Tanis: Egypt’s Most Mysterious Ancient City
When it comes to mysterious ancient cities, none can hold a candle to Tanis, Egypt. Located in the eastern Nile Delta, this ancient city has been the source of debate and speculation for centuries. Mentioned in the Bible and other historical documents, Tanis is believed to be the city of Zoan, the capital of the land of Ramses. It was also the burial place of the Pharaohs, including the famous Pharaoh Ramses II.
Today, Tanis is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Egypt. It is home to a vast array of ruins and artifacts from different periods in history, including the Middle Kingdom, the New Kingdom, and the Graeco-Roman period. Visitors can explore the remains of the old city walls, palaces, temples, and tombs, as well as the remains of the ancient city’s water system.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history and mystery of Tanis, as well as what makes it such an intriguing destination for visitors.
Exploring the History of Tanis
The ancient city of Tanis was first established in the 11th century BC by the Pharaohs of the 21st Dynasty. It was originally known as Djanet, a name which was derived from the Egyptian god of the moon. During its peak, Tanis was a powerful political and religious center and was home to numerous temples and monuments dedicated to the gods of ancient Egypt.
Over the centuries, Tanis has been conquered and destroyed by various empires, including the Assyrians, the Greeks, the Romans, and the Arabs. In the 19th century, the city was finally abandoned and forgotten, until it was rediscovered by archaeologists in the early 1900s.
Since then, Tanis has been excavated and studied by researchers and historians, who have uncovered many artifacts and relics from the city’s past. These include jewelry, pottery, and statuettes, as well as the remains of numerous ancient temples and monuments.
Mysterious Legends of Tanis
In addition to its historical significance, Tanis is also shrouded in mystery. One of the most enduring legends associated with the city is that of the Golden Mask of Pharaoh Ramses II, which is believed to have been buried in one of the tombs beneath the city. This mask is said to be made of solid gold and to be the size of a human face.
Another legend tells of a mysterious chamber beneath the city, which is said to contain the body of the Pharaoh himself. This chamber is said to have been hidden from view for centuries, and is now believed to have been discovered by archaeologists.
Visiting Tanis
Today, Tanis is a popular destination for tourists and archaeologists alike. It is located just outside of the modern city of San el-Hagar, and can be easily reached by car or bus. The site is open daily, and visitors can explore the ruins and artifacts from the city’s past.
Visitors can also take part in guided tours of the city, which are available in both English and Arabic. These tours explore the history and mystery of Tanis, and are a great way to learn more about the city’s past.
If you’re looking for a unique and fascinating destination in Egypt, then Tanis is definitely the place to go. With its mysterious past, ancient ruins, and legends, there’s no wonder why it’s one of the most popular archaeological sites in the country. So, if you’re intrigued by ancient civilizations and love exploring historical mysteries, make sure to add Tanis to your itinerary when visiting Egypt.