ABYDOS - EGYPT'S FIRST PHARAOHS AND THE CULT OF OSIRIS

Abydos is one of the most fascinating and archaeologically important sites in southern Egypt. This beautifully illustrated book will be of interest to anyone who ever wondered about the origins of one of the greatest world civilizations. David O’Connor clarifies not only the complex history of Abydos, but also, through an exploration of the sacred landscape of the area, vividly evokes the power it held for contemporary Egyptians. As both the burial place of the first kings of Egypt and a cult centre of Osiris, god of the dead, this sacred area has long tantalized archaeologists with its continuing yield of incredible finds, including the earliest indications of writing in Egypt as well as a stunning array of temples, tombs and other enigmatic structures, many far earlier even than the first pyramids at Saqqara. David O’Connor is in an unrivalled position to provide the most up-to-date and comprehensive account of this unique site, and has himself made some of Abydos’ most sensational discoveries, including 14 buried boats the earliest built boats to be preserved anywhere.