Amman, Jordan – Archaeologists have made a stunning discovery in Jordan’s iconic Wadi Rum desert: a hieroglyphic inscription bearing the royal cartouche of Pharaoh Ramses III, who ruled Egypt from 1186 to 1155 BCE. This rare find provides the first definitive evidence of ancient Egyptian presence in the region and could reshape historical understanding of trade, diplomacy, and military campaigns in the Bronze Age Levant.
A Pharaoh’s Mark in the Desert
The inscription, found near Jordan’s southern border with Saudi Arabia, includes two royal cartouches—one with Ramses III’s birth name (Usermaatre Meryamun) and another with his throne name (Ramses Heqaiunu). The discovery was made as part of a joint Jordanian-Saudi archaeological mission investigating ancient trade and military routes.
Dr. Zahi Hawass, the famed Egyptian archaeologist consulting on the project, called it a “groundbreaking” find. “This isn’t just a random engraving—it’s official Pharaonic script,” he said. “It suggests Ramses III either launched military expeditions this far east or established diplomatic and trade ties with local tribes.”
Why This Discovery Matters
Ramses III, one of Egypt’s last great warrior pharaohs, defended his empire against invasions like the infamous Sea Peoples. His reign marked the end of Egypt’s New Kingdom golden age. Until now, evidence of his influence had been found mainly in Canaan (modern-day Israel and Palestine)—but never this far into Jordan.
Jordan’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Lina Annab, emphasized the find’s significance. “This confirms that Jordan was more than just a crossroads—it was a key player in the ancient world’s political and economic networks,” she said.
What’s Next?
Researchers are now studying the inscription’s context to determine whether it marks a trade route, a military outpost, or even a previously unknown Egyptian temple site. Further excavations in Wadi Rum could reveal more clues about Egypt’s connections with ancient Arabian civilizations.
This discovery not only highlights Jordan’s rich archaeological heritage but also opens new doors for understanding Bronze Age power dynamics in the Middle East. As Dr. Hawass put it: “We’re just beginning to uncover the full story.”