Ancient barracks unearthed with sword inscribed with Egyptian pharaoh

A recent excavation in Egypt has unearthed a 3,200-year-old military barracks containing a trove of ancient artifacts, including a sword bearing the name of Pharaoh Ramesses II. The discovery sheds light on Egypt’s military operations during Ramesses II’s reign, a time when the threat from the Libyans was increasing. The barracks also contained storage areas for grain, ovens for baking, and pottery filled with animal bones, including fish. In addition, archaeologists found cow burials at the site, leading experts to suggest that these animals were used for food.

Discovery of bronze sword and limestone blocks

Among the most important finds was a bronze sword with the name of Ramesses II engraved on it, discovered in a small room near what may have been a defensive position. According to According to Ahmed El Kharadly, an archaeologist with Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, this suggests that the sword was intended for combat and not just ceremonial purposes.

The excavations also revealed two limestone blocks with hieroglyphic inscriptions, one of which bears the name of Ramesses II and the other refers to an official named Bay.

Strategic military location

The barracks were located along a military road in the northwestern Nile Delta, a strategic point where Egyptian forces could defend themselves against possible invasions from the Western Desert and the Mediterranean Sea. The location of this site is consistent with historical accounts that point to increasing tensions between Egypt and Libyan groups.

Professor Anthony Spalinger of the University of Auckland noted that the garrison probably played an important role in controlling access to Egypt during this period.

Significance of the discovery

Peter Brand, a history professor at the University of Memphis, stressed the importance of the find for understanding Ramesses II’s military strategy. These well-preserved barracks offer rare insights into the logistics of the Egyptian military at the time.