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Shunet El Zebib: Ancient Monument of Abydos

Explore Shunet El Zebib in Abydos, one of Egypt's oldest royal monuments, dating back to 2700 BCE, and a precursor to the iconic pyramids.

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Shunet El Zebib, also known as Shuneh or Middle Fort, is a massive mudbrick structure in Abydos, Upper Egypt, dating back to around 2700 BCE. Built by King Khasekhemwy of the Second Dynasty, it served as a funerary enclosure and is one of the oldest standing royal monuments in Egypt. Its architecture is a precursor to the pyramid complexes of the Old Kingdom.

A brief summary to Shunet El Zebib

  • 5WQ5+V4V, El Balyana, Bani Mansour, Sohag Governorate, 82873, EG

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain, as the site is an ancient structure with original surfaces.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds, especially during the summer months.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, as there is limited shade available at the site.
  • Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of Shunet El Zebib.
  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as they may vary depending on the season and holidays.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From El Balyana, the most convenient way to reach Shunet El Zebib is by taxi. Taxis can be found near the train station or arranged through your accommodation. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A typical taxi ride from El Balyana to Shunet El Zebib takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Expect to pay around 50-80 EGP for a one-way trip. Confirm the price beforehand and ensure the driver knows the location of Shunet El Zebib.

  • Walking

    While it is technically possible to walk to Shunet El Zebib from El Balyana, it is not recommended due to the distance (approximately 9-10km) and the lack of shade. The walk would take over 2 hours in the desert heat. If you choose to walk, bring plenty of water, wear appropriate clothing, and be aware of your surroundings. There are no entrance fees to access the general area.

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Discover more about Shunet El Zebib

Shunet El Zebib, located in Abydos, Upper Egypt, is an imposing mudbrick structure with a rich history stretching back to the Second Dynasty. Constructed around 2700 BCE by King Khasekhemwy, the last ruler of the dynasty, it stands as a testament to ancient Egyptian architectural innovation and religious tradition. The name Shunet El Zebib translates to "raisin barn" or "storage of the raisins," though the reason for this name remains unknown. Alternatively, it is also known as Shuneh and Middle Fort. Originally built as a funerary enclosure, Shunet El Zebib served as a "Ka-house," a place where the deceased king's spirit could be worshipped. This practice predates the elaborate mortuary temples of the Old Kingdom. The structure consists of two interlaced rectangular walls, resembling a shoebox in design. The outer wall measures approximately 137 x 77 meters and is about 5 meters thick and 12 meters high. The inner wall measures 123 x 56 meters, with a thickness of about 3 meters and a height of 8 meters. The facade of the outer wall features niches, mimicking a royal palace facade. Shunet El Zebib is considered a crucial link in the evolution of pyramid construction. Its architectural similarities to the Pyramid of Djoser, including the niched facades and stepped design, are striking. The flat, stepped mound at the center of Shunet El Zebib is seen as a prototype for later pyramids. Today, Shunet El Zebib is maintained by Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities and is open to tourists.

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