Since 2024, excavations have resumed at the fascinating site of Hou (the ancient Diospolis Parva or Diospolis Mikra) in Upper Egypt. The research is led by Audrey Eller of the University of Geneva (UNIGE).
Hou has a rich history of archaeological exploration. The very first excavations took place in 1898–1899 under the direction of the British archaeologist W.M.F. Petrie. Many of the objects discovered at that time are now part of the collection of the Royal Museums of Art and History. In 1927, a brief research campaign was carried out by the Queen Elisabeth Egyptological Foundation, led by Jean Capart, and in 2009 Philippe Collombert (UNIGE) conducted a survey campaign at the site.
The resumption of research at Hou provides an ideal opportunity to look at the early excavations and to explore the archaeological potential that this important site and its long history offer today.
13.30 Welcome
13.40 Audrey Eller (UNIGE)
Hou, cité du passé : histoire d’une capitale régionale égyptienne
14.00 Luc Delvaux (AERE/EGKE)
Les objets de Hou aux Musées royaux d’Art et d’Histoire
14.40-15.00 Coffee break
15.00 Wouter Claes (MRAH/KMKG)
« Pour la première fois, des fouilles belges enrichissent les collections du grand musée du Caire » : the FÉRÉ’s excavations at Tell Hiw in 1927
15.40 Audrey Eller (UNIGE)
Redécouvrir Hou : nouvelles perspectives sur un site archéologique oublié
16.30 Closing
The study day will take place on December 6, 2025, at the Royal Museums of Art and History in Brussels (Parc du Cinquantenaire), in collaboration with the Archives of the RMAH. We look forward to seeing you there. Please feel free to share this program.
Registration : tickets
Members : Free
Students: Free
Others: €10