Unknown: The Lost Pyramid (2023) Plot Summary & Timeline

Dr. Zahi Hawass is on a mission to uncover a significant archaeological find that he believes will solidify his legacy — the pyramid of Huni, the last Pharaoh of Egypt’s Third Dynasty. This ancient king is a pivotal figure from the Old Kingdom, yet very little is known about him, making the discovery of his burial site essential for understanding Egypt’s historical narrative. Huni ruled approximately 4500 years ago, and aside from his name appearing on a few King’s lists, the location of his pyramid remains a mystery, unlike other pharaohs from the same period who built their tombs at Saqqara.

Initially, Hawass was reluctant to pursue a career in archaeology, primarily because most researchers in Egyptian history were foreigners. He felt strongly that Egyptians should take the initiative in uncovering and preserving their own history. Many artifacts unearthed by foreign archaeologists were transported out of the country, which further emphasized the need for local experts to delve into their heritage.

As Hawass and his dedicated team embarked on an intensive nine-month excavation, Mostafa Waziri, his protégé, was also busy at a nearby site known as Bubasteion. Four years prior, this location revealed the tomb of Wahtye, and Waziri was optimistic about uncovering more groundbreaking artifacts. The team soon discovered a shaft, which upon exploration, revealed the Eye of Horus — a promising sign indicating potential coffins. The excitement in the air surrounded the possibility of finding an entire burial chamber filled with sarcophagi.

At the same time, Hawass’ team uncovered a crucial limestone quarry, reinforcing his theory that Huni’s pyramid was indeed located in Gisr-El-Mudir. Historically, pyramids were constructed near quarries to streamline the logistics of material transportation. The discovery of nine statues belonging to members of Egypt’s elite hinted that a royal necropolis was situated nearby, especially as it is common for high-ranking officials to be buried adjacent to a pharaoh. The statues’ pristine condition suggested that they had not been looted, sparking excitement and hope that Huni’s pyramid might also remain undisturbed, thus securing Hawass’s place in history.

Inspiration for his relentless pursuit comes from renowned English archaeologist Howard Carter, who took five years to locate King Tutankhamun’s tomb. Hawass adopted Carter’s lesson of patience and resolve. Eventually, they confirmed the tomb’s untouched status, leading to the discovery of a sarcophagus containing a skeleton. Due to the rudimentary methods of mummification in the Old Kingdom period, the skeleton had undergone deformation. Recognizing the damage, Hawass chose to leave the coffin intact.

Despite the arduous challenges posed during the final month of excavation, the team’s morale soared as they were driven by the prospect of unveiling a significant piece of history. Another coffin was discovered, this one sealed and impressively sized. It belonged to a woman named Nebet Hut, whose remains had been preserved impeccably for over 4,300 years, along with ornaments that maintained their vibrant blue-green hues through millennia.

Hawass asserted that this mummy might be the oldest and best-preserved ever found in Egypt, indicating the individual’s status was likely linked to the royal lineage. The gilded cane found among the artifacts implied she held a significant position, suggesting that the burial site of a Pharaoh might be nearby. In the final week of their quest, the team stumbled upon a limestone wall, prompting hope that they might finally uncover the pyramid of Huni — an uncertain yet tantalizing prospect.

Meanwhile, Mostafa Waziri successfully discovered the entrance to a well-preserved tomb stacked with coffins. Upon entering, his team found several protective statues essential for ancient Egyptians, necessitating their removal before they could access the coffins. It took conservators over ten days to restore these fragile artifacts. Strange, unfamiliar objects littered the area, adding an air of mystery as the absence of written records rendered their purpose enigmatic.

Once the statues were cleared, attention turned to a particularly intriguing wooden coffin belonging to an individual named Ahmose. Upon unveiling it, Waziri uncovered a bronze statuette of a cat, alongside a gold amulet depicting a bird with a human head. Most compelling was a well-preserved papyrus, identified later as the Waziri papyrus, which turned out to be an unprecedented find among ancient Egyptian scrolls. After a meticulous restoration effort lasting three weeks, the nine-meter scroll was finally unrolled, revealing 113 chapters from “The Book of Death,” representing one of the most well-maintained records of ancient Egyptian beliefs.

Against the backdrop of Waziri’s remarkable finds, Hawass maintained faith that the world’s attention would soon be drawn to his pyramid exploration. Unknown: The Lost Pyramid highlights how two of Egypt’s leading Egyptologists are reshaping the field of archaeology. Their dedication not only illuminates the past but builds a future for the discipline in Egypt. Despite pursuing their distinct paths, mutual respect and love for history unite Waziri and Hawass. As the excavation at Saqqara continues and the search for the pyramid’s entrance persists, the documentary reveals significant strides being made in unveiling two monumental historical discoveries.