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.