The remains of a warhorse from ancient Egypt have emerged, suggesting the animal received an honorific burial over 3,000 years ago. The discovery comes from Tell Al-Abqain, a site in the Nile Delta in Egypt’s Beheira province, established during the New Kingdom period (1570-1069 B.C.) to defend against Libyan tribes. The excavation uncovered not only the warhorse but also structures revealing aspects of military and daily life within ancient Egyptian fortresses.
Among the other findings were a large mudbrick residential complex with planned streets, alongside rooms containing grain-storage silos and pottery ovens designed for food preparation. These discoveries, noted by Dr. Hisham El-Leithy, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, highlight detailed urban planning and resource management within the fortress.
The position of the horse’s body, the direction of its head, and the orderly nature of the burial indicate it was deliberately and systematically interred, suggesting the animal received an honorific burial.
The complete burial of the young male horse stood out to researchers. Mohamed Abdel-Badie, head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector, indicated that preliminary studies identify the horse as a medium-sized breed known for speed and agility, likely used for military purposes, including pulling war chariots. The burial site’s nature points to deliberate and systematic interment.
Nearby, archaeologists located cylindrical alabaster and limestone pieces, part of a horse’s chariot harness, supporting the theory of the site’s military significance. Furthermore, excavations revealed limestone stelas depicting prisoners in submission postures, suggesting these were Libyan prisoners.
The team uncovered religious amulets linked to protection, fertility, renewal, and strength, accompanied by various pottery vessels and ostraca utilized for storing, cooking, and serving food, along with perfume and oil preservation. The site also yielded tools, jewelry, and additional artifacts that contribute to understanding life within the ancient fortress.