Ancient temple reveals long-lost secrets

A journey of success

The recent findings are just a part of the results from eight years of the Egyptian-Chinese joint archaeological mission, which was formed in 2018 by the Institute of Archaeology at the CASS and Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.

Since its founding, this collaborative team has been conducting excavations and research at the Montu Temple, making a series of important discoveries that have gradually uncovered the secrets of this ancient Egyptian site.

For the Chinese and Egyptian archaeologists involved, the most significant gain goes beyond the archaeological finds themselves. It lies in the mutual understanding and respect for each other's cultures that has grown through their cooperation.

"Through this joint mission, we have developed a deeper understanding of Egypt, while our Egyptian colleagues have come to admire the brilliance of ancient Chinese civilization. We share a deep mutual appreciation," said Huang Fucheng, an archaeologist from the Zhengzhou Municipal Institute of Cultural Heritage and Archaeology in Henan province.

According to the team members, the collaboration initially faced a period of adjustment. After patient discussions and communication, both sides eventually established a smooth and efficient working process.

"Chinese archaeologists have a strong foundation in the field, with their own set of principles, methods and academic traditions," Jia said, adding that the methods were embraced by Egyptian colleagues.

"It can be said that the collaboration between the members of our joint archaeological team is a perfect example of the exchange and mutual learning between Chinese and Egyptian civilizations," said Ahmed Hassan, an Egyptian member of the joint mission.

A future with potential

"Excavation is not just about uncovering stones and artifacts," Aly said. "It is about building relationships, fostering friendships and bridging civilizations, both past and present."

Today, Chinese archaeologists are not only at the Montu Temple but are also actively engaged in sites across Egypt, including Luxor, Cairo and Alexandria.

For Mohamed Abdel-Badie, head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector at the Supreme Council of Antiquities, the success of the Egyptian-Chinese archaeological collaboration reflects the vast potential for contemporary cooperation between the two great civilizations.

"Cooperation between Egypt and China is no longer a matter of choice; it has become indispensable," Abdel-Badie said. "Both countries are heirs to great ancient civilizations, which makes their continued rapprochement not only natural but necessary in light of the current global situation."

Cultural exchanges between China and Egypt have expanded into various fields, and the growing bonds between the two nations are laying a solid foundation for broader cooperation, ensuring that the ancient civilizational partnership continues to thrive.

"Through exchanges such as the joint archaeological mission, China is demonstrating its dedication to mutual respect and learning with other civilizations," Aly noted."Mutual appreciation is a key reason that binds us together."

In November 2025, the Grand Egyptian Museum opened after two decades of construction.

"Both China and Egypt are ancient civilizations with a rich history," Huang said. "Our ancestors created brilliant cultures in the past, and today, through mutual cooperation, we are sure to achieve even greater development milestones. A new chapter of friendship and cooperation between our two nations has only just begun."