Sakkara or saqqara

 Ṣaqqārah, an ancient Egyptian archaeological site located near the Nile Delta. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Location and Significance:

   • Ṣaqqārah is situated in the Lower Kingdom, approximately 15 miles (24 km) southwest of Cairo, Egypt.
   • It served as the necropolis (burial ground) for the ancient capital of Memphis.
   • Memphis was one of the most important cities in ancient Egyptian history.

2. Step Pyramid of Djoser:

   • The Step Pyramid, designed by the architect Imhotep, stands at Ṣaqqārah.
   • It dates back to the 3rd dynasty (around 2686–2667 BCE).
   • This pyramid represents a significant innovation in burial structures, featuring six stages.
   • Surrounding the pyramid is a vast complex of halls and courts, constructed from fine limestone.

3. Royal Burials:

   • Kings and noblemen from the 1st and 2nd dynasties (around 3040–2686 BCE) were buried here.
   • Notably, the pyramids of important kings from the Old Kingdom Fifth and Sixth Dynasties (around 2494–2181 BCE) are also located in Ṣaqqārah.
   • The pyramid of Unas (also known as Wenis) features the oldest pyramid burial chamber decorated with texts known as the Pyramid Texts. These texts aimed to protect the deceased king on their journey to the afterlife.

4. Noblemen Tombs:

   • Ṣaqqārah is rich in noblemen’s tombs from various periods.
   • These tombs are adorned with scenes and texts of exceptional beauty and craftsmanship.
   • They span the First Intermediate Period, Middle Kingdom, and New Kingdom.

5. The Serapeum:

   • The Serapeum consists of underground galleries where the Apis Bulls were buried.
   • The Apis Bull was considered an incarnation of Ptah, a significant god of Memphis.
   • Only one Apis Bull existed at a time, and upon its death, it received full honors until a successor was found.

6. Coptic Era Remains:

   • The remains of the Monastery of Apa Jeremiah, dating until the eighth century AD, provide insight into Egypt’s Coptic era.
   • Today, Ṣaqqārah houses the Imhotep Museum, displaying artifacts spanning its immense chronological span.

7. Visiting Ṣaqqārah:

   • Opening hours: 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (Wednesday to Monday).
   • Tickets cover various areas, including the Step Pyramid, Noble Tombs, and the Serapeum.

Remember, Ṣaqqārah is like an open-air museum, preserving the rich history of ancient Egypt. 🌟