Archaeologists in northeastern Egypt have uncovered the remnants of a 3,500-year-old royal residence, believed to have served as a retreat for Pharaoh Thutmose III during his reign. The discovery, made at Tel Habwa, sheds new light on Egypt’s military strategies and offers a fresh understanding of the region’s role in the Egyptian empire.
The royal house, constructed from mud brick, features two large central pillared halls and several smaller adjoining rooms. It is thought to have been used by Thutmose III, who reigned from 1479 BC to 1425 BC, and his military forces. Known as a warrior pharaoh, Thutmose III significantly expanded Egypt’s territory, including conquering all of Syria. This rest house is believed to have been a key structure during his military campaigns.
The proximity of the royal house to the Horus Road, an ancient military route that linked Egypt to the eastern Mediterranean and passed through what is now the Gaza Strip, suggests that the site had strategic importance. The Horus Road served as a vital link for military movements and trade during ancient times, making the royal residence an essential location for long-term military operations.
In addition to the royal building, archaeologists also uncovered several burial sites at the location, indicating that the area later functioned as a cemetery during subsequent Egyptian dynasties. This shift from a military hub to a burial ground highlights the site’s enduring significance throughout Egypt’s history.
The discovery offers new insights into the architectural and military history of ancient Egypt and underscores the strategic importance of the region during the reign of Thutmose III. It also deepens our understanding of the broader military and administrative networks that supported Egypt’s imperial expansion during this era.
