Memphis lies between Upper and Lower Egypt. Memphis is the Greek translation of its original name, but the city was originally Ineb-Hegj, meaning, "White Wall".Memphis was founded in 3,100 BC. Memphis is the legendary city of Menes, the king who united Upper and Lower Egypt. Since Memphis probably originated in Upper Egypt, from Memphis, the king could conquer all the people of Lower Egypt. By the third dynasty Memphis had probably become a huge city. Menes founded Memphis by creating dikes to protect it from harsh Nile floods. Memphis was so dominating, that today we call that era the Memphite Period. It was probably one of the largest and most important cities in the ancient world! Many Greeks, Jews, Phonicians, and Libyans were included in Memphis's population. Scholars believe that the city moved north and then south throughout its 3 millenium history.There is little left of the city today, that can be seen. The city once had many beautiful temples, palaces, and gardens. |