Hello everyone!
After reading Foggy’s posts on the Giza Pyramids, I felt inspired to tell you about Egypt’s other historical sites. Because, yes, there is more to see than just the pyramids of Khufu, Menkaure, and Khafre! I was lucky enough to have a close friend who did part of her archaeology studies on Egyptian excavation sites, so I was able to join her and soak in the wonders of ancient Egypt.
Must-sees in Cairo and Giza
Of course, I visited the pyramids and the Sphinx of Giza, and I can confirm it’s well worth it. Regarding going inside the pyramids, I’ll admit that some might be disappointed. You won’t see hieroglyphics there, let alone treasures... Only the ingenuity of the builders might move you, along with the thrill of having explored the interior of the last remaining wonder of the ancient world.
Likewise, the Cairo Museum is an absolute must, and it would be a real shame not to dedicate a full day to it.
The Saqqara Archaeological Site
But for those who have the chance, don’t hesitate to hit the road from Cairo and head to Saqqara near Memphis, about 30 kilometers south of the Egyptian capital.
This necropolis was designed as the first eternal resting place for the pharaohs of the Old Kingdom. It is here that you will find, in addition to the mastabas that have helped us decode daily life thanks to their beautifully preserved painted scenes, the very first Egyptian pyramid. Built by the famous architect Imhotep for Pharaoh Djoser, it dates back to 2600 BC and, like its neighbors in Cairo, it’s still standing! This pyramid is different from those in Giza because it is stepped. In fact, that’s what everyone calls it: "the Step Pyramid of Djoser."
The necropolis also housed the tombs of the sacred Apis bulls, which were also entirely mummified.
At the entrance to the site, you’ll start by seeing the Pyramid of Unas and its funerary complex. Toward the south side of the complex, you’ll also find the Pyramid of Pepi. Don’t be put off by the exterior, which might make you think everything has collapsed: inside, the richness of the drawings, inscriptions, and scenes is immense. Pepi I gave his name, in its Greek form, to the surrounding area and the nearby city: Memphis.
Still within this complex, you can spot the ruins of the pyramid of Djedkare Isesi, who chose to establish his final resting place on the Saqqara plateau, breaking with the tradition that should have seen him settle in Abusir.
Around Saqqara, Abusir, and Memphis
Speaking of Abusir (or Abu Sir), I suggest you make a quick detour there from Saqqara; it’s only a few minutes' drive between the two historical sites. Abusir is also worth a look if you’re a history buff.
After this short detour to the north, I recommend continuing your route eastward toward Memphis.
There, you can visit some temple ruins, the most famous being those of Ramesses II, the Great Temple of Ptah, and the Serapeum. Memphis is essentially an open-air museum where you can wander around and imagine, provided you have a bit of background knowledge, what the lives of the pharaohs were like.
Luxor and Karnak
But beyond Cairo and Memphis, other destinations are worth the trip. You’ll need to plan ahead, as there aren’t many tour operators, to my knowledge, that combine Cairo and Luxor, for example. It’s usually one or the other. The fastest way is likely to fly between the Cairo and Luxor airports (around €150 with Egyptair). There are also Nile cruises available, but that’s a different kind of trip :)
Luxor is the ancient Thebes. In my opinion, it’s the city that best allows you to imagine and understand how the ancient Egyptians lived. Everyone knows the walls, the statues, and the history of the obelisks, but once you’re at the complex, you feel a real whirlwind of emotions.
Luxor was connected to Karnak, particularly the temples dedicated to Amun. The Karnak temple has been the subject of some wonderful 3D reconstructions. I was blown away by this visit and highly recommend everyone go. You can rent small boats on-site to see the temples from the Nile: don’t miss out, it’s simply magical!!
Finally, further south on the Nile, those who can should also visit Elephantine Island, located right near Aswan, the seat of Nubian culture (the museum is a must-see).
A thought for Alexandria
On the opposite side, on the northern Egyptian coast, I’d like to say a few words about Alexandria (Alexandra... aha... sorry...). Given the distances, it’s a bit complicated to combine Cairo, Memphis, Luxor, Aswan, and Alexandria in one trip. Nevertheless, if you have the time and the budget, why not take a trip to Alexandria before catching your return flight from Cairo, for example.
It offers a different, gentler pace of life than Cairo. The city is rich in a turbulent history for which you’ll need a guide to travel through time and the various historical periods.
In short, you’ll quickly realize: Egypt isn’t just Cairo, and it takes more than one trip to see it all!
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