Archaeologists discover what may be rare bust of Cleopatra

Archaeologists in Egypt have unearthed what some suggest could be a marble bust of Cleopatra, as reported by Live Science.

The discovery, made beneath the walls of the ancient Taposiris Magna temple in Western Alexandria, includes a small, white marble statue of a woman wearing a royal crown, according to The Independent.

Additional artifacts were uncovered nearby, notably 350 coins, many featuring the likeness of Cleopatra VII.

The lead archaeologist on the excavation believes the bust represents the famed queen, who ascended Egypt’s throne in 51 BC. She also theorizes Cleopatra’s tomb may lie hidden within the ruins of Taposiris Magna, as noted in The Daily Mail.

However, this interpretation is met with skepticism.

Zahi Hawass, Egypt's former minister of antiquities, told Live Science, “I looked at the bust carefully. It is not Cleopatra at all. It is Roman.” He added that statues of pharaohs from Cleopatra's era were traditionally depicted in an Egyptian style, differing significantly from the Roman aesthetic of the newly discovered piece.

Cleopatra’s suicide in 30 BC marked the conclusion of the Ancient Egyptian era and paved the way for Roman dominance over the region.

Despite uncertainties about the bust’s identity, Egyptologists agree the discoveries illuminate aspects of the Ptolemaic period's history and culture.