
05/07/2025
Scientists have successfully sequenced the first complete ancient Egyptian genome from a 4,500-to-4,800-year-old individual from the Old Kingdom.
This groundbreaking discovery reveals the man's ancestry was predominantly North African (80%), with a 20% link to the Fertile Crescent. This provides the first direct genetic proof of ancient population mixing.
The remains, found near Cairo, belonged to a potter who lived to an advanced age, with his unique burial suggesting higher status. Published in Nature, this study illuminates early Egyptian genetics and enhances our understanding of this iconic civilization.