Ancient Egypt is a civilization that has fascinated the world for centuries, from its towering pyramids and mummified pharaohs to its mystical hieroglyphs. Over the years, many myths and legends about this ancient civilization have emerged, some so deeply embedded in our cultural imagination that we often consider them to be mere fantasy. However, a closer look at recent discoveries and research suggests that some of these myths may not be as far-fetched as we once thought. Here are seven myths about ancient Egypt that may actually be true.
1. Cleopatra Was Not Egyptian
One of the most famous misconceptions about Cleopatra is that she was Egyptian. While she was the last ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, Cleopatra was actually of Macedonian Greek descent. Her family, the Ptolemies, ruled Egypt after the death of Alexander the Great, and they were of Greek origin. Cleopatra was born in 69 BCE and became queen at the age of 18. She was known for speaking multiple languages, including Egyptian, which helped her connect with her subjects and cement her status as the first Ptolemaic ruler to embrace the Egyptian culture.
The truth behind this myth lies in her ability to navigate between her Greek heritage and her role as a leader of Egypt. Her famous relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony are often romanticized, but Cleopatra’s political savvy was just as important as her allure.
2. The Pyramids Were Built by Slaves
The image of thousands of slaves toiling away to build the grand pyramids is one of the most enduring myths of ancient Egypt. However, archaeologists have recently uncovered evidence that contradicts this widely-held belief. Excavations at Giza have revealed that the workers who built the pyramids were likely skilled laborers and not slaves. These workers lived in well-organized, purpose-built workers’ villages and were provided with food, shelter, and medical care.
Furthermore, ancient Egyptian inscriptions describe how the construction of the pyramids was a national project, one that was overseen by highly skilled workers and laborers. Far from being forced into servitude, these workers were respected for their expertise and were likely compensated for their work.
3. The Curse of the Pharaohs
The so-called “Curse of the Pharaohs” is a popular myth that suggests anyone who disturbs the tomb of an ancient Egyptian pharaoh will suffer a tragic and often fatal fate. This myth gained widespread attention after the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922, when several members of the excavation team, including Lord Carnarvon, died under mysterious circumstances shortly after the tomb was opened.
While many historians and scientists dismiss the idea of a literal curse, some suggest that the deaths could have been caused by infections from bacteria or fungi present in the tomb. Recent studies of ancient Egyptian tombs have shown that pathogens, which had been dormant for thousands of years, could potentially cause health issues for those who opened the tombs. The “curse” may have been a form of ancient superstition meant to protect the pharaoh’s tomb from robbers.
4. Ancient Egyptians Knew About the Brain and Its Functions
It was long believed that the ancient Egyptians had little understanding of the brain’s role in human anatomy. They were famously skilled in the art of embalming, but their belief that the heart was the center of thought, emotion, and intelligence led them to remove the brain during mummification and discard it. However, recent discoveries suggest that the Egyptians may have had a more sophisticated understanding of the brain than previously thought.
In fact, ancient Egyptian medical texts, such as the Ebers Papyrus, contain references to the brain, including descriptions of various brain injuries and treatments. While it is true that the Egyptians prioritized the heart in the afterlife, they were also aware of the brain’s importance in bodily function, particularly when it came to injuries to the head. It seems that their medical knowledge was far more advanced than once believed.
5. Ancient Egyptians Practiced Advanced Surgery
For centuries, it was assumed that ancient Egyptian medicine was primitive, and their surgical practices were rudimentary at best. However, the discovery of ancient surgical tools and written medical texts has revealed that ancient Egyptians were, in fact, capable of performing complex surgeries.
Archaeological findings have uncovered evidence of brain surgeries, such as trepanation, where holes were drilled into the skull to treat head injuries or neurological conditions. Additionally, there is evidence of amputations and the use of prosthetic limbs, with a remarkable degree of skill in making artificial limbs that functioned effectively. The ancient Egyptians also had sophisticated knowledge of herbal remedies and treatments for a wide range of ailments.
6. The Sphinx Was Originally Painted
The Great Sphinx of Giza, one of Egypt’s most iconic monuments, is often thought of as a weathered, stone figure that has stood the test of time. However, evidence suggests that the Sphinx was once brightly painted. Traces of red pigment have been discovered on parts of the Sphinx, and it is believed that the statue was originally covered in vibrant colors, much like other monumental Egyptian statues.
The Sphinx, like many other ancient Egyptian monuments, would have been a dazzling sight when first constructed, with intricate colors and details that have faded over millennia. The idea of the Sphinx as a once-colorful and vivid figure challenges the perception of ancient Egypt as a more “monolithic” and stoic culture.
7. The Pyramids Were Not Built by the Egyptians Alone
One of the myths surrounding the pyramids is that they were built exclusively by the ancient Egyptians. While the Egyptians played a major role in the construction, there is evidence to suggest that workers from other regions and cultures also contributed to the building of these massive structures.
It is believed that laborers and skilled workers were brought in from neighboring regions, particularly Nubia and the Levant, to help construct the pyramids. These workers likely brought with them their own techniques and craftsmanship, influencing the construction methods used to build the pyramids. The idea of a diverse workforce working together on these monumental projects adds another layer of complexity to the history of ancient Egypt.
Conclusion: A Civilization Shrouded in Mystery
Ancient Egypt remains one of the most fascinating and enigmatic civilizations in human history. Despite centuries of study and exploration, many aspects of their culture, technology, and beliefs remain shrouded in mystery. These seven myths about ancient Egypt show how, even today, our understanding of this ancient civilization continues to evolve. From the true identity of Cleopatra to the complex nature of Egyptian medical practices, the truth behind these myths reveals the depth and sophistication of a civilization that continues to captivate and inspire.
