Wadi El-Jarf: Egypt's Ancient Maritime Gateway

Wadi El-Jarf, located on the Red Sea coast approximately 119 km (74 mi) south of Suez, is an area of immense historical significance as it holds the remains of the oldest known artificial harbor in the world. Dating back roughly 4,500 years to the Fourth Dynasty of Egypt, this ancient port offers a fascinating glimpse into the maritime capabilities and trade networks of the early Egyptians. The harbor complex features a remarkable L-shaped jetty, stretching 200 meters east and then south, creating a protected basin for ships. While mostly submerged today, the jetty's remains are still visible, attesting to the advanced engineering of the time. The site also includes storage galleries carved into the rock, a large building of unknown function, and evidence of mooring installations. Wadi El-Jarf served as a crucial starting point for Egyptian voyages to the South Sinai mining operations, facilitating the extraction of copper and turquoise. Some speculate that it may also have been a launch point for expeditions to the Land of Punt, a mysterious trading partner of ancient Egypt. The harbor's construction is attributed to the reign of Pharaoh Khufu (2589–2566 B.C.), with inscriptions of his name found on limestone blocks at the site. The archaeological discoveries at Wadi El-Jarf include over 100 anchors, the first Old Kingdom anchors found in their original context, along with numerous storage jars and papyrus fragments. These papyri, the oldest ever found in Egypt, provide invaluable insights into the daily lives and activities of the people who lived and worked at the harbor during the Fourth Dynasty.