Archaeologists made a stunning discovery in northern Egypt - the ruins of an unknown city, built in the new kingdom over 3400 years ago, were discovered. This can change the idea of the region's settlement long before the Greeks arrive.
The ruins are located 43 km west of Alexandria, near the Mediterranean coast. Earlier, scientists believed that this area was inhabited only in the IV century BC, during the Hellenistic period. But new findings testify to much old origin. The analysis of the brick showed: the settlement emerged during the new kingdom (1550-1070 BC). That is, it existed already during the Pharaohs of Eknaton and Ramsses II.
Archaeologists have discovered: Ramsses II Temple and private burial chapels. The ruins of a thoroughly planned city with a drainage system - for drainage of water and protection against erosion. The sting on the pitcher with the name Meritaton - the daughter of Pharaoh Eknaton and Nefertiti. This may indicate the connection of settlement with the royal family. It can be a military settlement surrounded by fortifications, with administrative buildings, temples and vineyards that guarded the soldiers. According to researchers, the jug named Meritaton indicates that the vineyards of the royal family who served or guarded the military could be in the region. The city could have arisen during the religious reform of Eknaten, who promoted the cult of the god of Aton. Subsequently, his son - the famous Pharaoh Tutanhamomon - restored polytheistic religion.
Excavations are currently underway. Scientists hope: set the exact size of the city; find out the date of its foundation; And maybe find out its long -standing name.
