The Nubian Mercenaries of Gebelein during the First Intermediate Period in Light of Recent Field Research

The Gebelein Archaeological Project and study of archaeological sites in its vicinity in recent years has resulted in the acquisition of new data concerning the topography of the region. This report presents a review of the Nubian presence in the region during the First Intermediate Period and proposes an explanation to their origin as well their role in the area in light of new research. It seems that Ankhtifi, ruler of the three southernmost nomes at that time, was responsible for the settlement of Nubian mercenaries in the region in order to utilize their military skills.