Mastaba of Mereruka, Cairo Travel Guide

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Explore the elaborate tomb of Vizier Mereruka in Saqqara and discover vivid scenes of daily life in ancient Egypt's Old Kingdom.

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Mastaba of Mereruka

The Mastaba of Mereruka, located in the Saqqara necropolis, is the tomb of Mereruka, a vizier during the 6th Dynasty (c. 2345–2323 BC). It's one of the largest and most elaborate non-royal tombs in Saqqara, boasting 33 rooms adorned with vivid reliefs depicting scenes of daily Egyptian life.

A brief summary to Mastaba of Mereruka

V6GC+8GP, Badrshein, Saqarah, Giza Governorate, EG
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Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
Friday 8 am-4:30 pm
Saturday 8 am-4:30 pm
Sunday 8 am-4:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mastaba of Mereruka.

Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
A separate ticket or an all-inclusive ticket may be required to visit the tomb.
Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
Photography is usually not permitted inside the tomb.

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Getting There

Taxi

From Cairo, a taxi is the most direct way to reach the Mastaba of Mereruka. Agree on a fare with the driver before starting the journey. The ride typically takes about an hour, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around EGP 82 from Giza. Some drivers may quote in USD, so confirm the currency beforehand.
Public Transport

To reach Saqqara by public transport from Cairo, take the Metro Line 2 to El Monib station. From there, transfer to a minibus heading to El Badrasheen. The minibus ride takes approximately one hour. Upon arrival in El Badrasheen, hire a tuk-tuk or taxi to cover the remaining 9 kilometers to the Saqqara Necropolis. The minibus fare is around EGP 10, and the tuk-tuk/taxi fare should be negotiated (expect to pay EGP 70-100).

Discover more about Mastaba of Mereruka

Located in Saqqara, 40 km southwest of Cairo, the Mastaba of Mereruka offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of an elite official during Egypt's Old Kingdom. This elaborate tomb complex belonged to Mereruka, who served as vizier (the highest-ranking official) during the reign of King Teti. As vizier, he held immense power, even marrying Teti's daughter, Princess Seshseshet Waatetkhethor.The mastaba itself dates back to the 6th Dynasty (2323-2150 BC). It stands out as one of the largest and most intricately decorated non-royal tombs in Saqqara. Discovered in 1892 by Jacques de Morgan, the mastaba comprises 33 rooms, with 21 dedicated to Mereruka, five to his wife, and five to his son, Meryteti.Inside, the walls come alive with detailed reliefs portraying scenes of daily Egyptian life. Visitors can observe depictions of fishing, hunting, metalworking, sailing, and even the force-feeding of animals. Hieroglyphic inscriptions detail Mereruka's titles and provide insights into his life and beliefs. A life-size statue of Mereruka emerges from a niche, representing the focal point of his cult and a place for offerings.Visiting the Mastaba of Mereruka provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and witness the grandeur and complexity of ancient Egyptian society.