Recently, archaeologists made a significant discovery of ancient military fortresses that date back to the times of the Ptolemies and Romans, as revealed by experts. This finding was announced by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Antiquities on May 3 through a Facebook post, which was translated into English. They detailed how excavations at Tell Abu Sefeh led to uncovering a substantial military complex.
Tell Abu Sefeh is located in North Sinai, not far from Ismailia and the Suez Canal. It has been recognized historically as one of Egypt’s strategic sites. Officials described it as having played a vital role in safeguarding Egypt’s eastern border.
During the excavation, archaeologists found the remains of trenches that hinted at military fortifications, alongside residential units for soldiers and additional fortifications in the vicinity.
Aerial images reveal complex fortifications and artifacts such as pottery and basins. Interestingly, it seems there were once trees lining the routes leading to the fort. According to the announcement, over 500 clay circles were found on both sides of a stone path, which likely served as spots for trees that might have adorned the fortress entrance during the Ptolemaic era.
Officials mentioned that the soldiers’ living quarters shed light on what daily life was like for cavalry stationed in Roman fortresses during the reigns of Emperor Diocletian and Emperor Maximian. The site is thought to have evolved into an industrial hub by the end of the Roman period, which resulted in the collapse of many stone structures.
Additionally, researchers have discovered roads extending more than 330 feet in length and 36 feet in width. These were paved with limestone slabs and connected the eastern gate of the Roman fortress to the center of the site. It’s suggested that this route traces back to an ancient road built during the Ptolemaic period.
Sherif Fassy, Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, commented that this discovery sheds light on the mysteries surrounding the military fortifications of Roman Egypt in the eastern regions.
He noted the excavation contributes to a clearer understanding of Egypt’s defense strategy along its eastern border, portraying Sinai as a key military gateway. The unique architectural features of the discovered structures could offer insights into how fortifications were designed and utilized in ancient times, including the possibility of a deep defensive trench at the Ptolemaic fortress entrance that could have helped thwart invaders.
This announcement follows other noteworthy discoveries, including the recent finding of false doors in ancient tombs. Some weeks prior, the Ministry also reported on a remarkable mining complex from 3,000 years ago, featuring ancient baths and remnants of workshops.
