Scientists in Egypt have uncovered the complete remains of a young male horse that was buried with honor more than 3,000 years ago. The discovery was made at Tell Al-Abqain, a site located in the Nile Delta's Beheira province. This location was established during Egypt's New Kingdom (1570–1069 B.C.) to safeguard the country from invasions by neighboring Libyan tribes. The site offers a glimpse into both the military operations and the daily lives of people living in ancient Egyptian fortresses.
Among the findings were a large residential complex built with mud bricks, complete with planned streets, grain storage silos, and cylindrical pottery ovens used for cooking. Dr. Hisham El-Leithy, secretary general of Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities, explained that these discoveries highlight the advanced urban planning and organized resource management that took place within the fortress.
One of the most remarkable finds was the complete burial of the horse. Initial studies suggest that it was a medium-sized breed known for speed and agility, likely used in military activities. The way the horse was positioned, with its head facing a specific direction and its body arranged orderly, indicates it was deliberately and systematically buried—an honor typically reserved for important individuals or animals. This suggests the horse may have played a significant role in military operations, possibly pulling a chariot during the New Kingdom era.
Near the horse's burial site, archaeologists found pieces of alabaster and limestone believed to have been part of a chariot harness, reinforcing the idea that the site had a military function. They also discovered a limestone stela depicting a captured Libyan prisoner, his hands tied and body bent in a posture of submission. Alongside this, the team found religious amulets associated with protection, fertility, and strength, as well as pottery vessels, ostraca (small pieces of pottery used for writing), and other artifacts used for cooking, storage, and personal adornment. These items together provide a broader picture of life in the fortress, from military endeavors to religious practices and daily routines.
Ancient Egyptian Fortress Site Reveals Warhorse Remains and Military Artifacts
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- 🇺🇸CBS News



