Tell el-Dab'a
Country: Egypt
Region: Africa
Period: 17th c.BCE
Location: 30.787419°N, 31.821367°E
Description
Tell el-Dab'a, located in the Nile Delta region of Egypt, is an important archaeological site that once served as the capital of the Hyksos during their rule over Egypt in the 17th century BCE. The site is known for its rich layers of history, representing the transition between Egypt’s Middle Kingdom and the Second Intermediate Period, when the Hyksos, a Semitic-speaking people, ruled much of northern Egypt. Tell el-Dab’a is situated near Qantara, between the towns of Ismailia and Port Said, making it accessible to modern-day travelers. Today, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into this turbulent period of Egyptian history. While it is not as famous as other Egyptian sites like Thebes or Luxor, it is invaluable for understanding the Hyksos’ impact on Egypt. The site is spread out over a large area, with numerous excavation zones revealing remnants of buildings, roads, and tombs from this ancient civilization.
Modern Remains
Modern remains at Tell el-Dab'a include several key architectural structures and artifacts from the Hyksos period. The site features ruins of Hyksos palaces, which were discovered during archaeological excavations. The Hyksos palace complex, which was heavily influenced by Near Eastern designs, is one of the most notable remains. There are also city walls and sections of streets that provide evidence of the city’s layout and urban planning. The temples dedicated to various gods of the period, including those associated with the Hyksos' religious practices, are another important feature of the site. Among the most important finds are the Hyksos-era tombs, which contain funerary items, including jewelry, pottery, and sarcophagi, that reflect the cultural mix of Egyptian and foreign traditions. Visitors can explore these remains at the archaeological site, which is open to the public with some areas still undergoing excavation. For those interested in further studying the Hyksos, there are also exhibitions and collections at nearby museums, such as the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, which house artifacts from Tell el-Dab'a. While the site is not as frequented as Egypt's more famous monuments, it is a key destination for those interested in the ancient Hyksos civilization and its influence on Egyptian history.