'''Saqqara''' is the name given both to a village 32 km to the south of the Egyptian capital of Cairo ''and'' (more particularly) to the extensive ancient necropolis on the plateau above the Nile Valley, the location of tombs and pyramids dating to the Predynastic, Old Kingdom, New Kingdom and Late Periods of ancient Egyptian history.

Understand

The desert plateau above the modern village of Saqqara formed one of the main cemeteries of the ancient Egyptian capital city of Memphis for thousands of years. As such, it attracted a large number of royal and high prestige burials, the remains of which can be seen in pyramids and decorated tombs scattered across the area. The site of Saqqara is quite extensive, stretching 6 km north-south and 1.5 km across at its widest point.

Get in

By taxi / cab

Taxis can be hired from central Cairo to visit Saqqara. Negotiate with your driver for a daily rate.

By bus

Bus services ''do'' exist to Saqqara from central Cairo, but entail a lengthy journey and a long walk from the village up to the plateau.

Get around

See

  • Saqqara Necropolis. pen daily 8am-5pm. dmission LE__50.

  • Step Pyramid of Djoser. This structure marks the transition between the bench-like ''mastaba'' style of burial and the true pyramid shape (first seen at