Thames & Hudson

 

 
ABYDOS
Egypt's First Pharaohs and the Cult of Osiris
David O'Connor

The most comprehensive book ever on one of the major archaeological sites in Egypt

The ancient site of Abydos lies between the towering cliffs of the Egyptian high desert and the lush green floodplain of the Nile. As both the burial place of the first kings of Egypt and a cult center of Osiris, this sacred city has long tantalized archaeologists with incredible finds. These include the oldest surviving boats in the world, the earliest indications of writing in Egypt, and stunning temples and tombs, many predating the first pyramids at Saqqara.

With over forty years’ experience excavating and researching at Abydos, David O’Connor is in an unrivaled position to provide the most authoritative and up-to-date account of this unique Egyptian site. He has himself made some of the most sensational discoveries at Abydos, including a magnificent royal burial consisting of fourteen boats, all dating from before 3000 BC.

Here, for the first time, Professor O’Connor not only explains the complex history of Abydos but also vividly evokes the power that the sacred landscape held for contemporary Egyptians. This beautifully illustrated book will be of interest to anyone who has ever wondered about the origins of one of the greatest civilizations in world history.

David O’Connor is Professor of Ancient Egyptian Art, Institute of Fine Arts, New York University.

ALSO OF INTEREST:

King Tutankhamun

The Complete Pyramids

The Complete Valley of the Kings


ISBN 978-0-500-39030-6 · 73/4" x 10" · 140 illustrations, 15 in color · 216 pages · HISTORY / ARCHAEOLOGY

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