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What is an obelisk?
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The ancient Egyptians believed if you did not have your name written down somewhere, that after your death, you would disappear. Everyone made sure their name was written somewhere, including inside their tombs and graves.
The pharaohs ordered monuments built so they would be remembered. These monuments provided places to write their name down in a very public way. Some monuments were temples. Others were obelisks.
Obelisks were made of stone, and often built in pairs. Each obelisk was at least 70 feet tall and most were taller. Each was decorated with writing telling of the great achievements of the person each obelisk honored. This information has told us a great deal about ancient Egyptian life.
New & Old Kingdoms; Build an Obelisk at Mysteries of the Nile
See Also: Cartouche
Free Presentations in PowerPoint format for Ancient Egypt
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