Archaeologists in Egypt have made a significant discovery. They found an ancient settlement from the Second Intermediate Period. This period is important in discussions about the historical context of the biblical Exodus. The site is located at Tell el-Koua in the Wadi Tumilat region. This area served as a link between the eastern Nile Delta and Egypt’s eastern frontier.

The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities made the announcement in late June. The discovery includes tombs from the 15th Dynasty and evidence of occupation extending into the 18th Dynasty. This period covers the transition from Hyksos rule to the New Kingdom. The Hyksos were rulers in northern Egypt around 3,600 years ago before Egyptians expelled them.

At the site, archaeologists uncovered several features. These include 10 mudbrick tombs, remains of homes, ovens used for production, and grain storage silos. They also found a walled neighborhood from the Second Intermediate Period. Additionally, items like scarab amulets, bronze tools, pottery, alabaster containers, and human remains were recovered. Animal bones linked to daily meals and funeral offerings were also found.

The discovery was announced on June 29 at the Tell el-Koua archaeological site. Excavations revealed a residential complex measuring about 98-by-197 feet, with large halls and rooms. Kilns and grain storage silos were found just east of the settlement.

This discovery also revealed human burials outside mudbrick tombs, some in a crouched position. This unusual burial practice requires further study. Pottery analysis indicates extensive daily use of the site, with tableware being most common.

Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy noted that the site functioned as an integrated community. It had residential areas, storage facilities, production areas, and burial grounds. He praised the efforts of both Egyptian and foreign archaeological missions in uncovering more of Ancient Egypt’s past.

The findings date back to a period that figures in debates about the timing of the biblical Exodus. Last year, another remarkable discovery was made from this period. Archaeologists uncovered a rare 3,600-year-old pharaoh’s tomb 23 feet beneath the desert near Abydos.