Archaeologists excavate the remains of a massive New Kingdom fortress at Tell el-Kharouba in North Sinai, Egypt. Credit: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
Archaeologists in Egypt have uncovered a massive military fortress dating back to the New Kingdom period (1550 to 1070 BC) at Tell el-Kharouba, in the Sheikh Zuweid area of North Sinai.
The discovery, made by an Egyptian archaeological mission, is considered one of the largest and most important fortifications ever found along the ancient Horus military road near the Mediterranean coast.
Researchers say the fortress provides valuable insight into Egypt’s sophisticated defense system, which protected its eastern borders and controlled vital trade and military routes connecting Egypt with Palestine.
A window into Egypt’s military planning
The site offers a rare glimpse into the military planning of the New Kingdom. During this period, pharaohs constructed a network of fortresses across Sinai to secure the frontier and prevent invasions. These strongholds also ensured safe passage for soldiers and traders along one of the most strategic routes of the ancient world.
Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathy, described the discovery as powerful proof of the ancient Egyptians’ mastery in building an integrated defensive system to safeguard their land. He said the fortress reveals new chapters of Egypt’s proud military history and reinforces Sinai’s reputation as a region rich in archaeological and cultural heritage.
Walls, gates, and towers come to light
Excavations revealed part of the fortress’s southern wall, measuring about 105 meters (344 feet) long and 2.5 meters (8 feet) wide, along with a secondary gate roughly 2.2 (7 feet) meters wide.
Eleven defensive towers have been identified so far. The team also uncovered the northwestern tower and sections of the northern and western walls, despite challenges posed by shifting dunes that cover much of the site.
Unique fortress design and soldier quarters
Mohamed Abdel-Badie, Head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector, said the team also discovered a zigzag wall about 75 meters (246 feet) long on the western side of the fortress.
The wall divides the site from north to south and encloses what appears to be a residential area for soldiers. He explained that the distinctive design, typical of the New Kingdom, reflects how ancient Egyptians adapted their architecture to harsh desert conditions.
Artifacts reveal daily military life
Archaeologists also uncovered pottery fragments and foundation deposits beneath one of the towers, dating to the first half of the 18th Dynasty. Among the finds was a jar handle stamped with the name of King Thutmose I.
The artifacts discovered at the site dating to the first half of the 18th Dynasty. Credit: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
The team also discovered volcanic stones likely imported by sea from the Greek islands, as well as a large bread oven with fossilized dough remains—evidence that the fortress functioned as a self-sufficient military base, supporting the daily life of the stationed soldiers.
Next phase of exploration
Dr. Hisham Hussein, Head of the Central Department of Lower Egypt Antiquities, stated that early studies indicate the fortress underwent several phases of restoration and redesign, particularly around its southern gate.
He added that excavations will continue to uncover the remaining fortifications and surrounding structures, with hopes of locating the ancient military port that once served the fortress along the coast.
Part of a wider defensive network
Covering about 8,000 square meters (86,000 square feet)—nearly three times larger than a nearby fortress discovered in the 1980s—the site adds an important link to the chain of fortifications along the Horus Road, including Tell Heboua, Tell el-Borg, and Tell el-Abyad. Together, these discoveries highlight the strategic vision and architectural skill that defined Egypt’s New Kingdom era.
