On Friday on the 22nd of March 2013, shortly after sunset, the long-time foreman of workmen at the Czech archaeological excavations in Egypt, reis Ahmad el-Kereti, passed away after a long and hard illness.

Reis Ahmad took part at Czech excavations in Abusir for almost four decades, and together with his older brother, reis Talal, witnessed all important discoveries of the Czech Institute of Egyptology, CU FA: the pyramid complex of Queen Khentkaus, the pyramid complex of King Raneferef, the unlooted tombs of Iufaa and Neferinpu, the funerary complexes of Old Kingdom officials Qar and Inti and many others. In 2011 he became the chief reis of the Czech expedition, and in 2012 he took part at the discovery of the unique statues of high dignitaries from the 3rd Millennium BC.

In the last several years, he also lead workmen at the excavations in the el-Hayez oasis, where he became an integral part of the team and significantly contributed to the discoveries of new sites and settlements from the early Christian period, and of unique irrigation systems.

Reis Ahmad was a unique personality, who charmed everyone by his remarkable humanity and passion for work in the desert, desire for discoveries and effort at protection of the heritage of the ancient Egyptian civilization. His passing away from this world has proven that there indeed are losses cannot be replaced.

May you walk upon the beautiful ways of those who are justified in front of the Great God.

Reis Ahmad el-Kereti with Prof. Miroslav Verner (photo Martin Frouz)