Ancient Civilizations: Ethiopia

LAND OF PUNT

Hatsheputs enterprise was the best recorded event of the Puntite-Egyptian trade. Even though there was an emphasis on the Egyptian side the Puntites soon began their own voyages. One such voyage was documented and occurred some time around 1447-1420 B.C. In a tomb in Thebes, the Puntite chiefs are shown with their sailing vessels, and the a series of scenes depict the details of their trade.

Trade between Egypt and Punt continued for many centuries, the last recorded expedition was sent by Ramses III. In time other empires began frequenting the coast.

Over the centuries separate kingdoms and mercantile towns were established in this area. This region was also part of the kingdom of Axum, the land of Berbera, and the land of the Afars. The most prominent coastal cities were Adulis, Berbeira, and Zeila. 1     2     3