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Egypt

Wadi al-Jarf

Oldest known artificial harbor in Egypt

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

About

Wadi al-Jarf is an archaeological site located on the Red Sea coast of Egypt, recognized as the world's oldest known artificial harbor, dating back approximately 4,500 years to the Fourth Dynasty of Egypt. The site features a harbor complex with a stone jetty, storage galleries, and a building of unknown function, believed to be associated with maritime activities. Notably, it contains numerous anchors and storage jars, indicative of trade and transportation activities. The discovery of papyrus fragments, including the Diary of Merer, at the site provides invaluable insights into the logistics of pyramid construction and daily life during Pharaoh Khufu's reign. These papyri are the oldest ever found in Egypt, emphasizing the site's historical significance.

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Storage Structures

Storage Jars

Miscellaneous Features

Papyrus

Water Management Features

Harbors

Transportation and Communication Structures

Quays

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Egypt
Source
Wikipedia