A 6th century BC observatory with a sundial has been found in Egypt.

Archaeologists have discovered an ancient astronomical observatory in Egypt that dates back to the sixth century BC. According to the Israeli Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, this is the first and largest such structure. This was reported by the Israeli publication The Jerusalem Post. The observatory was found in the Buto Temple in the Kafr el-Sheikh province. It was built of brick and was intended to track astronomical phenomena such as the movement of the sun and stars.

This observatory played an important role in determining the solar calendar, conducting religious and official ceremonies, including coronations and the agricultural calendar. Scientists note that the ancient Egyptians, using simple tools, were able to gain valuable knowledge about the scientific and astronomical achievements of their time. During excavations, stone sundials were found that were used to measure time. These clocks were made of limestone and had slanted lines to track shadows throughout the day.

The head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector at the National Authority of Antiquities, Dr. Ayman Ashmawy, described the observatory as the largest ever discovered. It covered an area of ​​about 850 square meters and was located in the southwest corner of the temple complex. Inside the observatory was a circular hall with engraved images of the movement of the sun, as well as several rooms that were believed to have stored instruments related to the observatory's work.

Under the walls of the observatory, frescoes and paintings of a ceremonial boat were discovered, symbolizing the connection with the Sun, Moon and other deities of the Buto Temple.

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