CAIRO, June 6 (Xinhua) -- An Egyptian-French joint archaeological mission has uncovered an integrated water management system dating to the Mamluk era (1250-1517) near the Saladin Citadel in Cairo, one of the most important landmarks of Islamic Cairo, Egyptian authorities said Saturday.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the system included two large wells for water storage and lifting, each connected to waterwheel mechanisms that raised water to higher levels.
The mission also uncovered related architectural and service facilities, including animal pathways used to operate the waterwheels, stables, fodder storage rooms, watering basins, and various stone floors, the statement said.
The findings reveal advanced infrastructure and water systems in historic Cairo, reflecting sophisticated urban and engineering planning during the Islamic periods, it said.
The findings could help understand the urban and functional structure of the Citadel complex throughout these periods, it added. ■