A joint Egyptian-German mission has announced the discovery of a Late Period temple dedicated to the ram-headed god Khnum in the Asyut Province. The structure, dating back approximately 2,500 years, is notable for its ceiling, which is adorned with gilded astronomical reliefs representing the 36 decans (star groups) of the Egyptian night sky. The temple served as a local pilgrimage site for those seeking the god's protection over the Nile's seasonal floods.
The inner chambers remain largely intact, including a sacrificial altar carved from red granite and several bronze statuettes of the deity. Inscriptions found on the door jambs mention previously unknown administrative officials of the 26th Dynasty, shedding light on the regional governance of Middle Egypt during the Saite period. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has announced plans to include the site in a new 'Heritage Trail' to encourage tourism in the Asyut region.