The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, located in Alexandria, Egypt, is a historical archaeological site considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages. The necropolis consists of a series of Alexandrian tombs, statues, and archaeological objects of the Pharaonic funeral cult with Hellenistic and early Imperial Roman influences. The catacombs were likely used as a burial site from the 2nd century to the 4th century AD. The name ‘Kom el Shoqafa’ translates to ‘Mound of Shards’, referring to the heaps of pottery and terra cotta that were left by visitors who would eat food during their visit, then break their plates, as it was considered unlucky to take them back home.
Ancient Civilizations
All Ancient Civilizations, Cultures and People
Pyramid of Amenemhet I
The Pyramid of Amenemhet I, also known as the “Pyramid of Lights,” is a historical monument located in the southern part of the Dahshur necropolis in Cairo, Egypt. Constructed during the 12th Dynasty by Pharaoh Amenemhet I, this pyramid stands as a testament to the architectural prowess and cultural richness of Ancient Egypt. Unlike the pyramids built during the 4th Dynasty, the Pyramid of Amenemhet I was constructed using a core of mudbricks and covered with a casing of limestone, a technique that was popular during the Middle Kingdom. This pyramid is particularly notable for its unique burial chamber design and the complex of surrounding structures.
Semi-Subterranean Temple
The Semi-Subterranean Temple is a significant historical and archaeological site located in Tiwanaku, Bolivia. The temple, also known as the Templete Semi-subterráneo, is a part of the larger Tiwanaku archaeological complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This unique temple is semi-underground, built into the earth with a rectangular, sunken courtyard. The temple is known for its carved stone faces and heads, which are embedded in the walls of the courtyard. These carvings represent a variety of human and mythological beings, reflecting the diverse cultures and beliefs of the ancient civilizations that inhabited this region.
The Midas Monument
The Midas Monument, also known as the Midas City, is a significant historical site located in modern-day Turkey. This ancient site, believed to have been inhabited since the 8th century BC, is named after the legendary King Midas of Phrygia. The monument is most famous for its large, carved façade, often referred to as the “Midas Monument” or “Midas Tomb,” despite there being no evidence that Midas was buried there. The monument is a testament to the Phrygian civilization’s architectural prowess and is a valuable source of information about their culture and mythology.
Surang Tila Temple
The Surang Tila Temple, a gem in the heart of Chhattisgarh, India, boasts an impressive history and remarkable architecture. The temple, dating back to the 7th century AD, survived a massive earthquake in the 11th century. Its unique design, featuring a pyramid-like structure with five levels, is a testament to the advanced architectural prowess of the time. Today, the temple stands as a symbol of resilience and an embodiment of India’s rich cultural heritage. The Surang Tila Temple, nestled in the ancient city of Sirpur, is a marvel of the past. Sirpur, once a bustling trade center, was a hub of cultural and religious activities. The temple’s construction dates back to the 7th century AD, during the reign of the Sarabhpuriya kings.
Beni Hasan Tombs
The Beni Hasan Tombs are a collection of ancient Egyptian burial sites located near the modern village of Beni Hasan in Middle Egypt. These tombs, dating back to the Middle Kingdom period (2055-1650 BC), are renowned for their well-preserved wall paintings and inscriptions that provide a wealth of information about ancient Egyptian society, religion, and burial practices. The tombs are cut into the high limestone cliffs on the eastern bank of the Nile and were used as the final resting place for the provincial governors, their families, and other high-ranking officials of the Oryx nome, a region of ancient Egypt.