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The Old Kingdom
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Upper Egypt (the Nile valley) and Lower Egypt (the delta) were united as one country more than 5,000 years ago.
By the 3rd Dynasty, the kingdom was rich and powerful. Its kings, or pharaohs, were believed to be living gods. When they died, they were buried in huge tombs, called pyramids, and their bodies were often carried to the burial place by special funeral boats.
By the 5th Dynasty, the kingdom was breaking down. Kings lost their power. The Nile flood failed for several years, causing famine. The country became divided again, until the 11th Dynasty.
ROYAL FUNERAL
The pharaoh's body was brought by boat to a valley temple. From there, it was carried into the pyramid.
FUNERAL BOAT
A special boat was built for the pharaoh. Later, the boat itself was buried near the tomb.
COFFIN
The body was 'mummified' to preserve it, then placed in several coffins.
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Previous:
Back
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Book:
The Egyptians
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Section:
Ancient Egypt
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Chapter:
The Old Kingdom
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