Physical Geography
Egypt is most famously known for its long-standing connection to the Nile River and the two deserts that make up the majority of the country’s terrain. According to National Geographic, the Nile is famous for its annual floods that deposit rich soil along ancient embankments, creating a barren-like oasis for the surrounding area. Additionally, the Nile is a source of life for many individuals as it provides fresh water for both irrigation and drinking. Egypt also consists of two deserts, the Sahara and the Libyan, which are located on either side of the Nile Valley. These two deserts create a unique environment, as the iron-rich sand creates an ever-changing landscape.
Climate
Ancient Egypt’s climate was separated into three distinct seasons: akhet (inundation), proyet (growth), and shomu (harvest). According to the Worldwide Weather Guide, the vast majority of Egypt’s year is composed of a hot, dry season that begins in late spring and continues to early fall. This hot season would typically be followed by a mild winter when the annual flooding occurred along the Nile. The overall climate in ancient Egypt had heavy influence on the ancient agricultural cycle, as the Nile floods provided much needed minerals and nutrients for the soil and vegetation.
Flora and Fauna
The conditions in ancient Egypt provided a unique environment to support a number of different types of flora and fauna. According to the Science of Ancient Egypt, the Nile River provided an abundance of fish that made up a large portion of the population’s diet. Additionally, the surrounding lands were abundant with a variety of edible fruits and vegetables, such as dates, figs, and grain. In terms of wildlife, ancient Egyptians were known to have enjoyed a variety of birds, including geese, ducks, and flamingoes. Additionally, the area featured a diverse range of dangerous predators including lions, wolves, and hyenas.
Cities and Trade
The geography of ancient Egypt played a major role in the development of its major cities. Hieroglyphics found in these areas suggest that the area was populated by as early as 5,000 BCE. According to History Magazine, some of these cities included Memphis, located close to the NW Delta, and Thebes, situated close to Luxor. Located in the midst of both Africa and Asia, Egypt found itself as a crossroad for trade, which significantly helped foster its development.
The Suez Canal
By the mid-19th century geographers had identified the potential of a waterway between the Mediterranean and the Red Sea to facilitate trade between Europe and the Indian Ocean. The Suez canal was dug in 1858–69 by the French entrepreneur Ferdinand de Lesseps to link the Mediterranean to the Red Sea. According to the BBC, the construction of this canal revolutionized the region’s trade systems, as it provided a faster route of running goods and supplies between Europe and East Asia.
The Pyramids of Giza
The Pyramids of Giza are probably one of the most famous archaeological discoveries of all time. Located close to the western edge of the Nile Delta, the Pyramids of Giza were constructed in the 26th century BCE. According to Live Science, it is believed that the pyramids were built as funerary monuments, representing the burial chambers of the powerful Pharaohs from the Fourth Dynasty.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the physical geography of ancient Egypt is one of the most unique and celebrated features of this ancient society. Its connection to the Nile River, two desert’s, and Mediterranean coastline have played a major role in the advancement of its culture and economy. Additionally, this area’s distinct climate served as a great aid for the people of the Day Kingdom due to its annual flooding of the Nile. Finally, the presence of major archaeological discoveries, such as the Pyramids of Giza, serve as a reminder of the grand scale of this civilization.