Excavations at the ancient site of Tel el-Farain (formerly Buto) have led to the stunning discovery of a late-period sanctuary dedicated to Meret, the Egyptian goddess associated with music, singing, and rejoicing. The structure, dating to approximately the 4th century CE, features rare limestone walls decorated with musical notation and relief scenes of temple singers. This finding provides unprecedented insight into the role of acoustic performance in late-antique Egyptian religious rituals.
The most significant find within the inner sanctum was a pair of remarkably preserved wooden harps, partially adorned with lapis lazuli and gold leaf. Archaeologists believe these instruments were used during specific seasonal festivals to greet the rising of the Nile. The temple layout includes unique circular platforms designed to amplify the voices of a choir, a feature rarely seen in standard Egyptian temple architecture of this era.