An introduction to Egypt. The video below explains how the kingdom of Egypt started. Its economy and more.
Egypt – The Old Kingdom #
Introduction:
The Old Kingdom of Egypt, often known as the “Age of the Pyramids,” was a period of great achievement and stability. It lasted from around 2686 to 2181 BCE. This era is most famous for the construction of the pyramids, which were monumental tombs for the pharaohs. The pharaohs were powerful leaders who controlled all aspects of Egyptian life, including religion, government, and construction projects.
Period Covered by the old Kingdom:
- The Old Kingdom lasted from around 2686 to 2181 BCE, spanning the Third to the Sixth Dynasties of Egypt.
Characteristics of the old Kingdom:
- Strong Pharaohs: Pharaohs were not just kings but were also considered gods on earth. They had absolute power and were responsible for the prosperity and stability of the kingdom.
- Building Projects: The Old Kingdom is renowned for its architectural advancements, including the construction of temples, palaces, and especially pyramids. These structures were built using advanced engineering techniques and large labor forces.
Pyramids & Pharaohs of This Period #
Why were the Pyramids built?
- Monuments: Pyramids served as monuments to honor and remember the pharaohs. They symbolized the pharaoh’s power and divine status.
- Burial Places: Pyramids were designed as grand tombs to ensure the pharaohs’ journey to the afterlife. They were filled with treasures, food, and goods that the pharaohs would need in the next world.
Materials use to build the pyramids:
- Stone: Pyramids were constructed from massive stone blocks. Limestone was commonly used for the outer casing, while granite was used for interior structures.
Famous Pyramids:
Here are 2 pyramids that were built during the old kingdom
- The First Pyramid:
- Pharaoh Djoser: The founder of the Third Dynasty and one of the earliest pharaohs to construct a pyramid.
- Location: Built at Saqqara, a vast burial ground near the capital, Memphis.
- Design: Known as the Step Pyramid, it has stepped sides and is surrounded by other tombs and structures.
- Height: Approximately 75 meters (246 feet) tall.
- The Great Pyramid:
- Pharaoh Khufu: Constructed during the Fourth Dynasty, Khufu’s pyramid is the most famous and largest of all Egyptian pyramids.
- Location: Built at Giza, alongside two other large pyramids and the Sphinx.
- Construction: The pyramid was built by around 4,000 workers, using huge limestone blocks.
- Size: The Great Pyramid stands about 165 meters (541 feet) high, with a base covering about 500 meters (1,640 feet) around.
- Stones: Approximately 2.3 million stone blocks were used, each weighing several tons.
Construction Details:
- Workers: The pyramids were built by thousands of skilled workers, including architects, engineers, and laborers. They worked in teams and were well-organized.
- Time: The construction of a pyramid could take many years, with workers laboring for several months each year. The Great Pyramid of Khufu, for example, took about 20 years to complete.
Beliefs About Pharaohs After Death:
- Sun God: The ancient Egyptians believed that when a pharaoh died, they were taken by the sun god, Ra, in a celestial boat. This journey required the pharaohs to be buried in high places to catch the sun’s rays.
- Servants in the Afterlife: Pharaohs were often buried with items and servants they would need in the afterlife. Some servants were even sacrificed to accompany the pharaoh, ensuring they had assistance in the next world.
Conclusion:
The Old Kingdom was a remarkable period in ancient Egyptian history, marked by the construction of the iconic pyramids and the powerful rule of the pharaohs. These monumental structures continue to awe and inspire people around the world, symbolizing the grandeur and sophistication of ancient Egyptian civilization.
