The History of Egypt

Egypt is one country with a very rich culture and for a long time has been a center of tourism. It is one of the most developed countries in Africa and because of the great development is has had, and the fact that it includes contemporary styles with the ancient styles in everything from architecture to food makes it even more beautiful a place to visit. The richness and vast treasures associated with the history of Egypt makes it intriguing.

Egypt is best known for its pyramids that date back to thousands of years. These have never ceased to amaze mankind, first because of the unique way in which they were built and also because of their beauty and secondly because however hard man tries and with the technological developments, man has never been able to make a pyramid alike to the pyramids of Egypt and as such they have been named a world wonder. Some of the most known pyramids include the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Pyramid of Pharaoh Khufu, and the pyramid of Doser that is believed to be the oldest pyramid ever discovered and was built by the Pharaohs of the Third Dynasty. The main difference between the earliest pyramids and the others is that while the earliest have steps, the others are smooth and have well cut surfaces. The shape of the pyramids was believed to resemble a deity, Ptah. The pyramids were used for burying the pharaohs and since they were buried with lots of treasures, they were a store for lots of treasures.

As early as 5000 BC, Egyptians were well known for their art. This however became more prominent from 3000 BC. Then the artists were respected and important members of the society because of the importance of pictorial depiction in religious rites and the embellishment of tombs of the pharaohs and noble men. Use of stereotypes and symbolism was a common occurrence among the artists to maintain the likeness. The items used for painting and for the art work included papyrus, rock surfaces and earth, mineral dyes, wood and weed brushes.

The religious practices of the Egyptians started from ancient times. The cultural and social lives of the Ancient Egyptians seemed to be centered on their religion. They had a polytheist religion worshipping a number of gods and goddesses and also natural forces. They also worshipped certain animals and had their gods and goddesses’ endorsed animal heads such as the lion headed war god Maahes. The pharaohs were believed to be descendants of the gods. The Egyptians strongly believed in life after death and therefore buried their pharaohs with jewels and even his servants to ensure that he became comfortable in his afterlife.

Egypt is believed to have been one of the earliest countries in the world to adopt civilization and as such the Egyptian literature is one of the oldest. This early literature was written on papyrus and on temples, pyramid walls and tombs.

The music in ancient Egypt was diverse and viewed as an integral part of society. The ancient instruments used include drums, castanets, sistrums cymbals, kinnors, harps and other stringed instruments. The use of musical instruments became especially important during the festival.

By Raphael M.

Sources: Mapsofworld

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