Archaeologists in Egypt have recently uncovered an ancient fortress built along the historic military road referenced in the Book of Exodus. The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced the significant discovery on October 11 in an official release.
The fortress was found at the Tell El-Kharouba archaeological site in Sheikh Zuweid, a Bedouin town located in North Sinai. Dating back to the New Kingdom period—roughly between 1550 and 1070 B.C.—this ancient outpost is at least 3,000 years old and was constructed during the era traditionally associated with the biblical Exodus.
Exodus 13:17 states:
“When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, ‘If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.’ So God led the people around by the desert road toward the Red Sea.”
The shorter route mentioned in this verse is known as the Horus Military Road—the very location where the fortress was discovered. This route historically connected Egypt to Canaan, underscoring its strategic importance.
Officials described the new discovery as “one of the largest and most significant fortresses discovered along the Horus Military Road.” Archaeologists uncovered not only the fortress itself but also pottery fragments, ceramic vessels, and a jar handle stamped with the name of King Thutmose I, who ruled approximately from 1506 to 1493 B.C.
So far, eleven defensive towers have been identified within the fortress, which spans an impressive 86,100 square feet. It was one of many strongholds built to protect Egypt’s eastern borders and secure vital trade routes.
Additionally, the archaeological team discovered quantities of volcanic stones likely transported by sea from the volcanoes of the Greek islands. Nearby, they found a large bread oven and remnants of fossilized dough. These finds confirm that the fortress was a fully functioning center supporting the daily lives of soldiers stationed there.
“This discovery represents a tangible embodiment of the genius of the ancient Egyptians in constructing an integrated defensive system to protect Egypt’s land,” said Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, in a statement translated from Arabic to English. He added, “It reveals new chapters of Egypt’s distinguished military history and reinforces Sinai’s status as a land bearing unique civilizational evidence across the ages.”
This remarkable find not only sheds light on Egypt’s military prowess in antiquity but also contributes valuable insights into the region’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
https://nypost.com/2025/10/27/world-news/3000-year-old-egyptian-fortress-links-back-to-biblical-exodus/