Saqqara, also spelled Sakkara, is an ancient burial ground located in Egypt, south of Cairo. The word is pronounced /səˈkærə/ in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) and spelled using the English alphabet as S-A-Q-Q-A-R-A. The doubled consonants in the word indicate a short vowel sound and emphasize its pronunciation. The site of Saqqara is notable for its step pyramid, a monument built for the Pharaoh Djoser in the 27th century BCE, and is a popular destination for tourists and archaeologists alike.
Saqqara is an ancient Egyptian necropolis located approximately 30 kilometers south of Cairo, near the city of Memphis. It is an extensive archaeological site that served as the burial ground for Memphis, the capital of ancient Egypt for over 2,000 years.
The name Saqqara, also spelled Sakkara or Sakkrah, is derived from the ancient Egyptian word "Sekht-am-aat," which means "Field of Stones." This name accurately describes the vast area filled with numerous tombs, pyramids, and monuments that make up the necropolis.
One of the most prominent features of Saqqara is the Step Pyramid of Djoser, which is considered to be the oldest surviving stone pyramid in Egypt. Built during the Third Dynasty of the Old Kingdom, the Step Pyramid complex showcases the innovation and architectural advancements of the time.
Saqqara also houses various other pyramids, including the Pyramid of Teti and the Pyramid of Unas, which are known for their beautifully preserved hieroglyphic inscriptions and burial chambers. Numerous tombs and mastabas (rectangular-shaped tombs) belonging to nobles and high-ranking officials can also be found at Saqqara.
The vast historical significance and wealth of archaeological finds at Saqqara have made it an important site for studying ancient Egyptian culture, religious beliefs, and burial rituals. Its exploration and excavation continue to yield valuable insights into one of the oldest civilizations in human history.
The word "Saqqara" comes from the Arabic "Sakkara" (سقارة), which is derived from the ancient Egyptian name "Imenet Khentet", meaning "the Place of the Contructed Wall". It refers to the vast ancient necropolis complex located near the town of Saqqara in modern-day Egypt. Saqqara was one of the main burial grounds for the ancient capital of Memphis and contains numerous pyramids, tombs, and monuments from different periods of Egyptian history.