Minot State University is set to host a landmark event, “Discoveries Set in Stone,” featuring Minot native and world-renowned Egyptologist Mark Lehner. The three-day archaeology conference, scheduled from May 1-3, promises to be a confluence of history, culture, and science, drawing enthusiasts and scholars alike.
The conference will open with a captivating lecture by MSU’s own Amanda Watts, who will share her experiences of “War Zone Archaeology in Afghanistan: Saving Buddhas from the Taliban.” Her insights into the challenges of preserving history amidst conflict will set a compelling tone for the event.
Following Watts, Roberta Marzianni will delve into “New Frontiers in Heritage Recording,” exploring the intersection of technology and archaeology. Her talk is expected to showcase the latest advancements in photogrammetry and virtual reality, offering a glimpse into the future of archaeological documentation.
Lehner’s Legacy and Contributions
The highlight of the conference will be Mark Lehner’s presentation, “Prairie to the Pyramids: Lost City of the Giza Pyramids.” Lehner’s extensive work over four decades has revolutionized our understanding of ancient Egypt, particularly through his mapping of the Great Sphinx and the Giza Plateau.
His groundbreaking discoveries, including the unearthing of the Lost City of the Giza Pyramids, have not only provided invaluable insights into ancient Egyptian civilization but also inspired a generation of archaeologists. Attendees can look forward to an engaging session that bridges the past with the present.
The Future of Egyptology
The conference will also serve as a platform for discussing the future directions of Egyptology. With the field rapidly evolving, thanks to technological advancements and new archaeological methods, the event will offer a forum for debate and discussion on where the discipline is headed.
Lehner’s work with the Ancient Egypt Research Associates (AERA) and the Giza Plateau Mapping Project exemplifies the dynamic nature of modern archaeology. His upcoming feature in the National Geographic film “Lost Treasures of Egypt” is a testament to the enduring fascination with Egypt’s ancient mysteries.
