See what is inside the 2000-year-old stone coffin discovered in Egypt (PHOTOS)

A mysterious ten foot (three-metre) long black sarcophagus has been opened in Alexandria, found on the northern coast of Egypt and founded by the legendary leader of the same name.

The 6.5ft (two metre) high coffin was first discoveredearlier this month and unearthed in recent days.The 30-ton (27,000 kg) tomb was found buried 16ft (five metres) beneath the ground of the city.

Egyptologists pried open the black granite sarcophagus earlier today to reveal three decomposed bodies.

The stone coffin was also filled with sewage water, which is believed to have increased the rate of decomposition. See photos below:

Three mummies.

The stone coffin was also filled with sewage water, which is believed to have increased the rate of decomposition.

One of the skulls appears to have been hit by a sharp instrument.

An undisturbed layer of mortar sat between its lid and the body of the coffin.

They also said that the other two skulls were intact and male, with further studies expected to reveal their ages and appearances.

Antiques ministry officials said at the time it was discovered that the sarcophagus had been sealed for more than 2,000 years.

Researchers opened it 20 days after discovering it beneath the city.

When news it would be opened surfaced online, American author Catherynne Valente joked: 'If the movies have taught me anything, guys, don’t open that.

Just don’t. Leave it alone.

'The move was confirmed by Mostafa Waziri, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities of Egypt.

'The sarcophagus has been opened, but we have not been hit by a curse, said Mr Waziri.