Shalfak, Egyptian fortress on Lake Nubia island, Sudan
Shalfak is an Egyptian fortress on an ancient Nubian island that features a triangular layout surrounded by thick mudbrick walls. The site has two entrance gates on opposite sides and includes an eastern wall that shelters a stairway leading down to the water.
The fortress was built during Egypt's Middle Kingdom period under Pharaoh Senusret III around 1870 to 1850 BCE as part of a border defense network. It was one of several installations constructed along the river at that time to protect Egyptian territorial interests.
The original name Waf-Chastiu means 'subduing the foreign lands' and reflects the Egyptian military role in ancient Nubia. This naming reveals how important this location was for controlling the region.
The site is accessible only by boat, so boat access must be arranged beforehand. Visitors should bring water, sun protection, and sturdy footwear since navigation across the ruins and the stone stairway can be uneven.
The fortress is one of only a handful of Middle Kingdom structures that remain visible above the reservoir's water level today. It still preserves traces of its original wooden and reed components that have survived for over 3800 years.
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