Egyptian Settlements > Memphis

Memphis

Background

The city of Memphis was a major Egyptian capital that is believed to have been founded by Menes. According to the Egyptian historian Manetho the city was the capital of the Old Kingdom and occupied a strategic position right on the Nile River delta. Being the capital of Egypt it was well known for its beautiful monuments and sculptures as well as being a center for religion, trade and commerce.

Memphis only began to decline in prominence with the rise of Alexandria in Egypt right on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Following the establishment of this new Hellenistic port city by Alexander the Great, the city of Memphis would move down to become the second most important city in all of Egypt and in close competition with Thebes.

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