Egypt allows so many people to dig up its ancestors because it recognizes the value and importance of its archaeological heritage for its own identity and culture as well as for the world's knowledge and appreciation. Egypt has a rich and diverse history that spans thousands of years and encompasses various civilizations and cultures that have left behind countless traces and treasures that await discovery and study. Egypt also has a long and distinguished tradition of archaeological research that dates back to the 19th century and continues until today with the participation and collaboration of many Egyptian and foreign scholars and institutions.