5. necropolis

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A necropolis, by definition, is a cemetery, specifically a large one located in an ancient city (1). Many famous necropolises are located throughout Egypt, some of the most famous being at Saqqara and Giza (2). Often, pharaohs would build large necropolises, many of the most famous consisting of pyramids. Often, these necropolises would be intended for royalty, but over time, lesser officials would buy land in the same area to be associated with the royal family (3). Also, a necropolis can give archaeologists important insights into ancient Egyptian life. Many of the tombs were decorated with paintings of the deceased person's life, along with the belongings of that person. These paintings and belongings provide the necessary tools to understand their daily lives and what was happening at the time in which they lived. Through the excavation of these tombs, modern day people can learn about life in ancient Egypt (4).

Sources:

(1) http://www.dictionary.com/browse/necropolis

(2) The Manual Page 125

(3) http://www.ancient.eu/giza/

(4) http://www.history.com/news/archaeologists-uncover-rare-egyptian-funerary-boat-near-pyramid

Image: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giza_pyramid_complex

Lexie Farnell