A major archaeological dig in Egypt’s Sinai has uncovered fortresses, soldier housing, and roads from the Ptolemaic and Roman periods, offering new insights into military life over 2,000 years ago.
Discovery reveals defensive structures and a trench system
The discovery, made by the Egyptian Archaeological Mission under the Supreme Council of Antiquities, includes parts of two ancient fortresses, military housing, and defensive trenches. Experts believe one of the trenches may point to an even older, undiscovered fortress nearby.
Located in the historically rich Athar region, the site revealed fortification designs from the Golden and Roman Castles, dating to the Ptolemaic and Roman periods.
Archaeologists uncovered the distinctive architectural layout of the eastern gates of both fortresses in the Sinai dig, helping researchers reimagine how defensive entrances were constructed at the time.
A deep trench over two meters deep was uncovered at the entrance of the Golden Castle. Archaeologists believe it was part of a defensive system that delayed or disrupted enemy movement.
Officials highlight strategic and historical importance
Sharif Fathi, Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, said the discovery helps reconstruct the country’s military landscape during critical periods of its history. He also emphasized Tel Abu Sifi’s importance as a defensive base and an industrial hub over the centuries.
Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, noted that the findings support Sinai’s long-standing role as Egypt’s eastern gateway and first line of defense.
Roman roads and mud structures point to urban planning
Mohammed Abdel-Badii, head of the Egyptian Archaeological Sector, stated that the mission uncovered a stone-paved road measuring 11 meters wide and extending over 100 meters, stretching from the eastern gate of the Roman Castle into the core of the site.
The road was built over an older route from the Ptolemaic (Greek) period, as shown by the discovery of an oval-shaped limestone path beneath it.
Archaeologists found more than 500 circular mudbrick enclosures along both sides of the road, believed to have held trees that once lined and decorated the fortress entrance during the Ptolemaic period.
Housing and kilns offer insight into daily life and industry
The excavation also revealed Roman-era military dwellings, offering a glimpse into the lives of soldiers stationed at the Roman Castle during the reigns of Emperors Diocletian and Maximian.
Additionally, four large kilns used to produce quicklime were discovered. Experts believe these furnaces reflect a transition of the site into an industrial center by the end of the Roman period, likely leading to the destruction of many of the original stone buildings.
Possible third fortress discovered beneath the site
Dr. Hisham Hussein, head of the archaeological mission and director general of the Sinai Monuments Administration, reported the discovery of another trench, which may suggest the existence of a third and possibly the oldest fortress at the site, predating both the Golden and Roman Castles.
The team also uncovered four stone pillars believed to be the corners of this earlier structure. Its age is currently under examination.
Nearby the fortresses revealed in the Sinai dig, the archaeologists found several interconnected rectangular buildings arranged in interlays believed to have been used as living spaces during the Ptolemaic period.
Tel Abu Sifi replaced Tel Habwa as a key military site
Tel Abu Sifi played a key role in Egypt’s eastern defenses for centuries. As the Nile River changed course and coastal access diminished, the strategic focus shifted from the ancient city of Tel Habwa, also known as Tharo, to Tel Abu Sifi. This transition marked the site as a major military stronghold throughout Egyptian history.
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