Ancient Settlement Discovered in Egypt’s Second Intermediate Period

Archaeologists in Egypt have made a significant discovery of an ancient settlement. This settlement dates back to the Second Intermediate Period, a time often discussed in relation to the historical setting of the biblical Exodus. The site was found at Tell el-Koua in the Wadi Tumilat region, a key corridor connecting the eastern Nile Delta with Egypt’s eastern border.

The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced the find in June. The site includes 15th Dynasty tombs and evidence that it remained occupied into the 18th Dynasty. This spans a crucial transition from Hyksos rule to the New Kingdom. The Hyksos were rulers over much of northern Egypt around 3,600 years ago before being expelled.

The site features 10 mudbrick tombs, remnants of homes, production ovens, grain storage silos, and a walled neighborhood from the Second Intermediate Period. Artefacts found include scarab amulets, bronze tools, pottery, alabaster containers, and both human and animal remains. These remains are believed to be connected to daily meals and funeral offerings.

Among the notable discoveries is a residential complex measuring approximately 98-by-197 feet. This complex contains remains of large halls and rooms. Additionally, human burials were found outside the tombs, including individuals in a crouched position, which is considered an unusual practice warranting further study.

The pottery found at the site suggests intensive daily use, with a significant amount of tableware and cooking vessels. According to Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy, the site functioned as an integrated community featuring residential areas, storage facilities, production zones, and burial grounds.

Fathy lauded the collaborative efforts of Egyptian and foreign archaeological missions in shedding light on Ancient Egypt’s history. The find contributes to ongoing scholarly debates about the historical context of the biblical Exodus.