Travel Guide The City of Memphis

The ancient city of Memphis - Oldest Capital of ancient Egypt
20 / January / 2022

About Memphis

Memphis is actually the first capital established for unified Egypt. It was the capital of Lower Egypt and then when King Menes unified ancient Egypt more than 5000 years ago, he declared Memphis as the new capital of the country. Today, however, almost all exhibits in the open-air museum belong to the period of the New Kingdom, thousands of years after Menes.

The History and Establishment of Memphis

There are actually several historical theories in fact about Menes or Narmar. Some scientists assert that that Menes and Narmar was the same person. Others claim that Menes was the one who carried out most of the missions. In all cases, a great king conquered Lower Egypt and took control of the Nile Delta. Afterwards, he established Memphis in the 31st century BC.

Menes chose the location of Memphis due to its strategic location between the two kingdoms; the kingdom of Lower Egypt or Northern Egypt and the kingdom of upper or southern Egypt. However, the golden age of Memphis started in the reign of the fourth dynasty, during the ruling period of King Djoser.

The Location of Memphis

Memphis is situated around 20 meters to the South West of Cairo. It is actually located near many other interesting historical sites and Tourists prefer to visit Memphis during their Egypt tours, like Saqqara and Dahshur. This exact place marks the middle point between Upper and Lower Egypt.

Interesting places and things to do in Memphis

The open-air museum of Memphis today hosts quite an interesting collection that date to the New Kingdom, more than 2000 years ago, the most amazing is the huge impressive colossi of Ramses II, one of the largest statues in the world. This is in addition to the famous alabaster sphinx, several statues of goddess Hathour, and many other displays.

Don't miss exploring the fascinating Sphinx and the Giza pyramids, which are considered as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, on your Cairo Day tour. Also, be sure you visit Memphis with Deluxe Tours!

FAQ

Cultural, historical, adventure, and custom customized trips are just a few of the tours that Deluxe trips offer in Egypt and Jordan.

The Dead Sea, Petra in Jordan, the Pyramids of Giza, Luxor's historic temples, and many other famous sites can be expected to be explored with Deluxe Tours.
 

offer a hassle-free holiday, Deluxe Tours' packages generally include lodging, transport, meals, guided tours with experienced local experts, and entry fees to attractions.
 

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer the finest weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities, making those months the best times to visit Egypt and Jordan.
 

These two countries are close by, only a 1.5-hour flight apart, and when combined, offer a variety of distinctive experiences. We advise you to spend at least 12 days visiting both countries for a truly unforgettable experience
 

Combining the eclipse viewing with visits to historic sites like the Pyramids of Giza, the Valley of the Kings, and a Nile River cruise are highly recommended.