Site 346:Interaction with Local Bedouin:During the course of the season we were very fortunate to have Reis Ayad in charge of our Bedouin worforce (employed primarily in the removal of sand from the 60 metre long geological trench across the wadi bed, and in clearing wind-blown sand from the interior of Site 345). Reis Ayad is a Bedouin chieftain with an in-depth knowledge of El-Markha Plain and areas to the east; he was able to point out other archaeological sites and points of interest in El-Markha Plain.
Reis Ayad and ceramicist R. Hummel with local camel (Photo: S. Parcak). |
South Sinai
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| Aside from our archaeological focus, we had various opportunities to
interact with Reis Ayad, the Bedouin and Egyptian population within the region, and the
officials of the SCA inspectorate at Abu Zenima, all of whom were extremely supportive and
hospitable. On several occasions, after the workday had finished, Reis Ayad invited us to
his home in the adjacent village of Kilo Tisa to enjoy a traditional Bedouin meal and
hospitality. Our inspector and fellow archaeologist, Mustafa Rezk, also provided us with
much kindness, and invaluable and highly competent assistance in diverse matters.
Enjoying the hospitality of Reis Ayad with Ahmed (driver), Ayad’s brother, and Mustafa Rezk (SCA inspector) (Photo: S. Parcak). |
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Moon Beach Hotel:The long and hot work days were offset by returning to Moon Beach Hotel, which provided excellent accommodations and meals. Special thanks to both the Cairo manager, Richard Soulban and the local manager, Said, who furnished a substantial discount and invaluable and varied assistance to the project.
View of Moon Beach Hotel, north of Hammam Pharaon (Photo: G. Mumford).
Ceramicist R. Hummel relaxing in Red Sea at Moon Beach (Photo: S. Parcak) |
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Lobby and dining hall of Moon Beach Hotel (Photo: G. Mumford) |
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