Ancient Civilizations: Ethiopia

LAND OF PUNT

The Red Sea, and Gulf of Aden coast (believed to be that of Africa) was one of the earliest maritime trade routes. To the Egyptians, and Ptolemys this land was know as the “Land of Punt (Incense)” or “Gods Land of Punt”. It was especially important for the goods that it offered to Egypt and much of the ancient world. Most of these exports came from the the interior of present day Ethiopia, and the coastal areas of Somalia. Much of the trade occurred along the Red Sea Coast, and the Gulf of Aden.

The Puntites traded myrrh, myrrh trees, ostrich feathers, gold, ivory, and various animal skins. In return the Egyptians supplied the Puntites with hatchets, daggers, necklaces, and other goods that were in great demand. At first these goods were taken to Egypt by overland routes, but these were enduring journeys and traders faced costly taxes. By 2500 B.C a new maritime trade was established after the invention of a newer much more efficient ship. The Egyptians began arriving to the Puntite coast with their 60 oar ships and were now more capable in their trade.

The earliest contacts between Egypt and Punt date back as far as 3407-2888 B.C, or the First and Second Dynasties. According to Pharoanic records the Egyptians already possessed myrrh, the most important product of the Horn Africa region. The fragrant gums, and incense obtained were essential to various religious and traditional practices of ancient Egypt.  1     2     3