The more we learn about Ancient Egypt, the more questions we have–How did they manage to build something as magnificent as the Great Pyramids of Giza? (was it really aliens?) And what secrets lie behind their complex rituals about the afterlife? With that in mind, here are some interesting facts about Ancient Egypt that will blow your mind and no doubt leave you in awe of one of the most extraordinary eras in history.
They Signed the First Peace Treaty in History
While Ancient Egypt is often remembered for its monumental structures and powerful pharaohs, it also set a precedent for diplomacy. One of the earliest known peace treaties was forged between the Egyptians and the Hittites after the epic Battle of Kadesh in 1274 BCE. This agreement ended years of conflict and established a model for conflict resolution that resonates through the ages.
Who Actually Built the Pyramids
Contrary to common beliefs, the workers who built the pyramids were compensated and treated better than the narrative of enslaved labor suggests. Archaeological evidence showed that they were skilled workers and not slaves, and were part of a well-organized workforce, receiving compensation in the form of food, drink, and essential supplies.
The Great Pyramid of Giza Can Tell Time
Speaking of the Pyramids, The Great Pyramid of Giza is not just an architectural marvel but also a giant sundial. Its shadows can indicate the solstices and help measure time.
King Tut’s Unexpected Death
The untimely death of King Tutankhamun has puzzled historians for centuries. While theories range from genetic disorders to chariot accidents, one startling possibility suggests that the young pharaoh might have fallen victim to a hippopotamus. Evidence from his mummified remains reveals injuries consistent with an attack by one of these animals, which were both revered and feared in Ancient Egypt.
Cleopatra Lived Closer to Modern Times Than Ancient Beginnings
Cleopatra VII, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, lived approximately 2,500 years after the Great Pyramid of Giza was built and 2,000 years before the moon landing, making Cleopatra closer to the modern world than to the beginnings of the ancient civilization, highlighting how vast and enduring Ancient Egypt truly was.
Ancient Egyptians Were Pioneers of Astronomy
The Ancient Egyptians were among the first to use the stars for practical purposes. Farmers relied on the rising of Sirius, the Dog Star, in mid-July as a signal for the annual flooding of the Nile, crucial for agriculture. Travelers navigated the deserts using constellations as their guide, while others looked to the heavens for spiritual and mystical insights, laying the groundwork for modern astrology.
Ancient Egyptians Also Indulged in Beer
Long before it became a global beverage, beer was a staple of daily life in Ancient Egypt. It was so integral to society that workers who built the pyramids were often compensated with beer rations. Crafted from barley and emmer wheat, Egyptian beer was both a source of nourishment and a sacred offering to the gods.
The Sphinx Was Originally Painted
The Great Sphinx of Giza wasn’t always the sandy color we see today. It was originally painted in vibrant colors, including red for the face and body, blue for the beard, and yellow for the headpiece.
Mummification Took 70 Days
The intricate process of mummification took about 70 days to complete. Organs were removed, the body was dried out with natron salts, and then wrapped in linen. The heart was often left in place, as it was believed to be the seat of the soul.
