An Egyptian archaeological mission has uncovered a rare marble head of Aphrodite along with Roman basilica extensions at the ancient site of Ihnasya in Beni Suef.
The mission led by Mohamed Ibrahim unearthed a reused stone block bearing the cartouche of King Senusret III and another inscribed with the name of the deity Osiris Naref.
Archaeologists also identified extensions of a Roman basilica, remains of an ancient Doric temple, terracotta moulds for minting coins, and fragments of wall statues from the Roman period.
Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy described the finds as an important scientific achievement that underscores the historical significance of Ihnasya.
Hesham El-Leithy and Mohamed Abdel Badie noted that the marble head measures approximately 24 by 25 centimetres and displays exceptional craftsmanship reflecting Greek and Roman artistic traditions.