Settlements > Avaris

Avaris

Background

Avaris, also known as Pi-Ramesses during the New Kingdom period, was a significant ancient Egyptian settlement located in the northeastern Nile Delta region, near the modern town of Tell el-Dab'a in Egypt. It played a crucial role in the history of ancient Egypt, particularly during the Second Intermediate Period and the New Kingdom. Here's an overview of the ancient Egyptian settlement of Avaris:

1. Location and Importance:

   • Avaris was strategically situated in the northeastern Nile Delta, near the eastern branch of the Nile River and the border with the Levant.
   • Its location made it a vital trading hub and a gateway to the eastern Mediterranean, connecting Egypt with the Levant, Canaan, and other Near Eastern regions.

2. History:

   • Avaris dates back to the Middle Kingdom period (c. 2055 BCE - c. 1650 BCE), but it rose to prominence during the Second Intermediate Period (c. 1650 BCE - c. 1550 BCE) when it served as the capital of the Hyksos, a foreign dynasty that ruled over northern Egypt.
   • The city was later reclaimed by the pharaoh Ahmose I, founder of the New Kingdom, who expelled the Hyksos and reunited Egypt under native rule.
   • During the New Kingdom period, Avaris was rebuilt and expanded by Ramesses II (also known as Ramesses the Great), who established the new capital city of Pi-Ramesses nearby.

3. Cultural Exchange:

   • Avaris was a melting pot of cultures, influenced by interactions with foreign powers such as the Hyksos, Canaanites, Levantines, and other Near Eastern peoples.
   • The city's diverse population included Egyptians and foreigners, contributing to its cosmopolitan character and cultural richness.

4. Archaeological Discoveries:

   • Excavations at Avaris have uncovered remains of palaces, temples, houses, workshops, and other structures dating to various periods of ancient Egyptian history.
   • Archaeological finds include pottery, jewelry, tools, weapons, and other artifacts that provide insights into the daily life, material culture, and social organization of the ancient inhabitants.

5. Religious and Political Centers:

   • Avaris was home to temples dedicated to various Egyptian and foreign deities, reflecting its multicultural and syncretic religious practices.
   • The city served as a political and administrative center, housing the royal palace, government offices, and military garrisons during the Hyksos period and the New Kingdom.

6. Trade and Commerce:

   • Avaris was a thriving commercial center, engaged in trade with neighboring regions and civilizations, including the Levant, Canaan, Cyprus, Greece, and the Aegean islands.
   • The city served as a hub for the exchange of goods such as grain, textiles, metals, pottery, wine, olive oil, and luxury items, facilitating economic prosperity and cultural exchange.

In summary, Avaris was an ancient Egyptian settlement of great historical and cultural significance, serving as the capital of the Hyksos during the Second Intermediate Period and later as a prominent city during the New Kingdom. Its strategic location, multicultural population, and economic prosperity made it a vibrant center of civilization and a symbol of Egypt's interactions with the wider Near Eastern world.