A closer look

Ancient Egyptian border control made modern fortresses look like child's play. The fortress of Buhen in Nubia was a massive, mud-brick death trap designed strictly to protect Egypt's gold supply and hoard massive amounts of grain. Featuring arrow slits angled for maximum crossfire, rolling drawbridges, and moats, it was a terrifyingly efficient logistics hub where garrisoned troops could survive years-long sieges while suffocating local Nubian rebellions.