Blessed with ruins of paramount importance, Memphis will immerse all history enthusiasts in the depths of antiquity. Regarded as the largest religious center of ancient Égypte, it was also the former royal residence of Egyptian pharaohs. Memphis will captivate you with its unparalleled archaeological treasures, including the Pyramids of Gizeh, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Memphis at a Glance

Memphis is located several kilometers south of Cairo, in the suburbs of Mit-Rahineh and Helwan. It held the title of capital of the nome of the White Wall, the first nome of Lower Égypte. This ancient pharaonic capital occupies an area of 163.58 km2. Memphis and the remains of its necropolis were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

A Journey Through Its History

The city of Memphis underwent several name changes throughout its history. At the very beginning, it was called Inebou Hedjou then Ineb Hedj. During the First Intermediate Period, it was known as Djed Sout, in reference to the name of Teti's pyramid.

During the Middle Kingdom, the city bore the name Ânkh Taouy or "the Life of the Two Lands". "Memphis", a Greek appellation, was derived instead from the Égyptian name of Pepi I's pyramid: Men-nefer. This name emerged toward the twilight of the Middle Kingdom. The city is also known as Mekhat Taouy or significantly "Balance of the Two Lands".

What to See in Memphis?

Visiting the monuments of Memphis is an essential experience for any stay in Égypte. Here are the attractions you cannot miss in this city of the pharaohs:

The Necropolises of Memphis

With its numerous inhabitants, Memphis is characterized by a considerable number of necropolises scattered along the valley. The Saqqara necropolis proves to be the largest and most popular in the region. You will find the relics of the Égyptian deity Osiris here.

The Royal Palaces

With its four thousand years of existence, Memphis saw the construction of several royal palaces as well as divine monuments: the Palace of Merenptah, the Palace of Apries...

The Hou – ka – The Great Temple of Ptah

It is also called "The Castle of the ka of Ptah". This temple dominated a large portion of the ancient city. You can admire these remains near Ramesses II, in the open-air museum south of the temple. The Great Temple of Ptah also houses statues, stelae, colossi...

The Small Temple of Ptah of Ramesses

The discovery of this construction dates back to 1942. This small temple features a pylon, a columned portico, a pillared hall, a three-part sanctuary, and a court for ritual offerings. Despite its size, it boasts being a complete religious edifice.

The Temple of Ptah of Merenptah

Merenptah or Mineptah was the son of Ramesses II. During his reign, he brought a new breath of modernity to the city. The expansion of the Great Temple of Ptah was his achievement.

The Great Temple of Hathor

A masterpiece of Ramesses II, this ancient treasure owes its reputation to ancient inscriptions. It was one of the foremost sanctuaries of the Égyptian Goddess. Standing 50 meters high and 20 meters wide, this temple of incredible dimensions is well worth the detour.

The Temple of Neith

This structure, typical of ancient Égypte, was dedicated to the protective goddess Neith.

Among other monuments absolutely worth photographing, do not miss:

• The Temple of Sekhmet
• The Temple of Apis
• The Temple of Amon and the Temple of Aton
• The Temple of Astarte
• The Sanctuary of Mithra

Practical Information

When Should You Go?

Planning to follow in the footsteps of the pharaohs in Memphis? Subject to a desert climate, this part of Égypte experiences virtually no rainfall. In the evening, it is cooler but the thermometer will not drop below 20°C. The most favorable period to visit is between March and November. During this time, rain will never be in the forecast.

To reach Memphis, several options are available:

Train Travel

You will take the line heading to Tora El-asmant from Martyrs. From there, you take a taxi to Memphis. You can also choose the Martyrs – Hadayek Helwan route and then take a taxi toward Memphis.

By Taxi

If you depart from Cairo, you can take a taxi for a direct Cairo – Memphis route. This journey will take approximately half an hour.

Car Rental

This is the most interesting option, giving you greater freedom.

It is also possible to visit the city during a cruise along the Nile river.

To explore this vast ancient city, some of whose remains are still buried six feet underground, you can move on foot, on horseback, or why not on camelback?