When it comes to Egyptian history, pharaohs are some of the most recognizable characters that both the young and old are interested in learning more about. With a mysterious past that doesn’t begin or end with one of the most renowned of pharaohs (King Tut), there is a lot that researchers and the public still don’t know, as new tombs and ancient artifacts are still being uncovered to this day.
In case you didn’t know, the name ‘pharaoh’ was given to an individual that served as a religious or political leader within the New Kingdom of ancient Egypt. It denotes an official of kingship and actually means “Great House,” which was originally used to refer to the king’s palace. However, over the years , its meaning has lost some of its use and meaning, as Egyptian history started to grow. It wasn’t long before the name became interchangeable with the reference for kings.
To get to know a little bit more about pharaohs, consider some of the facts listed below:
1) When Upper and Lower Egypt joined as one, this is when researchers mark the start of ancient Egypt , estimated around 3000 BC.
2) Throughout the stretch of 3,000 years when Egypt has at the height of its power , it is believed that there were close to 300 pharaohs that ruled over the land during this time period.
3) In ancient Egyptian times, it was the pharaoh that was the most significant individual about the land, as he owned everything associated with Egypt, including the people that resided in the country.
4) Some of the qualities that a pharaoh was expected to exhibit included becoming a decent ruler and showcasing strength and bravery as a warrior.
5) In order to become a pharaoh, a prince had to wait until his father died before this honor could take place.
6) When it came to running the country, the pharaoh looked towards the guidance of officials (called viziers or chief advisors), who took part in making important decisions.
7) During ancient Egyptian times, pharaohs were looked upon as gods.
8) The lineage of a pharaoh was believed to stay strong if they married a half-sister or a full-sister in an attempt to produce children that would possess the same blood of a god.
9) It took years to finish the construction of the burial tombs that would serve as the final resting place of pharaohs. These structures were quite important to the kings, as they played a role in the development and planning of their own pyramids.
10) Kings of Egypt wore a double crown that took characteristics from the Red Crown of Lower Egypt and the White Crown of Upper Egypt. When in battle, a pharaoh placed a blue crown on top of their head. This item was of a different shape.