Situated near Cairo in Egypt, the Saqqara Necropolis is an eminent archaeological site sprinkled with a myriad of ancient Egyptian monuments. From the Old Kingdom and Middle Kingdom eras, this necropolis offers various tombs as well as a vast selection of temples and shrines from the New Kingdom period. Prominent among these are The Step Pyramid of Djoser; Serapeum; Tomb of Ti; Teti Pyramid Complex; Mastaba of Mereruka; Tomb Of Horemheb’, and Pyramid Of Unas’ just to name a few!
This remarkable place allows visitors to take an amazing journey back in time – making it worth paying a visit for everyone!
The less popular Pyramids
The pyramids of Giza are the most famous in Egypt and indeed the world, but there is much to be said for the pyramids of Saqqara Necropolis. While the Giza Pyramids were built during the Fourth Dynasty (2613–2494BCE) by Pharaohs Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure, the Saqqara Necropolis pyramids were built in the Third Dynasty (2686–2613BCE) by Pharaohs Djoser and Unas. The Step Pyramid of Djoser is thought to be the first pyramid ever constructed and served as a template for later pyramids at Giza and Dahshur.
Additionally, the Saqqara Necropolis pyramids contain many more tombs and structures than the Giza Pyramids, such as the Serapeum, Tomb of Ti, Tomb of Ankhmahor, and Pyramid of Userkaf. While both sites are incredibly impressive in their own right, Saqqara offers a unique insight into early pyramid construction and the history of the time.
Regardless of which site you choose to visit, both the Giza and Saqqara Necropolis are spectacular attractions that will leave a lasting impression on any visitor. It is an experience that should not be missed!
The top sights to visit in Saqqara Necropolis
1. Step Pyramid of Djoser: Built in the third dynasty by Imhotep, this is a six-stepped pyramid that was the first to be built out of large stone blocks. This pyramid served as a template for later constructions at Giza and Dahshur.
2. Serapeum: This structure is located at the end of a long processional avenue and contains 30-40 underground burial chambers that were built to house mummified Apis Bulls.
3. Tomb of Ti: This is considered one of the most beautiful tombs in Saqqara, due to its unique layout and elaborate decorations. The tomb was constructed for Ti, the chief treasurer of Pharaoh Seti I, and is thought to have served as a prototype for later tombs.
4. Teti Pyramid Complex: Located at the northern end of Saqqara Necropolis, this complex was built around the pyramid of Pharaoh Teti and contains a variety of other structures such as shrines and courtyards.
5. Mastaba of Mereruka: This is the largest and most elaborate tomb in Saqqara and was built for Mereruka, one of Pharaoh Teti’s viziers. The tomb contains 32 rooms decorated with wall paintings depicting daily life at the time.
6. Tomb of Horemheb: One of the last monuments to be built in Saqqara, this tomb is thought to have been built for Horemheb, a military leader who rose to power after Pharaoh Tutankhamun’s death. The tomb contains a large number of well-preserved inscriptions and wall paintings that document his many achievements.
7. Pyramid of Unas: This pyramid is the largest in Saqqara and was built for Pharaoh Unas, who reigned during the fifth dynasty. It is believed to have been the first pyramid to contain texts from the Pyramid Texts, which are important religious texts.
8. Tomb of Ankhmahor: This is one of the most intricately decorated tombs in Saqqara and was built for Ankhmahor, a royal doctor under Pharaoh Teti. The tomb contains many colorful hieroglyphs and wall paintings that depict scenes from Ankhmahor’s life.
9. Pyramid of Userkaf: This pyramid is the oldest in Saqqara and was built during the fifth dynasty by Pharaoh Userkaf. It has an unusual design with seven steps leading up to a flat top.
10. Tomb of Kagemni: This tomb was built for Kagemni, an important official under Pharaoh Teti, and contains well-preserved inscriptions and colorful wall paintings. The tomb is thought to have served as an important model for later tombs in Saqqara.
Visiting the Saqqara area can be a great way to experience a piece of ancient Egyptian history. The tombs, pyramids, and other structures have been preserved over the years and offer an insight into life during Ancient Egypt. It also provides an opportunity to explore the diverse culture and architecture of this period.
Furthermore, Saqqara is home to several significant monuments, such as the Step Pyramid of Djoser and the Tomb of Ti. These buildings are thought to have been influential in the development of later pyramids at Giza and Dahshur. By exploring Saqqara, visitors can learn more about these important structures and gain a better understanding of their importance for Ancient Egypt.
Saqqara is also home to many beautiful wall paintings and hieroglyphs that have survived over time. These provide a glimpse into the lives of ancient Egyptians, as well as an insight into their beliefs and customs.
Finally, Saqqara is a great place to take beautiful photographs or simply appreciate the beauty of the area. With its mixture of ancient and modern elements, it is an interesting place to explore.
Overall, a visit to Saqqara offers visitors the chance to experience a unique piece of history firsthand and gain a better understanding of Ancient Egypt. It is an opportunity that should not be missed!
