Egypt unveils major archaeological discovery in Halayeb’s Aydhab Port

Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has announced a major archaeological discovery at the ancient port of Aydhab on the Red Sea coast in Halayeb, shedding new light on one of the country’s most significant medieval maritime hubs.

An Egyptian archaeological mission from the Supreme Council of Antiquities uncovered large water cisterns and service buildings, revealing the advanced infrastructure that once supported trade and pilgrimage activities at the historic port.

The discovery highlights Egypt’s strategic role as a cultural and commercial crossroads throughout history, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy said on Thursday.

He also underscored the importance of Red Sea ports in facilitating trade and serving pilgrims during the Islamic era. He added that the ministry remains committed to archaeological excavations in border regions because of their considerable historical and cultural significance.

The cisterns played a vital role in sustaining maritime and commercial activity and meeting the needs of pilgrims travelling through the port, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, Hesham El-Leithy, explained.

Excavations uncovered a massive cistern measuring 15.1 metresin length, 3.15 metres in width and nearly 3 metres in height. The structure was built using sandstone and coral stone and coated with lime plaster to prevent water leakage. Additional cisterns were also discovered in the southern section of the site, El-Leithy added.

Archaeological surveys around the excavation area revealed remains of residential buildings, watchtowers and service facilities, indicating the existence of a well-organisedadministrative and logistical system for managing the port. The mission also unearthed pottery fragments dating back to the Fatimid period, including green-glazed pieces, alongside imported Chinese ceramics, reflecting Aydhab’s extensive trade links with India, Yemen and East Africa.

Aydhab was one of the most important Red Sea ports during the Middle Ages, serving as a major transit point for pilgrims from Egypt and North Africa travelling to the holy lands, while also functioning as a key centre for maritime trade.