Welcome to the

Amarna Trust

Promoting research at the ancient city of Tell el-Amarna, Egypt, and its conservation and protection.

About Amarna

The ancient Egyptian city of Amarna continues to transform our understanding of how human society has developed. Not only was it home to the heretic king Akhenaten, his wife Nefertiti and the young Tutankhamun, it remains one of the world’s pre-eminent archaeological sites for understanding how people lived in the pre-Classical world. However, Amarna is under immediate threat from urban and agricultural growth and we invite you to join our international community of supporters to ensure the long-term survival of this unique heritage site.

Objectives of the Trust

The objects of the Amarna Trust are: To raise funds and to disperse them as grants for the furtherance of research, preservation and public outreach at the ancient Egyptian site of Tell el-Amarna.

In Memoriam

Professor Barry J. Kemp CBE, FBA (1940-2024)

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Professor Barry J. Kemp, a towering figure in the field of Egyptology and a cherished member of the academic community. After a lifetime dedicated to the study of Amarna and ancient Egypt, he peacefully departed on May 15, 2024, leaving behind a legacy that will endure through his scholarly work, the many students that he mentored and encouraged, his wonderful family and friends.

Barry’s academic pursuits were driven by an insatiable curiosity and an unwavering commitment to uncovering the fine details of Egypt’s rich history. His groundbreaking research reshaped our understanding of ancient societies, particularly through his meticulous excavations and insightful interpretations of the ancient city of Amarna, the capital established by Akhenaten.

Throughout his illustrious career, Barry’s scholarly contributions were as vast as the deserts he explored. His seminal works, including “Ancient Egypt: Anatomy of a Civilization” and “The City of Akhenaten and Nefertiti: Amarna and Its People,” stand as pillars of knowledge in the field, inspiring generations of students and fellow academics alike. He was always one to embrace new technologies and see their potential for future study, pushing the boundaries of archaeological field technique.

Beyond his academic endeavours, Barry was renowned for his warmth, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his students and colleagues. His mentorship nurtured countless aspiring Egyptologists, guiding them with wisdom and encouragement as they embarked on their own scholarly odysseys.

Barry’s impact extended far beyond the hallowed halls of academia. By founding the Amarna Trust and the Amarna Project, he further projected his passion for Egyptology, igniting the imaginations of enthusiasts worldwide, fostering a deeper appreciation for the wonders of ancient Egypt and its enduring legacy in the modern world.

As we bid farewell to Barry, we celebrate a life lived with purpose, passion, and an unyielding pursuit of knowledge. He is survived by his loving family, friends, colleagues, and the countless lives he touched through his scholarship and mentorship. In honouring his memory, let us carry forward the torch of discovery and continue to investigate ancient societies with the same fervour and dedication that defined Barry’s remarkable life.

May he rest eternally in the light of the Aten.