The Serapeum of Saqqara is an ancient Egyptian burial site for sacred bulls, located northwest of the famous Step Pyramid of Djoser. It is part of the larger necropolis of Saqqara, near Memphis. The site features large sarcophagi made from granite and basalt, believed to have housed the mummified remains of the Apis bulls, which were worshipped as manifestations of the god Ptah. The Serapeum is a testament to the religious significance of these animals in ancient Egyptian culture and provides insight into their burial rituals.
Ancient Civilizations
All Ancient Civilizations, Cultures and People
The Tomb of Nefertari
The Tomb of Nefertari, located in the Valley of the Queens in Egypt, is an ancient burial site of one of the most celebrated queens of ancient Egypt, Nefertari, the first of the Great Royal Wives of Ramesses the Great. Known for its stunning wall paintings and intricate artistry, the tomb is considered one of the most beautiful in all of Egypt. Discovered in 1904, it has since provided immense insight into Egyptian art and culture during the 19th Dynasty.
The Tomb of Rekhmire Depictions
The tomb of Rekhmire, TT100, located at Thebes, offers an unparalleled window into the life and responsibilities of a Vizier (a high-ranking political advisor or minister) in ancient Egypt. Rekhmire, serving under Thutmose III and Amenhotep II, hailed from a lineage of influential officials. His tomb, while never intended as a burial site, serves as a chapel showcasing the extensive duties of a Vizier and the intricate details of ancient Egyptian craftsmanship, particularly through its vivid depictions of artisans at work, using a variety of tools and technology, some of which advanced for the time.
The Tomb of Sennefer (Tomb of the Vineyards)
The funerary complex of Sennefer, known as TT96, offers a fascinating window into the life and afterlife beliefs of the ancient Egyptian elite during the 18th Dynasty, specifically around the reign of Amenhotep II (approximately 1439 – 1413 BC). Sennefer, who held the prestigious title of Mayor of Thebes, was a prominent figure in the southern city, and his tomb, located on the south face of the hill of Sheikh abd el-Gournah, is a testament to his status and the artistic achievements of the period.
Tomb of Senenmut
The Tomb of Senenmut, located in Luxor, Egypt, is an ancient architectural marvel. It belongs to Senenmut, an influential figure during the reign of Queen Hatshepsut in the 18th Dynasty. This tomb is unique for its intricate astronomical ceiling and the mystery surrounding Senenmut’s life and death. It stands as a testament to the architectural prowess and the complex religious beliefs of ancient Egyptians.
Kom Ombo Temple
The Kom Ombo Temple stands as an architectural marvel on the banks of the Nile River. This double temple, unique in its dual dedication, honors two sets of gods. The southern half venerates the crocodile god Sobek, while the northern half is dedicated to the falcon god Haroeris, also known as Horus the Elder. With its construction dating back to the Ptolemaic dynasty, the temple offers a glimpse into the religious and cultural practices of ancient Egypt. Its walls are adorned with intricate carvings and hieroglyphs that tell tales of mythology and daily life, while also providing insights into medical knowledge and practices of the time.