Major archaeological discoveries in Sinai reveal layers of Egypt’s ‘Eastern Fortresses’

Excavations at the Tel Abu Seifi site in North Sinai have uncovered extensive remains of ancient military fortifications, soldiers’ quarters, a wide paved road, and a large moat—offering new insights into the strategic role of Sinai as Egypt’s eastern defensive frontier across successive eras.

The discoveries were made by an Egyptian archaeological mission affiliated with the Supreme Council of Antiquities. Preliminary findings suggest the possible existence of a third, previously unknown fortress at the site, predating both the Ptolemaic and Roman fortresses already identified.

Sherif Fathi, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, hailed the findings as a breakthrough in understanding Egypt’s eastern military defenses during the Greco-Roman period. He described Tel Abu Seifi as a long-standing military and industrial center whose significance evolved over time.

Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, noted that the discoveries help redraw Egypt’s ancient eastern defense map. “Sinai has always been Egypt’s eastern gateway and first line of defense,” he said. He added that the mission unearthed distinctive architectural elements of the eastern gates belonging to the Ptolemaic and Roman fortresses, which will allow historians to reimagine ancient military entryways more accurately.