An archaeological mission in South Sinai, Egypt, has uncovered ancient copper smelting workshops, administrative buildings, and observation posts at the Wadi al-Nasb site, offering new insight into Egypt’s long history of mining.
The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced the discovery on Sunday, describing it as part of ongoing excavations aimed at documenting Sinai’s role in supplying metals to ancient Egypt. Officials said the find underscores the region’s strategic importance as a source of copper and turquoise and reflects Egypt’s enduring presence in the area.
Ministry links discovery to heritage and tourism
Tourism and Antiquities Minister Sharif Fathy said the mission’s work highlights the pioneering role of ancient Egyptians in managing mineral resources. He added that linking these achievements to modern concepts of sustainable development can also open new horizons for cultural tourism in Sinai, which still holds many secrets.
Evidence shows centuries of mining
Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, stated that excavations have revealed architectural and industrial evidence indicating that mining at Wadi al-Nasb continued from the Old Kingdom through the Late Period. He noted that activity flourished during the New Kingdom, when smelting operations reached their peak.
Archaeologists uncovered copper alloy ingots of different shapes and sizes, along with blowpipe heads, which he said confirmed the existence of an organized system for producing and casting copper before it was transported to the Nile Valley for use in crafts, weaponry, and administration.
Central workshop and tools uncovered
According to the ministry, the team also unearthed part of a large central workshop that contained multiple smelting furnaces. Finds included ore preparation tools, pottery crucibles, amphorae, vessels, and large amounts of coal made from local trees.
Blocks of pure clay used to produce tuyères, blowpipe heads of different sizes, copper slag, and ingots — one weighing more than a kilogram — were also discovered.
Sandstone buildings reveal a dual purpose
Mohamed Abdel-Badie, head of the Egyptian, Greek, and Roman Antiquities Sector at the council, said two sandstone buildings were identified: one at the western entrance of Wadi al-Nasb and another east of its junction with Wadi al-Sour. Both were first used as observation points and later converted into workshops with several furnaces during the New Kingdom.
A third structure hints at earlier activity
Mission leader Hisham Hussein, who also heads the Central Administration for Lower Egypt Antiquities, said the team examined a third sandstone building at the southern edge of Wadi al-Sour. The structure likely served as a control and monitoring post for mining expeditions and may date to before the New Kingdom.
Officials said the mission continues its work at Wadi al-Nasb, seeking more evidence that will deepen understanding of Sinai’s place in Egypt’s industrial and economic history.
