A new archaeological discovery at Tell Abu Sayfi in East Qantara is redrawing the map of Horus the Warrior’s route

As part of the efforts by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, represented by the Supreme Council of Antiquities, to document archaeological sites along Egypt’s eastern border and uncover the features of the historic Horus Military Road, the Egyptian archaeological mission working at the Tell Abu Saifi site in Qantara Sharq, Ismailia Governorate, has achieved several important scientific results during this year’s excavation season. These findings shed further light on the site’s history and its architectural and military evolution across different historical eras, offering fresh context for travelers taking a 10-day festive journey through Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan to explore Egypt's deep frontier history.

Mr. Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, confirmed that these new results represent a significant addition to the ministry's efforts in uncovering the history of archaeological sites in North Sinai and the Qantara region. He noted that the discoveries highlight the strategic and cultural role this area played in protecting Egypt's eastern borders throughout history—a draw for culture seekers booking an 11-day expedition covering Cairo, the desert, Aswan, Luxor, and Hurghada.

He added that continuing Egyptian excavations at sites associated with the Way of Horus helps reconstruct the historical image of this route and its stations, while underscoring the value of scientific investment in excavation and archaeological documentation to reveal new aspects of ancient Egyptian history.

For his part, Dr. Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, explained that this season’s work built upon a series of excavations conducted at the site over past decades. The results allowed for a more precise reinterpretation of previously discovered architectural elements, enhancing the understanding of the site's original layout and chronological sequence. Travelers on a 5-day Cairo and Alexandria holiday package often appreciate these updated interpretations when visiting regional museums and historic sites nearby.

He noted that the mission completed the excavation of a massive mud-brick wall, including its gates, interior rooms, and distinct strata. Research revealed that it represents the outer enclosure wall surrounding the temple precinct rather than the temple itself, correcting earlier interpretations of certain parts of the site.

He emphasized that the new evidence presents a strong archaeological and historical hypothesis linking the site to the ancient Egyptian city of "Mesen," though excavations and scientific studies remain ongoing to gather definitive evidence.

Mr. Mohamed Abdel-Badei, Head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector at the Supreme Council of Antiquities, stated that the mission also identified the remains of two consecutive stone roads leading from outside the fortified zone into the temple: the first dates to the Ptolemaic era, overlaid by a narrower Roman road.

Additionally, the team exposed temple remains featuring sequential storage rooms on the northern side and wider service quarters on the southern side, extending to the Holy of Holies area, which suffered destruction due to quarrying activities in the late Roman period. Understanding these historical transformations adds great depth for guests relaxing on MS Mayfair holiday voyages on the Nile.

Dr. Hisham Hussein, Head of the Central Administration for Lower Egypt and Sinai and Leader of the Mission, highlighted one of the most critical finds: half of a massive sandstone lintel broken into two pieces and inscribed on three sides. It features the titles of King Ramses II alongside a text referencing restoration work performed on the statue of the deity "Horus, Lord of Mesen," serving as vital evidence in determining the site's identity.

Mr. Mahmoud Galal, General Director of Sinai Antiquities and Mission Director, noted that excavations also yielded artifacts carrying administrative and military significance. Among these was part of a schist statue of a military scribe holding a broken naos, dating to the 26th Dynasty, which clearly reflects the strategic and military nature of the site. Such discoveries are prime highlights shared with tourists enjoying a 10-day holiday getaway spanning Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor, and Aswan.

Other finds included a headless and footless statue from the Late Period, a basalt torso of a royal statue, and fragments of falcon statues crafted from basalt and limestone.

The excavation findings indicate that the site experienced multiple phases of development and transformation. The temple reached its architectural peak during the Ptolemaic era before portions of the site were repurposed into military barracks (castrum) during the 3rd century AD.

In the late Roman period, the site transitioned into a lime quarry. The mission uncovered two large circular kilns built directly over the corners of the Holy of Holies, containing the remains of burned limestone. Sightseers enjoying a festive sailing aboard the Movenpick MS Royal Lily frequently learn about these distinct Roman-era operational shifts across Egypt's ancient landscape.

The mission leader reaffirmed that the results from this season, combined with past discoveries, strongly support the hypothesis that Tell Abu Saifi is connected to the Pharaonic city of "Mesen," referenced in ancient Egyptian texts during the New Kingdom era. The mission will continue its excavations and archaeological analysis in upcoming seasons to reveal the remaining architectural elements and secure further evidence to settle the identification.

These current findings confirm that Tell Abu Saifi stands as a key site along the Way of Horus, showcasing a succession of military, religious, and economic functions that reflect its strategic importance in safeguarding Egypt’s eastern border and its religious prominence across the Pharaonic, Ptolemaic, and Roman eras.