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Memphis


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Memphis was the capital city of Egypt for most of the Pharaonic period. It is said to have been founded by the 1st-Dynasty ruler Menes (Aha). A more ancient name for the city of Memphis was Ineb-hedj (White Walls) which probably referred to the appearance of the fortified palace of one of the earliest kings. Memphis itself has largely vanished. The remains of early Memphis lie beneath thick deposits of Nile alluvium and much is below the water table. Its former glory is now apparent only in its 'City of the Dead', the necropolis, or cemetery, of Saqqara.

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Colossus of Rameses IIThe fallen Colossus of Ramesses II is one of the most commonly visited features of the Memphis site.

Colossus of Rameses IIThe right side of the fallen Colossus of Ramesses II.

Alabaster SphinxThe 18th century BCE Alabaster Sphinx left exactly over the place from which it was excavated.

Statue at MemphisA Statue of Ramesses II (?) wearing the White Crown of Upper Egypt.


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© All pictures are Copyright 1998 - 2001 Grisel Gonzalez

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