A thrilling new discovery in Egypt has unveiled the remnants of a once-vital military fortress used to defend the shores from attackers such as the ‘sea people’ and dating back to the New Kingdom era. Archaeologists have unearthed ancient military barracks, weapons storage units, and personal artifacts belonging to soldiers, offering a rare glimpse into the daily life and military operations of ancient Egyptian forces. Among the most remarkable finds is a beautifully crafted bronze sword inscribed with the cartouche of King Ramses the Great.
The Strategic Importance of Tell Al-Abqain
Reported by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the mission, led by Dr. Ahmed Said El-Kharadly, uncovered a series of mudbrick structures that served as military barracks for soldiers, alongside storerooms for weapons, food, and other supplies.
According to Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, this discovery underscores the military importance of Tell Al-Abqain, located in Egypt’s coastal Bahira Governorate, which functioned as a crucial Egyptian military outpost. Situated along the western military road, the fort protected Egypt’s northwestern borders from potential invasions by Libyan tribes and the Sea Peoples, both of which posed serious threats during the New Kingdom.
The architectural layout of the barracks demonstrates the ingenuity of ancient Egyptian engineers. The units were organized into two symmetrical groups separated by a narrow corridor, a design that highlights the Egyptians’ ability to efficiently utilize environmental features for practical purposes.
An array of scarabs engraved with deities were recovered. (MOTA)
Artifacts of Daily Life and Military Activity
Beyond the barracks, the mission uncovered a variety of artifacts that provide a vivid glimpse into the daily lives of the soldiers stationed at the fort. Dr. Ayman Ashmawy, head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector, reported that some of the architectural units were used as storerooms where large pottery vessels were found, containing remnants of fish and animal bones, as well as fragments of broken pottery. Additionally, the presence of cylindrical pottery ovens suggests that these rooms were used for cooking and food preparation.
Some of the military barracks with ovens unearthed at Tell Al-Abqain, Bahira Governorate, Egypt. (MOTA)
Among the most significant finds was a bronze sword engraved with the cartouches of Ramses II, a symbol of the pharaoh’s far-reaching influence. Weapons and hunting tools discovered at the site, along with personal items such as ivory kohl applicators, carnelian beads, and scarabs, reveal the soldiers’ day-to-day activities, religious beliefs, and practices.
Bronze sword bearing the cartouche of Rameses II (the Great). (MOTA)
One of the most intriguing discoveries was the burial of a cow, symbolizing strength, abundance, and fertility—qualities revered in Egyptian culture. Cows were often associated with celestial deities, and their presence at the site suggests the importance of religious rituals even in a military context.
This is further supported by the discovery of two limestone blocks: one inscribed with the hieroglyphs of Ramses II and the other dedicated to an official named “Bay.”
Additional finds included scarabs engraved with deities such as “Amun – Lord of the Sky” and “Ptah,” along with a bronze ring bearing the name “Amun Horakhty,” and faience necklaces shaped like pomegranate blossoms.
Faience necklace shaped like pomegranate blossoms. (MOTA)
A Glimpse into Military and Religious Life in Ancient Egypt
The artifacts unearthed at Tell Al-Abqain provide crucial insights into the military, religious, and daily life of those stationed at the fortress. The presence of the bronze sword and other weapons highlights the fort’s role in military defense, while the personal items and religious objects demonstrate that spiritual practices were integral to the lives of the soldiers.
The site’s importance is further enhanced by the discovery of these architectural units and the associated artifacts, which confirm Tell Al-Abqain as a key military base during the reign of Ramses II.
Top image: Left; Rameses sword, Center; Barracks buildings, Right; Hieroglyphic inscriptions. Source: MOTA
By Gary Manners
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