Egyptian Civilization Summary
1. Definition and History of the Egyptian Civilization
Definition: The Egyptian civilization is an ancient civilization in North Africa, known
for its remarkable achievements in various fields (architecture, writing, religion).
History: It lasted for over 3,000 years, from the unification of Egypt around 3100 BC
until its conquest by Alexander the Great in 332 BC.
Kingdoms: Ancient Egypt was divided into three major periods: the Old Kingdom, the
Middle Kingdom, and the New Kingdom.
Importance of the Nile: The Nile River was the main source of life. It provided water,
transportation, and fertile lands for agriculture, which allowed the civilization to
flourish.
Birth of the Civilization: The unification of Egypt under King Narmer (around 3100
BC) marks the beginning of Egyptian civilization.
Hieroglyphic Writing: The Egyptian writing system, made up of pictograms and
symbols, was used to record historical and religious events, mainly on temples and
tombs.
2. Religion and Society in Ancient Egypt
Religion: The Egyptian religion was polytheistic, worshipping many gods. Every aspect
of life was controlled by these deities.
Gods: Among the main gods were:
o Ra (the sun god),
o Isis (goddess of magic and motherhood),
o Osiris (god of the dead),
o Anubis (god of embalming).
Social Hierarchy: Egyptian society was hierarchical, with the pharaoh at the top,
followed by priests, officials, artisans, peasants, and slaves.
Egyptian Cosmos: The Egyptian cosmos was represented by four main principles:
1. Justice (Ma’at),
2. Cosmic order,
3. Harmony,
4. Regeneration.
3. Major Periods of Pharaonic Civilization
Old Kingdom (2700-2050 BC): A period of great stability when Egypt consolidated
power. Famous pharaohs like Khufu built the Great Pyramid of Giza.
Middle Kingdom (2050-1600 BC): A period of renewal and prosperity, marked by
administrative reforms and military conquests.
New Kingdom (1551-1075 BC): The peak of Egyptian power, with famous pharaohs
like Ramses II and Tutankhamun. This period saw the construction of monumental
temples.
4. Urban Planning in Ancient Egyptian Cities
Urban Organization: Egyptian cities were organized around temples and palaces.
They were often built near the Nile for irrigation and transport.
Reasons for Location: The proximity of the Nile was essential for agriculture and
trade. Cities were often protected by walls.
Characteristics of Urbanism: Streets were narrow, houses were made of mud bricks,
and important monuments were built of stone.
Construction Materials: Common materials included:
o Stone (granite, limestone),
o Wood,
o Clay,
o Mud bricks.
5. Monumental Architecture
Funerary Architecture: Funerary monuments, like pyramids, were built to ensure the
pharaohs' afterlife.
Evolution of Funerary Structures (in 5 stages):
1. Mastabas: Simple rectangular tombs (e.g., Djoser’s Mastaba).
2. Step Pyramids: The first pyramids (e.g., Djoser’s Step Pyramid).
3. Smooth Pyramids: The classical pyramids (e.g., Khufu’s Pyramid).
4. Valley of the Queens’ Pyramids: Royal tombs from the New Kingdom.
5. Hypogea: Underground tombs with decorations and inscriptions.
Pyramid of Giza Plan: The pyramids were built with a precise geometric plan, with
internal corridors to protect the pharaoh.
Pyramid Features: Pyramids symbolized the pharaoh's divinity and his ascent to the
gods.
Hypogea: These were underground tombs where the pharaohs' bodies were placed
with their belongings.
6. Temple Architecture
Temple Types: Temples were dedicated to gods and the pharaoh. There were
funerary temples and cult temples.
Architectural Features: Each temple had specific elements, such as:
o Dromos (sphinx-lined avenue),
o Pylon (monumental gate),
o Court (open space),
o Hypostyle Hall (hall with columns),
o Sanctuary (sacred space).
Funerary Temples:
o Old Kingdom: Simple stone temples.
o New Kingdom: More elaborate temples with large courtyards and colonnades.
7. The Royal Palace
Description and Explanation: The royal palace was the center of power, containing
private apartments, reception halls, and gardens.
Egyptian Orders:
o Tectonic Orders: Solid foundations to support buildings.
o Organic Orders: Nature-inspired designs, such as lotus and papyrus-shaped
columns.
