Monday, 25 May 2026
How Egypt’s North Sinai is reviving a forgotten archaeological treasure
In the soft golden light of dawn, the ancient walls of Pelusium—known in Arabic as Al-Farma—cast their long shadows across the sprawling sands of North Sinai. Where once armies marched and pilgrims traveled, a new kind of movement is underway: a dedicated effort to preserve, restore, and share Egypt’s rich historical tapestry with the world.
Today, Egypt announced the completion of a meticulous restoration of several significant monuments in Al-Farma, an archaeological gem quietly nestled on the Mediterranean coast.
The project forms part of Egypt’s broader Sinai Development Initiative, reflecting a national vision to balance economic growth with safeguarding invaluable cultural heritage.
Guardians of history
Leading the restoration, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, along with the Supreme Council of Antiquities, have breathed new life into Al-Farma’s storied ruins.
The city—known to historians as Pelusium—has borne silent witness to pivotal moments throughout Egypt’s long history.
“This project is at the heart of our commitment to sustainable development, showcasing Sinai’s historical significance while preserving Egypt’s civilizational heritage for generations to come,” emphasized Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Mr. Sherif Fathy.
The restoration included support and stabilization for several of Al-Farma’s most iconic features: the imposing fortress walls and towers (stretching across some 80,000 square meters), the remnants of the Roman-era Sheikhs’ Building, the graceful southern Roman bath, the ruins of the unique rotunda-style Western Church from the 5th century CE, and the prominent Southern Church. Each site tells its own story—of faith, resilience, and the confluence of cultures at the crossroads of Africa and Asia.
In a remarkable feat, experts also undertook the painstaking conservation of the inscribed lintels unearthed at the Temple of Zeus Kasios. Their work preserves the artistic and architectural signatures that make this site a rare testament to the civilizations that flourished here.
Science meets tradition
The restoration was far from simple. According to Dr. Abdallah Sokkar, head of restoration in North Sinai, every phase drew upon cutting-edge scientific analysis. Teams scrutinized and tested the original construction materials to ensure that every replacement upheld both the integrity and authenticity of these age-old edifices.
A new chapter for Sinai
For those who cherish history and adventure, Al-Farma’s revival is more than a conservation effort—it’s an invitation. The restored monuments are poised to be central to the development of local tourism, creating fresh opportunities for communities and connecting visitors to the region’s vibrant, layered narrative.
As Egypt patiently unlocks the secrets of this once-forgotten city, Al-Farma stands as a testament not only to past grandeur but also to the promise of renewal, understanding, and appreciation. Through devoted stewardship, North Sinai’s ancient stones may soon resonate with new footsteps, laughter, and stories—woven together by the hands and hearts determined to keep history alive.