Wadi al-Jarf, Archaeological site in Red Sea Governorate, Egypt.
Wadi al-Jarf is an ancient harbor on the Red Sea coast featuring an L-shaped structure that extends into the water. The site contains 25 storage galleries carved into limestone cliffs, along with the remains of vessels and various everyday artifacts.
The port was built during the reign of Pharaoh Khufu in the Fourth Dynasty and is the world's oldest known artificial seaport. Papyrus documents discovered between 2011 and 2013 confirmed that the site was actively used for trade during that era.
The port served as a vital trading hub for ancient Egyptians, revealing how important maritime commerce was to their civilization. The storage spaces and vessels tell us much about the economic activities and daily routines of those who worked here.
The site sits along the Red Sea coast where conditions can be windy and hot, making sun protection essential for a comfortable visit. The location is relatively remote and requires good preparation and appropriate gear before exploring.
Twenty-one limestone anchors from the Fourth Dynasty period remain submerged underwater, revealing the engineering skill of ancient Egyptians. These anchors stand as evidence of a maritime tradition that predates many other ancient civilizations.
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