News — Egyptology

The Pyramids of Giza, located on the Giza Plateau just outside Cairo, Egypt, are among the most iconic and well-known ancient structures in the world. These pyramids are a testament to the incredible engineering and architectural achievements of ancient Egypt. Driving to the pyramids from Cairo is extraordinary because you go down a busy street and suddenly the pyramids appear beside the roadway.  The Giza complex includes three main pyramids: the Great Pyramid of Giza (Pyramid of Khufu or Pyramid of Cheops), the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure.   The Great Pyramid of Giza was built for...

In Egyptian mythology, Seth, also known as Set, is an ancient deity representing chaos, disorder, and the desert. He was associated with storms, violence, and natural disasters that could disrupt the harmony of the world. Seth was often depicted with the head of an unidentified animal, possibly a composite creature with features of an aardvark or jackal. He was sometimes shown as a muscular man with the head of the animal on top of an elongated snout.   One of the most significant myths involving Seth is his ongoing feud with his brother Osiris. According to the myth, Seth murdered Osiris...

Ushabtis, also known as shabtis or shawabtis, are ancient Egyptian funerary figurines that were placed in tombs to serve the deceased in the afterlife. These figurines were part of the funerary practices and beliefs in ancient Egypt, which included preparing the deceased for the journey to the afterlife. The primary purpose of ushabtis was to perform labor on behalf of the deceased in the afterlife, specifically in the Field of Reeds, an idealized version of Egypt where the deceased would live eternally. It was believed that in the afterlife the deceased would continue their duties as they did in life...

The Valley of the Kings is a famous archaeological site located on the western bank of the Nile River in Luxor, Egypt. It is renowned for being the burial place of many ancient Egyptian pharaohs, including some of the most well-known rulers from the New Kingdom period (approximately 1550–1070 BCE).  The valley's location was carefully chosen by the ancient Egyptians due to its secluded nature, which provided a level of protection for the tombs against tomb robbers and natural elements. The valley contains around 63 known tombs, though the exact number might vary as new discoveries are made over time....

Egyptian Bes is a deity from ancient Egyptian mythology. He is often depicted as a dwarf with a lion-like mane, sticking out his tongue, and displaying other grotesque features. Bes was considered a protector deity, associated with households, childbirth, and fertility.  Bes was known for his role in warding off evil spirits and protecting people from harm. He was believed to be particularly effective against malevolent forces that might harm children or mothers during childbirth. Many amulets and talismans featuring Bes were used by ancient Egyptians as protective charms. Bes was also associated with music, dance, and joy. He was...