Ancient ruins: The ruins of an Egyptian army barracks have been discovered by archaeologists, together with the items that were kept within, such as a brilliant metal sword-bearing King Ramses II’s name etched in hieroglyphic characters.
According to a statement issued by Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the complex was made up of warehouses to store food and ammunition as well as barracks to house soldiers in a key site in the northwest of the nation, some 90 kilometers (56 miles) south of Alexandria.
At the height of the ancient empire’s might, soldiers could use the position to repel raids by Libyan tribes and sea peoples against Egypt’s northwest boundaries.
The actual age of the fort is unknown, however, Ramses II ruled from 1279 to 1213 BC. The second-longest reign in Egyptian history was his. When the fort was in operation, Egypt was experiencing what the ministry called the New Kingdom, a period of political and economic stability.
These barracks in the north were necessary because Egypt waged multiple battles against the Hittites and Libyans under Ramses II, whose name was also inscribed on a limestone block discovered near the fort.
Meanwhile, art and culture blossomed, leaving a number of items for archaeologists to sort through. Numerous personal belongings of the soldiers there were found during the dig, providing insight into their day-to-day activities.
These products included ivory kohl applicators, hunting gear, personal accessories, and war-used weapons. Along with half a metal ring, archaeologists also discovered necklaces made of carnelian and faience beads, two semi-precious stone kinds utilized by the ancient Egyptians.
At the barracks, various kinds of scarab beetles with references to Egyptian gods were also discovered. In addition to these specific objects, the news release states that archaeologists discovered the burial place of a cow, which was thought to be connected to divine forces and to symbolize strength, abundance, and prosperity.
Mohammad Ismail Khaled, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, noted in the announcement that all the buildings were constructed of mud bricks and placed in two identical blocks, divided by a narrow walkway.
According to Ayman Ashmawy, chairman of the Supreme Council of Antiquities’ Egyptian antiquities division, some of the rooms were used to store food, and there are still traces of huge ceramics and animal bones.