CAIRO, May 4 (Xinhua) -- An Egyptian archeological mission has uncovered the remains of military fortresses and residential units for soldiers dating back to the Ptolemaic and Roman periods, in the North Sinai province, according to the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.
A ministry statement released Saturday said the findings were made at the historical site of Tell Abu Seify, a location of strategic importance throughout antiquity. The Ptolemaic period in Egypt spanned from 332 BC to 30 BC, followed by the Roman era, which lasted until 395 AD.
The discovery offers insights into the design and function of eastern military fortifications during the two eras, underlining the significance of Tell Abu Seify as a prominent military and industrial hub, the statement said.
The mission also uncovered two specially designed eastern gates for previously discovered Ptolemaic and Roman castles, which would contribute to deepening the understanding of ancient defensive gates.
In addition, more than 500 circular formations made of mud brick were uncovered near the castle entrances, which were likely used for tree planting during the Ptolemaic period, the statement added.
The mission also unearthed some houses for hosting Roman-era soldiers, it noted.■
