Near Eastern Institute

Abydos

Abydos is the 8^th Nome of Ancient Upper Egypt. Geographically, it stretches 11 kilometers west of the Nile river. The modern Arabic name of it is called el-’Araba el Madfuna. Its capital is called Abdju which means the hill of symbol or reliquary in the system of hieroglyphics. It is believed, particularly the Egyptians, that the preserved sacred head of Osiris is found in Abydos. Osiris is one of the many Egyptian gods and is regarded as the god of the afterlife. Osiris was widely worshipped notably in the northern part of Egypt not until the Egyptian religion was inhibited by the height of the Christian era.

The ancient city of Abydos is remarked as one of the most significant archeological sites not just in Ancient Egypt but in the whole region of Middle East and North Africa. The famous Umm el-Qa’ab which is a royal necropolis and a site where ancient pharaohs were buried is also located in the sacred city of Abydos. This has become one of the money reasons why the city is considered to be an important cult region.

Abydos is also known for the memorial temple of Seti I. Hewas one of the ancient pharaohs during the nineteenth dynasty of ancient Egypt. The temple of Seti I has an inscription which is popularly known to the modern age as the Abydos King List. This famous list contains and shows the cartouches of these dynastic pharaohs from the very beginning. The Abydos King List was thehn discovered again by famous archeologist William John Bankes and it has been called as the “Rosetta Stone” in the Egyptian writing.

Because of the reputation of this ancient city as a cult region, different tourists from all over the world are interested to catch a glimpse of Egypt during those times. Presently, Abydos still has remains of grandeur such as temples and other structures. Several decorations have been engraved in these important tombs throughout Egypt. These are the recorded journeys of tourist who were so proud to have visited the place as they feel that they are being part of ancient times.

Several accounts of ancient leaders were also found in the city of Abydos. However, most of these were verified as more of mythical than historical. Moreover, the work is being recognized because of its artistry and delicacy. On the other hand, the accounts did not reflect life and character during the early ages.

In addition, tombs during the ancient times are not similar to that of the modern times. These tombs are more commonly known as forts in the modern ages as what researcher regard them. Some of these tomb structures are about 450 × 250 feet and stands to about 30 feet. Because it has been built in the earliest times, the age of these forts cannot be verified or can be but maybe not quite accurate.

There is also some esoteric mysticism that are interpreted in the hieroglyphics found on these tombs. Some interpret certain circular symbols as “Unidentified Flying Objects” or other obscure imagery. However, these are commonly concluded as the result of natural acts such as erosion.