Dakahlia
Introduction
Located in the northeastern part of Egypt, Dakahlia is a governorate that has been home to some of the country’s most fascinating archaeological sites. Among the most famous of these is the ancient city of Tanis, a metropolis that once rivaled Memphis and Thebes in wealth and power. Despite being largely forgotten for centuries, Tanis has finally begun to reveal its secrets, and what has been uncovered is nothing short of astonishing.
The Discovery of Tanis
Tanis was first discovered in the 19th century by French archaeologist Auguste Mariette, who was on a mission to uncover the lost city of Zoan, mentioned in ancient texts. After years of searching, Mariette finally stumbled upon the ruins of Tanis in 1869. Excavations began immediately, and it soon became clear that this was no ordinary city.
The History of Tanis
Tanis was founded around 3000 BCE, during the Protodynastic Period, and quickly grew into a major city. Its exact location was strategically situated at the mouth of the Pelusiac branch of the Nile, making it a hub for trade and commerce. The city’s wealth and influence continued to grow throughout the Old Kingdom, with its rulers minting their own coins and building elaborate temples and tombs.
One of the most famous rulers of Tanis was Psusennes I, who reigned from around 1042-1011 BCE. During his reign, Psusennes I built numerous temples and monuments, including the magnificent Temple of Amun at Tanis. This temple was dedicated to the worship of Amun, one of Egypt’s most important gods, and featured intricate carvings and statues.
The Archaeological Site
Today, visitors can explore the archaeological site of Tanis, which is located about 10 kilometers north of the modern city of San El-Hagar. The site is divided into two main areas: the Lower City and the Upper City. The Lower City is home to the remains of ancient houses, workshops, and storage facilities, while the Upper City features more impressive structures such as temples and palaces.
One of the most impressive sights at Tanis is the temple complex known as Sarettu. This complex is home to several temples, including the Temple of Amun mentioned earlier, as well as a temple dedicated to the goddess Neith. The temple walls are adorned with beautiful carvings and reliefs depicting scenes from ancient Egyptian mythology.
Recent Discoveries
In recent years, archaeologists have made several significant discoveries at Tanis, shedding new light on its history and significance. One of the most notable discoveries was made in 2018, when a team led by Dr. Kathleen Martinez discovered a previously unknown tomb belonging to an ancient Egyptian official named Ahmes-Nebet. The tomb dates back to around 1300 BCE and contains beautifully preserved artifacts and wall paintings.
Another recent discovery is a large stone statue of Psusennes I that was unearthed in 2019. The statue is over 2 meters tall and weighs several tons, making it one of the largest stone statues ever found in Egypt.
Conclusion
Tanis is a treasure trove of ancient history and culture, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of Egypt’s pharaohs and nobles. From its strategic location on the Nile to its impressive temples and palaces, Tanis is a must-see destination for anyone interested in ancient Egypt. With ongoing excavations and discoveries being made regularly, there is always something new to learn about this fascinating city.
