Ancient Tombs & Settlement Unearthed at Tell El Koua in Ismailia

An Egyptian archaeological mission has uncovered a group of tombs, a residential settlement and production facilities at Tell El Koua in Wadi Al Tumilat, Ismailia, shedding new light on life in Egypt's eastern Delta during the Second Intermediate Period.

Excavations uncovered 10 mudbrick tombs dating to the 15th Dynasty, including rectangular mastaba-style structures alongside others featuring decorated facades and architectural elements. The settlement contains organised residential units with halls and multiple rooms, as well as ovens and storage silos located to the east.

Among the artefacts recovered were scarabs, bronze tools, pottery vessels, alabaster kohl containers and bottles made from Tell El Yahudiya ware, a ceramic style characteristic of the Second Intermediate Period.

Human remains found at the site belonged to individuals estimated to have been between 25 and 40 years old, with burials displaying a variety of funerary positions. Archaeologists also identified, for the first time at Tell El Koua, burials located outside the mudbrick tombs, including several individuals interred in a crouched position, an uncommon practice that the ministry said requires further study.

Large quantities of animal bones were also recovered, indicating both everyday consumption and their use as funerary offerings. Analysis of the pottery suggests the settlement was heavily occupied, with tableware making up the largest share of ceramic finds, followed by cooking vessels.

The ministry said evidence indicates the site remained occupied until the middle of the 18th Dynasty, suggesting continuity through the transition from Hyksos rule to the New Kingdom. Some pottery fragments also bear production marks and seals pointing to extensive trade networks, indicating Tell El Koua may have served as a regional distribution centre or important trading hub.