03 egyptian architecture

Egyptian Architecture Overview

Key Influences

  • Geographical Location: Ancient civilization along the Nile Delta, known as "The Land of Pharaohs."

  • Building Technologies: Utilization of abundant local materials, primarily stone, with innovations in architectural design.

Styles and Elements

  • Egyptian Capitals: Lotus, papyrus, palm capitals.

  • Architectural Orders: Includes Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian systems from later influences.

  • Structural Features: Use of arches, vaults, and domes in later periods.

Construction Materials

  • Soft Stones: Limestone, sandstone, and alabaster widely used.

  • Hard Stones: Granite, quartzite, basalt.

  • Other Materials: Mud bricks for pyramids, date palm for roofing, clay for construction.

Climatic Considerations

  • Seasons: Flood season and ordinary/hot desert season impacted architecture. No water/sewage systems in structures.

  • Site Orientation: East and west orientation of tombs for rebirth and resurrection relating to sun worship.

Historical Periods

Old Kingdom (2850-2052 BC)

  • Key Events: Step Pyramid of King Djoser marks major architectural milestone. The Great Pyramid of Giza is constructed.

  • Religious Context: Pharaohs as divine figures; worship centered on gods like Amun and Osiris.

Middle Kingdom (2052-1570 BC)

  • Significant Developments: Unification by Mentuhotep II; construction of Karnak Temple and terraced temple-tombs.

New Kingdom (1570-714 BC)

  • Expansion and Prosperity: Egypt becomes a power with significant temple constructions, including those in Luxor and Karnak.

Architectural Characteristics

  • Three Major Traits: Monumentality, massiveness, simplicity defined Egyptian architecture.

  • Construction Techniques: Post-and-lintel systems without arches and vaults; axial planning in significant structures.

Types of Egyptian Tombs

  1. Mastabas: Flat-roofed tombs with chapels, orientation for spirits’ travel.

  2. Pyramids: Stepped structures evolving from mastabas for royal burials, exemplifying vast engineering capabilities.

  3. Rock-Hewn Tombs: Carved directly into rock faces, often intricately decorated.

Notable Structures

  • Pyramids of Giza: Include the Great Pyramid of Khufu, reflecting advanced engineering.

  • Temples: Such as Temple of Hatshepsut and Amun at Karnak, showcasing monumental architecture and religious significance.

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