Archaeologists Uncover Roman-Era Circular Water Temple at Ancient Pelusium Site in Egypt
Archaeologists have uncovered a circular water temple from the second century at Tell el-Farama, known as ancient Pelusium, located in northern Sinai, Egypt. After six years of digging, they revealed a basin measuring 35 meters in diameter that is connected to the Pelusiac Nile. Initially believed to be a Greco-Roman senate structure, it has now been recognized as a sacred water facility. The brick construction showcases Roman architectural influences while merging Egyptian and Hellenic elements. Hisham Hussein confirmed its religious significance, and Mohamed Abdel-Badii proposed a link to the local deity Pelusius. This site highlights cultural exchanges, with Pelusium being a trading center and Roman capital. Experts from Sorbonne University contributed to comparative research, and Sherif Fathi highlighted the archaeological promise of the area.
Key facts
- A circular water temple was discovered at Tell el-Farama in northern Sinai, Egypt.
- The temple dates to the second century and features a 35-meter diameter basin.
- Initial excavation in 2019 revealed a Greco-Roman building with three circular benches.
- The structure's brick construction indicates Roman rather than Egyptian origins.
- The site is believed to be a sacred water installation used in religious rituals.
- The local god Pelusius, possibly a fertility deity, may be connected to the temple.
- Pelusium was founded around 800BC and served as a cultural crossroads and trading hub.
- Researchers consulted experts at Sorbonne University in Paris for comparative analysis.
Entities
Artists
- Mohamed Abdel-Badii
- Hisham Hussein
- Hisham Lithi
- Hector Williams
- Steve Harvey
- Sherif Fathi
- Plutarch
- Alexander the Great
- Ptolemy I Soter
- Osiris
- Apis
- Zeus
- Isis
- Hades
- Serapis
- Pelusius
Institutions
- Egyptian Archaeological Sector
- Supreme Council of Antiquities
- Central Department for Maritime Antiquities and Sinai
- Sorbonne University
- University of British Columbia
- The Art Newspaper
- Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
- Senate Council of Pelusium
Locations
- Tell el-Farama
- Pelusium
- Sinai
- Egypt
- Port Said
- Paris
- France
- Roman Britain
- Syria
- North Sinai
- Mediterranean
- Nile Delta
- Pelusiac Nile