The region of Thebes, also known by its ancient name of Waset, is located in southern Egypt. It includes the modern city of Luxor, as well as important archaeological sites on the west bank of the Nile. The first settlements in Thebes date from the predynastic period, but it was in the early Middle Kingdom (c. 2055–1650 BC) that Thebes acquired particular importance, becoming the capital of Egypt.
Thebes during the Middle Kingdom and the New Kingdom
Under the 11th and 12th dynasties, Thebes became a major political, religious and cultural center. The pharaohs of this era built many temples and monuments in the region, including the funerary complex of Mentuhotep II at Deir el-Bahari.
The New Kingdom period (c. 1550–1077 BC) sees the heyday of Thebes as the capital of Egypt. Pharaohs like Hatshepsut, Amenhotep III and Ramesses II greatly enriched the city, building sumptuous temples and monuments such as the Temple of Karnak, the Temple of Luxor and the Colossi of Memnon.
Thebes and the Cult ofAmun
Thebes was the main center of worship of the god Amun, one of the most revered deities of ancient Egypt. The temple of Karnak, dedicated to Amun, is one of the largest religious complexes in the world, testifying to the importance of this god in Egyptian religion.
The Greco-Roman Period
With the arrival of the Ptolemies and later the Romans, Thebes lost its importance as a political center, but it remained an important place of worship and pilgrimage. Several temples and structures are built or modified during this period.
Modern Thebes
Thebes fell into decline during the Middle Ages, but was rediscovered by European travelers and archaeologists in the 19th century. Since then, Thebes has become a major archaeological site and a popular tourist destination.
Conservation and Archaeological Research
Today, the conservation of the monuments of Thebes is a priority. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and archaeological excavations continue to reveal new information about this fascinating period of Egyptian history.
Thebes is a testament to the height of Egyptian civilization, a place where politics, religion and art came together to create monuments and works of art that continue to amaze and intrigue until Today.