An Egyptian archaeological mission announced on Saturday the discovery of military fortifications, soldiers' quarters, and a defensive trench at Tell Abu Seifi in North Sinai's archaeological zone, northeastern Egypt, during its current excavation season.

Key Discoveries:

• Military fortifications from Ptolemaic and Roman eras

• Soldiers' residential units

• Defensive trench system (over 2 meters deep)

• Ancient paved road (11m wide, 100m+ long)

• Four large lime production kilns

• Possible third fortress (older than Ptolemaic/Roman structures)

Official Statements:

Dr. Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, emphasized:

"This discovery reveals secrets of Egypt's eastern military defenses during Ptolemaic and Roman times, confirming Tell Abu Seifi's role as a military and industrial hub across ages."

Dr. Mohamed Ismail, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, noted:

"These findings help reconstruct Egypt's eastern border defenses, reaffirming Sinai's historic role as Egypt's eastern gateway and first line of protection."

Architectural Highlights:
✔ Dual-gate system of Ptolemaic and Roman fortresses
✔ 500+ clay circles (likely for ornamental trees) along limestone-paved road
✔ Roman-era cavalry barracks from Emperor Diocletian's reign
✔ Industrial conversion evidence (lime kilns replacing stone structures in late Roman period)

Historical Significance:

• Reveals defensive adaptation strategies (trench could be disabled during threats)

• Shows site evolution from Ptolemaic military base to Roman industrial center

• Confirms strategic shift from ancient Tharo (Tell Habua) to Tell Abu Seifi as Nile's course changed

Ongoing Research:
The mission, led by Dr. Hisham Hussein, Director-General of Sinai Antiquities, is currently dating the potential third fortress evidenced by:

• Four corner remains

• Rectangular layered residential structures

• Newly discovered trench system

Tell Abu Seifi's location served as a critical eastern frontier post, with its importance growing as Egypt's coastline receded.

Visual Reconstruction Available:
The Ministry released 3D models showing:

• Original fortress layouts

• Defensive trench mechanisms

• Road alignment between fortresses