt. I have heard of your public lectures. I would like to ask about your upcoming lecture schedule for nearest months- started from November 2005. Where can I find it (web site/ contact person at the AUC perhaps)?. Thank you in advance for information you can give me. I shall be grateful for any help.  I do hope I am not putting you to much trouble. 

I am looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

Marzena Lichocka

 

Dear Marzena:

Thank you for your wonderful letter. I am always very happy to hear from people who share my passion for ancient Egypt. My lectures are listed on my website.

Hope you come to Egypt soon to see the magic and mystery for yourself.

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: "Holly Shingler" 

Dear Dr Zahi Hawass,

          I just wanted to know; how does it feel to open a tomb that hasn't been touched since the time of the Pharaoh’s, and to be the only person who has set foot in there for thousands of years?  Especially when the tomb hasn't been touched by Grave Robber's and the artifacts are still intact, as well as the mummy. It must be so exhilarating to find something that nobody from this day and age has laid eyes upon let alone seen anything so beautiful and unique that (in some cases) is older than Christ. I would love to hear back from you.

Yours Sincerely,
Holly Shingler (Telford, England).

 

Dear Holly,

Thank you for your letter. In order to answer your question I think I will tell you how I became an Egyptologist and how my passion and love for Egyptology began.

 When I was young I had no idea about archeology. In fact, I only visited the pyramids once when I was 12 years old.  I came to Cairo from my village to visit my aunt and one day she took me to see the pyramids. When I finished high school, I wanted to be a lawyer because I wanted to defend people and I had seen lots of lawyers in the movies and I admired them and wanted to be like them. When I went to the University of Alexandria I bought many law books and when I started to read them I found that I did not like the study of law. I realized that I did not want to be a lawyer; I did not want to practice law.  I began to look for something else and I went to the Faculty of Arts and they told me about a new department called Archaeology. I had no idea what this was. I joined and stayed 4 years in this department. I focused on the Greco- Roman Period.  During my study I found that this was not something that I really liked or wanted to do.  When I graduated, I joined the Department of Antiquities in 1988 and became an Inspector of Antiquities. And even at that time, I wanted to change my career. I decided that I wanted to become a diplomat. I studied for one year and I passed the written exam but I could not pass the oral exam. Then I went back to the Department of Antiquities. After one year the Antiquities Department decided that I would become a member of an expedition that was excavating a site in the delta called Kom Abuo Bellou. I left Cairo and went to this site located in the desert of the Delta. On this site we discovered a large Pharaonic cemetery and one-day I discovered a tomb and I found in the niche of this tomb a beautiful statue. And then I took a brush and started to clean the sand from the statue – at that moment I found that the eyes of the statue were looking at my eyes and this touched my heart and I said that I found my love and my love is Archaeology! Since that time I have dedicated my life to archeology and I give passion to my work.  

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: "Rick Mitchell" 

Dear Dr Hawass

My girlfriend Gail, who has always had an avid interest in all things Egyptian, has become a tremendous fan of yours. She scans the TV listings for shows that feature your commentary. Is there anyway that I could get an autographed photo of you to present her for the upcoming holidays?

Thank you

Rick Mitchell

Dear Rick,

Thank you for your letter. Please email me your girlfriends name and address and I will send her a letter and autographed photo.

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: "Sharon Graham" 

I'm a young girl and am in love with Egypt!! I live in the United States and work very hard in my high school studies. I am very anxious to become an archeologist and work in Egypt, if my dream comes true I will work under or at least meet you! I am and have been working hard to learn everything about Egypt I can now. Although I'm only in my first year of high school, I plan on learning every language you advise. Thank you for being a great role model and guiding me!

Sincerely,

Laurel Barrett

 

Dear Laurel:

Thank you for your wonderful letter. I am always very happy to hear from an aspiring young Egyptologist.

Egyptology is my passion, my love, and my life! I have had a wonderful career and have discovered many secrets. My discovery of the Valley of the Golden Mummies in Barhariya Oasis is considered the greatest discovery since the tomb of King Tut. We have discovered 250 mummies to date. Each mummy tells a story. In answer to your question - You do not need a lot of money when you are young to study and learn about Egyptology. Every discovery is an adventure! I live for these moments. I can’t describe them, and I think you need to experience them for yourself. Therefore, I recommend that read everything you can on Egyptology, study very hard and when you get ready to go to university go to the University of Pennsylvania, Brown University, John Hopkins University, or UCLA and become an Egyptologist. If you come to Egypt make an appointment with my office and I would be happy to meet you.

See you in Egypt,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: "Zena Thompson" 

Hello Dr Hawass

I have recently been on a visit to Cairo and loved every minute of my time there.  I have always had a love of Egypt and being able to see the pyramids close up was amazing.  I even encourage my 6 year old daughter to learn as much as she can about Egypt.  She already can name quite a few of the Pharaoh’s and Gods.

I have spent the last 9 years in the army and now my Regiment is being disbanded in 2007 myself and another work colleague would love to use our resettlement package doing something that we would both love to do, and that is learn Egyptology.  I was hoping that maybe you could offer some advice on how to go about getting started and maybe how we could put our resettlement budget to some good use.

Thank you for taking the time to read this e-mail.

Zena

Dear Zena,

Thank you for your wonderful letter. I am always happy to hear from people who share my passion for Egyptology. I recommend that you read everything you can and attend courses at university and earn a degree in Egyptology.

Good luck,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: Lmendozae

I'm really interested in Egypt since I read about it, and I want to know where can i study to be an archeologist, you see, I have 13 and I'm thinking where to study archeology, and tell me more about Egyptians. Is there any camp of my age where I can enter to find fossils, see the magic, and beauty of Egypt? Please let me now 'cause I'm really interested in the subject.

 Sincerely,

A fan, Estefany Valdez

 

Dear Estefany:

Thank you for your wonderful letter. I am always very happy to hear from an aspiring young Egyptologist.

Egyptology is my passion, my love, and my life! I have had a wonderful career and have discovered many secrets. My discovery of the Valley of the Golden Mummies in Barhariya Oasis is considered the greatest discovery since the tomb of King Tut. We have discovered 250 mummies to date. Each mummy tells a story. In answer to your question - You do not need a lot of money when you are young to study and learn about Egyptology. Every discovery is an adventure! I live for these moments. I can’t describe them, and I think you need to experience them for yourself. Therefore, I recommend that read everything you can on Egyptology, study very hard and when you get ready to go to university go to the University of Pennsylvania, Brown University, John Hopkins University, or UCLA and become an Egyptologist. If you come to Egypt make an appointment with my office and I would be happy to meet you.

See you in Egypt,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: "D Hurst"

Hello Dr. Hawass,

May I firstly congratulate you on the fine job you are doing. Your comments are always of interest.

I was lucky enough to realise a life long ambition to visit Egypt last November, the Nile cruise was fantastic. By far the best holiday I have had for many years. The Egyptian people are so kind and nothing was too much trouble.....thank you.

The question I have for you is why are the monuments and tombs so cheap to visit?

I am sure visitors would not think twice about paying 2 or 3 times more to visit the temples monuments and tombs. The extra revenue would surely help toward more efficient conservation.

How much would it cost to visit the Tower of London or Buckingham palace?.....

Last question......... Will the treasures of Tutankhamun ever come to England again?

Kindest regards

David Hurst

 

Dear David,

Thank you for your letter. I am always happy to hear from someone who shares my passion for Egyptology. The problem of balancing tourism with the protection of the monuments is a top priority.  Of course your point on the admission fees is valid. One of the things I am most proud of in my career is the site management project in Giza. It has many aspects and I plan to implement them at all the historical sites in Egypt. For example, a rotation system, having one pyramid closed for cleaning and restoration and two pyramids open to the public. Each year a different pyramid would be closed. Also rotate the tombs that are open to the public. When people come to Giza they often just come to visit the Great pyramid, the Valley Temple of Khafre and they only spend about two hours at the site. They are missing so much, there are beautiful and historic tombs that we have opened to the public and are promoting. This will take some of the stress off of the high traffic areas. We have worked on cleaning up the site, keeping the venders at bay. We have restricted the number of people that can enter the Great Pyramid to 150 a day to keep the moister and other eroding factors under control. Also, we have just completed a new entrance to the pyramid area and we are working on stopping all vehicle traffic. We will have an information center and electric cars that transport the tourist. We built a picnic ground. Many tourist come to the pyramids, especially on holidays just to have a picnic under the shadow of the pyramids, by creating a place for them we are controlling the congestion near the monuments. 

We are opening new sites. And we have opened more tombs at the most popular sites We have extended the hours the Egyptian Museum is open. Until recently it closed at 4:30 and now it is open until 7pm. This will stop the rush and keep the crowds under control. I have also decided that no mission will be granted permission for new excavation projects from Giza to Abu Simbel. Teams will only be granted permission to do survey, restoration, GIS, and site management work.  However, I will give permission for new excavation in the Delta and the desert.

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass

From: "Elizabeth Hintz"

Dear Dr. Zahi Hawass ---
        Hi! My name is Sarah Marsteller, and I am eleven years old. I go to Eastern Middle School and I am in the sixth grade. I have a few questions to ask you. For school, my friends and I are doing a research project on Ancient Egypt. Part of the assignment is to write a diary of someone who lives in Ancient Egypt. We have collected all our info and done all our research, and we basically know what we're going to write, but if you have any tips/hints that you could tell me that would be great. Thanks! --- Sarah

Dear Sarah,

Thank you for your wonderful letter. It sounds like a very interesting project. I would love to read your work. Please email me a copy of your diary entry.

Good luck with your studies,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: "Marianne" 


Dear Dr. Hawass,

I do not have a question.  Please accept my 'thank you.'

Thank you for allowing your beautiful Egypt to be filmed and photographed for the world to see.  My heart is filled with love for your country and I hope to visit at least once in my lifetime.

I was a student at UC Berkeley, earning a degree in Anthropology.  I focused on Mesoamerica, but my heart has always belonged to Egypt.  When I was a little 7-year old girl in elementary school here in my home in Northern California, unhappy from my brother's death, I did not want to play with the other children.  Instead I stayed in the school library.  One day I was wandering through the library and found a picture book of Egypt.  The photos were mostly of antiquities from King Tut.  Needless to say I was struck  and amazed by something that touched my heart so deeply; I shall never forget that moment.  My tears of sadness turned into joy at my first great discovery! 

Dr. Hawass, I am now 48-years old and still have that dream to become an archaeologist, and Egyptologist!  You have rekindled that spirit within me.  While I may never see this dream come to fruition, thank you for keeping my dream alive.  I thank you very much for the passion you show in your work, and the dedication to your cultural roots and the archaeological community. 

Please know I support your cause in having all of Egypt's wonderful antiquities returned to their rightful homeland.  You are an amazing man and I hope when I do make my trek to Egypt that I will have the pleasure of meeting you so I may give my thanks to you in person.

With deep admiration,

Marianne Martinez

Dear Marianne,

Thank you for your wonderful letter. I love hearing from people who share my passion for Egyptology. Never give up your dream to become an archaeologist. This field needs passion and dedication. I hope that you will come to Egypt soon and see the magic and mystery for yourself.

Good luck with your studies,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: Bbluzman

Dr. Hawass,

    My name is Charles Gregory, I live in Warren Ohio and I have been fascinated by ancient Egypt and it's culture since I was very young. Recently, I saw you on a television show being asked if the pyramids could have been built by a an older "lost" civilization I got the impression you were annoyed. I also find this laughable I enjoy watching you. You seem very knowledgeable and seem to take great passion in your work. One day I hope to visit Egypt and visit not only the pyramids but, all the other wonders that the ancient Egyptians left us, keep up the good work!                                                     

Charles 

 

Dear Charles,

Thank you for your letter. I am glad that you enjoyed my response on the show. The discovery of the tombs of the pyramid builders in Giza prove that the pyramids were built by Egyptians, not slaves, aliens or people of a lost civilization.

I hope you come to Egypt soon to see the magic and mystery for yourself…

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: "Paul Misner"

Subject: You have been drafted as an honorary Grandfather.

Dr. Hawass:

My soon to be six year old has become an expert Egyptologist. We had found out when he was 4 that he taught himself to read. He reads adult level books on Egypt and we listened to the Teaching Company lectures on ancient Egypt by Bob Brier. His knowledge and recall are unbelievable.

We enjoy watching a number of shows on ancient Egypt, and you're in most of the good ones. He loves you. He says "that Dr. Hawass knows more about Ancient Egypt than me even."

One night I was joking with Nathan. I said, "Would you like Dr. Hawass to be your honorary grandfather". His face lit up like it was Christmas morning. "Oh yes!", he said, and he was almost shaking. So I'm drafting you. You are now in service as a Grandpop to an amazing beautiful young man. Congratulations.

Sir, part of the reason I'm writing you is for him, but also part of the reason is for me. I was wondering if you could do me the favor of sending Nathan an autographed picture of yourself, with something like "Nathan, keep up the good work. We need more Egyptologists"? I'll compensate you for any charges involved.

But I also could use any advice on how to channel this love. Right now he's looking at the British Museum's Ancient Egypt collection online. He's read all of the kids level books in the library, and I have him going in the adult collection now. His teacher tested him at reading past a sixth grade level.

Thank you for all the knowledge and joy you've brought us. Your passion for what you do is evident whenever I see you.

God bless you Dr. Hawass.

Paul Misner

 

Dear Paul,

WOW!!!! Your son sounds amazing! I am honored that he would want me to be his honorary grandfather. Please tell your son that I would love to meet him and if you come to Egypt let me know and I will arrange a meeting in my office. I will send him a letter and autographed photo.

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass

From: Nancy Underwood 

Dear Dr. Hawass,

    This is not to ask a question but only to thank you for protecting the interests of Egypt (old and new). I agree with so many of your views. You are correct ( in my view) for not allowing the movie about Moses and Akhenaten. I read the book and spent much of my journey as I read the book going...huh?? I also agree with your decision concerning Dr Fletcher.

    I know many view your decisions as "hard nosed". But to protect Egypt, its treasures, history and the Egyptian peoples birth right. One must take a stand.

     I am traveling to Egypt in March 2006 for a little over three weeks ( my first time in Egypt) for a mixture of business and pleasure and am bringing my 12 year old daughter with me. She is a walking Egyptian encyclopedia and hopes to be an Egyptologist some day. Perhaps we may cross paths in our journey. But even if we don't, know that this American thanks you from the bottom of her heart for all that you do for Egypt and its people.

With respect,

Nancy Underwood

PS The Rosetta stone should be back in Egypt where it belongs!

 

Dear Nancy,

Thank you for your wonderful letter. I always love hearing from people who share my passion for Egyptology.

I hope you enjoy your visit to Egypt.

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: khufo khufo 

hello Dr Zahi

i want to tell you something

i am a student in the faculty of arts, department of archaeology , i adore archaeology and excavations.

i really want to be someone like Mariet , lebsiuos, Betri and so on.........

i read a lot of books that talking about archaeology for both egyptions and foriegners...iam also taking courses in german and i wll take english later..

i will dedicate my life to archaeology like you exactly..

who knows, may be i will meet you in the future and tell you my suggestions about our great monuments..

thank you Dr. zahi bye..........

 

Thank you for your letter! I always love hearing from aspiring young Egyptologists.

Good luck with your studies,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: "Front Desk"

Dear Dr. Hawass,

I just wanted to thank you for having the courage to request the museums of the world to return the Egyptian antiquities they have in their collections.

For years I’ve wondered why it was that Egypt never demanded the return of her stolen cultural treasures –why it is that the Rosetta Stone lies in the hands of the British Museum; why the temple of Dendur resides in The Met; why “Cleopatra’s Needles” reside in London and New York, etc.

Anyway, thank you again for all you’ve done for Egyptology.

Sincerely,

Leslie Moore
Portland, Oregon
United States

 

Dear Leslie:

I was very happy to receive your email. It is always nice to hear from people who share my passion for ancient Egypt. When I became the Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities we established a new department to track stolen artifacts through Interlope. This department is working with law institutions world wide to track down artifacts in museums and in private collections and make sure that they are safely returned.

Thanks for your concern,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: Steven Bistransky 

Dear Dr. Hawass:

Is there any hope that the pyramid of Khafre contains additional chambers or hallways?  I know that there was a survey some ten or more years ago using state of the art science.  Today that science has been surpassed.  What are your thoughts about this matter?  Also, will there be additional exploration in the West Valley adjacent to the Valley of the Kings and what may be found there 

Doctor, I have visited Egypt five times since 1996. I plan to travel to your homeland again in April, 2006. I will be there for five weeks.  Is there any chance I might visit the Tomb of Seti I? I have made friends in both Cairo and Luxor because I have spent a total of four months in your country.  I am fifty-eight years old and Egypt has been a subject of study for me since I was seven years old when I first saw the Hollywood epic "The Egyptian" at the movie theater. If you can provide any consideration during my new trip, I will be in your debt for the rest of my life.

Thank you for your attention.

One of your admirers,

Steven Bistransky

 

Dear Steven:

Thank you for your letter. Concerning getting a permission to visit tombs: you need to send a formal request with the dates, times and exactly what you want to see. Please email my email with all the details.

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: Nidhi Shekar 

respected sir,

      my name is Nidhi C.Shekar. i'm living in india and i'm 13 years old. i'm very much interested in egypt. in fact, i have senn all the movies on egypt, all the websites giving information on egypt. i'm very much interested in Hieroglypics. In fact, i have ordered some books on 'how to learn hieroglypics' and also a book of yours-'beyond the sand'. my question to you is:- 

  as you have come across many curses on tombs.stones.etc.

DO YOU BELIEVE IN THE CURSES?WHAT MAKES YOU TO BELIEVE THEM?

PLEASE SIR, inform me about yr answer. your contributions to egypt is great and i can make out that whenever u discover something, they'll be a shine on your face.

-yours sincerely,

-nidhi

 

Dear Nidhi,

Thank you for your wonderful letter. To learn about the curse and my opinion you need to read my book "Curse of the Pharoahs".

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass

Dear Dr. Hawass:

I am attaching a digital photo of a rather unusual faience scarab which I inherited many years ago.  It was originally purchased by my fraternal Grandmother in Egypt in the 1920's.

The scarab is incorporated into a silver finger ring.  What I find odd about this particular scarab is the presence of what looks like a second, smaller, scarab on the back of the larger scarab.

Can you enlighten me as to the significance of this design. I have never before seen this type of representation.

There are also several lines of inscription on the underside of scarab.

Let me also add my personal note of thanks for the extraordinary work that you are doing to preserve and protect the treasures of Ancient Egypt.  I have had a lifelong fascination with the artifacts of your country in spite of having never been able to visit Egypt to see them first hand.  I did however make it a point to see the traveling exhibition of the treasures of King Tut when they were exhibited in Chicago in the 1970's.  It was a truly memorable and inspirational experience. 

Thank you in advance for your kind attention in this matter,
Sincerely,
Brian Kolakowski
countfiero@aol.com

Dear Brain,

Thank you for your letter. It is a beautiful ring. As for the second scarab, it is part of a name written in hieroglyphs.

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass

From: "Firedog One" 

Hi Sir,

 Is there any way in borrowing  a small model of a Pyramid?  Is there any way you could visit my class?  Our class is studying Ancient Egypt; 6th grade, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands.

Thanks!

 Jose

St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

Dear Jose,

Thank you for your letter. I do not have any plans to visit St. Croix anytime soon. However, if you come to Egypt I would love to meet you!

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass

From: "Elisabeth"

Can you tell me who is the man or the woman of Saqqara of this May 2005?

Thank you very much.

ELISABETH

Dear Elisabeth,

Thank you for your letter. I think you are asking me about the mummy that we recently discovered in Saqqara. You can read all about this beautiful painted mummy on my website and also see the photos.

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: "Lisa LeBlanc" 

Dear Dr. Hawass

          My name is Dylan LeBlanc. I am 14 years old and a resident of South Bend Indiana in the United States. I am writing to you to ask a brief question. My goal in life is to become an Egyptologist, for Egypt has fascinated me since I could talk. The question I would like to ask you is on the topic of the ancient Egyptian religion. Throughout all of my reading of Egyptian religious literature and commentary, I have seen immense bias toward the subject of state religion and the beliefs of the learned. But what I was wondering is how much knowledge did the everyday people (peasants, farmers, etc.) have of the formal religion, the religion practiced by the pharaoh and his attendants? If you could shed some light of the matter for me, I would be most grateful. Also, as I enter high school this year, it will be time to begin thinking about college and where I can obtain my Ph.D in Egyptology. The college I am currently looking into is Brown University. If you could possibly share your thoughts on their program I would appreciate it.

                    Thank You.

Sincerely,

Dylan LeBlanc

 

Dear Dylan,

Thank you for your letter. I always love to hear from aspiring young Egyptologists.

I always say that the history of Egypt is our shared heritage. It marks the beginning of civilization and therefore it is part of everyone’s past. Young people are our future and it will be in their hands that we leave the important monuments of ancient Egypt. Therefore, we must equip them with the tools needed to protect Egypt’s rich history. We have started field schools to teach our Inspectors of Antiquities the new conservation and restoration methods. We have also started many programs in Egypt to educate the young people such as a new children’s school at the Egyptian Museum and new programs are being established in the Egyptian school system that will have models of 25 masterpieces from the Egyptian Museums.

 I always tell young people that working hard is not enough that they have to have passion for their work. I recommend that they read everything they can on Egyptology, study very hard and when then go to university they should go to the University of Pennsylvania, Brown University, John Hopkins University, or UCLA and become an Egyptologist.

Good luck with your studies….  Brown is a great university and I hope that you continue to pursue your dream of being an Egyptologist!

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: "Killen, Lori" 

Dear  Doctor Hawass,

I have admired your work for many years and referred my students to your documentaries and publications with utmost confidence.

I am a teacher of Ancient  History at an Adult Educational Institution in NSW Australia.

I specialise in 18th and 19th Dynasty history for my Matriculation Classes.

My Husband and I will be in Egypt  from 28 December 2005 until January 9  2006.

Are you able recommend any activities in Egypt which would be beneficial to my  teaching practice (apart from regular tourist activities).

I am particularly interested in the 18th Dynasty.

I await your reply with great anticipation.

Kindest Regards,
Lori Killen

 

Dear Lori,

Thank you for your letter. I am sorry that I did not get back to you sooner. I hope that you and your husband had a great time in Egypt.

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass

From: Maria Sarri 

Dear Dr Zahi Hawass,

I am a graduate student of Tufts University at Boston and I am working on a project regarding Repatriation of Antiquities. I have read about your country's case (especially about your demand from British museum) and, if you are willing, I would like you to inform me about your actions and your arguments. Have you also asked for the return of Egyptian items from Museum of Fine Arts of Boston?

I would be grateful if you could also let me know about any past interviews of yours relating to this issue.

Thank you in advance

Maria Sarri 

Dear Maria,

Thank you for your letter. I have asked the head of the department for the return of stolen antiquities to send you the information that you requested.

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass

From: "Clayton Adams"

Dr. Hawass,

This might sound a bit off the wall to you, but I like to think outside of the box, or pyramid if you will.  I'm going to tell you exactly what is inside the chamber you recently opened in the Great Pyramid.  Bear in mind that I am not a religious person by any stretch of the imagination. 

The Great Pyramid is the tomb, or perhaps prison if you prefer, of the being we call God.

You did a great service to the world in opening that chamber. Something got out when you drilled that hole, and I don't think it was a bad thing.

I sat there and watched it happen, and something happened to me. My life hasn't been the same since.

I want you to take the Great Pyramid apart block by block in the greatest archaeological event in the history of mankind.

Think of what that would mean to the world.It could very possibly be the unifying event we've all been waiting for...

I want you to recapture the wonder of a child who encounters a stack of blocks. I want you to knock it down and, if you want, put it back together again.

That's the only way we'll ever know what's really inside.

Peace.

Clay

Dear Clay,

Thank you for your letter. We cannot dismantle the Great pyramid block by block. The Great Pyramid is an accomplishment of mankind and if we destroy our past we will have no future!

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: "Janice Thomas" 

Dr. Hawass

I am a 6th grade Social Studies teacher and was wondering if you had some fun, fascinating stories I could pass on to my students about ancient Egyptian children.  They are familiar with mummies but I was wondering if you had other stories to tell that might not be in their text books.

Thank you,

Mrs. Janice Thomas
6th Grade Social Studies Teacher
Effingham Junior High School

 

Dear Janice,

Thank you for your letter. I wrote a book, "Curse of the Pharaohs" that is geared towards children of that age and is filled with stories. I think your students would enjoy it

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass

From: Kubala August

Dear Sir  

Excuse me for disturb you.

My name is August Paul Kubala and I am 69 year old and more then 40 years working on very big building sites. Now I am 9 years pensioner and have time to think on the big Pyramid and the tomb from the great king Chufu. I had very often visit the libraries from different universities and my knowledge to enlarge.

Now I have following find out, After to study a unfortunately plan from a book, have I calculated a possibility passage, where the entry to the tomb can be.

Now my request. I need really a orderly plan with measuring dates and what is for me very important, all materials from the corridors in the pyramide. For example the gallery, Left side limesandstone, right side also limesandstone (or other?). Different materials from left and right side is for me especially from interest. Please be so kind and give me the dates or a internet adresse where I can find it myself.

Only on a good plan I can find a proof for my hypothese. Self evident get you all the results.

With best regards A.P. Kubala

Ps. Please excuse my poor english and tolerate faults. Thank you very much

Dear Mr. Kabala,

 Thank you for your letter. It is always nice to hear from someone who shares my passion for Egyptology.

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass

Respected, Dr. Zahi Hawass

My name is Dhaval Pandya, from Gujarat, India. My elder brother Malav Pandya & me are the big fan of yours. (I am working with an International Company in Baroda, Gujarat-India and My brother is a Social Activist working with a reputed group of Gujarat-India).

We have witnessed most of your programs on National Geographic about the excavation time by time. The Egyptian culture ever hits our mind and attracts us to know more about it. Because we believe that Egyptian culture is one of the oldest on the earth. We are having keen interest in history and that too more about that, which has ever been in news and unrevealed. But the task you have undertaken to open the kept secret of Egyptian history that no one knows ever before is just an extra ordinary. My brother and me ever appreciate the achievements that you had, having and those that you will surely have in future. You are a true guardian of the Egyptian culture in a real manner. We have been thinking to write you a letter from a long back, hopefully today it is going to take place.    

Wish every country would have a true guardian of their cultures, that put the real picture of his country's history in front of the world in a best possible way that you have did and doing. One word is coming out of the depth of our heart that THE EGYPTIAN HISTORY IS IN SAFE HANDS. And my brother is saying that Dr. Zahi Hawass is "THE INCARNATION FOR UNREVEALED EGYPTIAN HISTORY"  

If this mail would be replied, we'll be glad to have it.

Yours Fan

Dhaval & Malav Pandya. (Gujarat-INDIA.)

Dear Dhaval and Malav,

Thank you for your wonderful letter. It is always nice to hear from people who share my passion for Egyptology.

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: "Sheroy Tata" 

Dear Dr. Zahi Hawass,

We are a family from Mumbai , India, traveling to Egypt from 2nd November to 11th November 2005. We will be in Cairo on 10th & 11th November 2005.

All of us- my children aged 16 & 11 years, my husband & I watch your programs on National Geographic Channel. If it is possible, we would like to meet you when we are in Cairo.

Could you please reply and let me know if it would be possible for you to meet us on 10th or 11th November 2005.

You could send me an Email at sheroytata@hotmail.com

I also wish to thank you on behalf of all of us for bringing Egypt into our drawing room through your extremely interesting programs on the National Geographic Channel.

Regards and Best Wishes,

Farida Tata

 

Dear Farida,

Thank you for your letter. I am sorry that I did not reply sooner. I hope that you enjoyed your trip to Egypt.

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


From: "Amber Blevins" 

Dear Dr. Hawass, 

Hello. My name is Amber Blevins and I am 15 and in my second year of High School.  I want to let you know I have always had a fascination with Ancient Egypt and have sort of made it my hobby. A few months ago I went to the King Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharohs exhibit in Los Angeles, and it was like a dream come true! I bought the Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharohs reference book, written by yourself, and had some questions and suggestions about King Tut, and his tomb.

 Now, about the tomb, you know how people have always said that it looked like Tuts burial was "rushed" and "hurried", and you said that it wasn't. Well, what if he was buried, and his treasures were buried with the utmost care and respect. My theory is this. Maybe it was earthquakes that created the "hurried" and "rushed" look of Tutankhamuns treasures in his tomb. because if you look at pottery and things in other tombs, they are mostly broken. But that is my thinking, what is yours? And another thing, if Tutankhamun was not murdered, then why was there an unusually large amount of resin associated with Tuts body and tomb, if they were not trying to hide something? Now, I am not going against your judgment, considering you have seen the body and tomb yourself and have done CT scans upon the body, and I have not. 

I would appreciate a reply and thank you for taking the time to read my letter.

 Sincerely, 
Amber Noelle Blevins

Dear Amber,

Thank you for your letter. I always love to hear from aspiring young Egyptologists.

I always say that the history of Egypt is our shared heritage. It marks the beginning of civilization and therefore it is part of everyone’s past. Young people are our future and it will be in their hands that we leave the important monuments of ancient Egypt. Therefore, we must equip them with the tools needed to protect Egypt’s rich history. To be an Egyptologist, working hard is not enough you need to have passion. From your letter I can see that you have a love for Egyptology.  I recommend that you read everything they can on Egyptology, study very hard and when then go to university they should go to the University of Pennsylvania, Brown University, John Hopkins University, or UCLA and become an Egyptologist.

Best wishes,

Dr. Zahi Hawass


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