The main architectural elements of Egyptian structures used for trade and commerce were:
1. Storehouses: These were large structures built specifically to store and protect goods for trade. They were typically rectangular or square in shape and had thick walls made of mud bricks or stone to provide insulation and security.
2. Marketplaces: Egyptian marketplaces were open-air spaces where goods were bought and sold. They often consisted of rows of shops or stalls where merchants displayed their products. Some marketplaces had covered areas to protect traders and customers from the sun or inclement weather.
3. Warehouses: Warehouses were used to store goods temporarily before they were transported or sold. They were typically located near ports or trade routes for easy access. Warehouses had large doors for loading and unloading, as well as storage rooms with shelves or compartments to organize the goods.
4. Wharfs: As Egypt had access to the Nile River and the Red Sea, wharfs were built along these waterways to facilitate trade. Wharfs were raised platforms or docks where boats and ships could anchor and goods could be loaded or unloaded. They often had ramps or staircases for easy access.
5. Arches and Columns: Arches and columns were commonly used in Egyptian trade structures to provide structural support and aesthetic appeal. These architectural elements were often constructed using sandstone or granite and adorned with decorations and hieroglyphic inscriptions.
6. Pavements: Trade routes and marketplaces in Egypt were often paved with stone or compacted earth to provide smooth surfaces for transportation and foot traffic. These pavements made it easier for carts, animals, and pedestrians to move goods from one place to another.
7. Depots: Depots were intermediate distribution centers where goods were stored temporarily during trade transactions. They were generally located along trade routes and were designed to provide security and convenience for merchants. Depots often had courtyards and central halls for storage and display purposes.
These various architectural elements played a significant role in facilitating trade and commerce in ancient Egypt by providing infrastructure for storage, transportation, and market activities.
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