3,200-Year-Old Egyptian Military Barracks Found with Sword Inscribed with Ramesses II’s Name

A latest excavation in Egypt has uncovered a 3,200-year-old army barracks containing a treasure trove of historic artefacts, together with a sword inscribed with the identify of Pharaoh Ramesses II. This discovery sheds gentle on Egypt’s army operations throughout Ramesses II’s reign, a time when threats from the Libyans have been rising. The barracks additionally contained storerooms for grain, ovens for baking, and pottery crammed with animal bones, together with fish. Additionally, archaeologists discovered cow burials on the web site, main specialists to counsel these animals have been used for meals.

Discovery of Bronze Sword and Limestone Blocks

Among essentially the most important finds was a bronze sword inscribed with Ramesses II’s identify, found in a small room close to what may need been a defensive place. According to Ahmed El Kharadly, an archaeologist with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, this means the sword was supposed for fight and never merely ceremonial use.

The excavation additionally uncovered two limestone blocks with hieroglyphic inscriptions, one bearing the identify of Ramesses II and the opposite referring to an official named Bay.

Strategic Military Location

The barracks have been positioned alongside a army highway within the northwest Nile Delta, a strategic level the place Egyptian forces might defend towards potential invasions from the western desert and the Mediterranean. The location of this web site aligns with historic accounts indicating rising tensions between Egypt and Libyan teams.

Professor Anthony Spalinger from the University of Auckland famous that the garrison probably performed a key function in controlling entry to Egypt throughout this era.

Significance of the Discovery

Peter Brand, a historical past professor on the University of Memphis, highlighted the significance of the discover for understanding the army technique of Ramesses II. This well-preserved barracks provides uncommon insights into the logistics of Egypt’s armed forces on the time.