Cosmos Global: In the Land of the Pharaohs

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

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Catalogue Number: CDG-DVD-114

UPC: 883629282329

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The Pyramids of Giza are undoubtedly one of the most impressive and famous historic sites of ancient Egypt, the land of the Pharaohs, a land whose treasures are still, more than 4,000 years after their construction, remarkable. A total of 2.3 million stone blocks form the largest pyramid, the Cheops, which was built around 2560 BC on an elevated plateau on the edge of the western desert.

The huge contours of the Pyramids of Giza still dominate Cairo's surrounding landscape. Their dimensions symbolize timeless power, and in red shining colors the sky announces the fall of dusk and highlights the dramatic, magical beauty of these monuments.

The Step Pyramid of King Djoser rises up almost 70 meters above the ground, and it was the world's first monumental stone building. Thus the Step Pyramid is often referred to as the "mother of all pyramids." A narrow maze-like corridor leads from the outside world into the dark depths of the pyramid and the Pharaoh's tomb.

The flowering period of Thebes began in the Middle Empire when it became the new capital and lasted up until around the 14th century BC, when Memphis regained its importance and influence. Today, Thebes is closely connected with this town of death along the western shore of the Nile and the legendary Valley of the Kings.

In 1922, the discovery of the royal tomb of Tutankhamen by British archaeologist Howard Carter was particularly important. After five years of excavation, the scientists were successful, and the spectacular treasures surpassed their highest expectations.

Tutankhamen died at the tender age of 19, his rule thus having little historical significance, but the treasures in his tomb made him one of the most famous kings of Ancient Egypt. Today, his legendary sarcophagus, made entirely of gold, is exhibited in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

Up until now, more than 70 tombs have been found in the neighboring Valley of the Queens. Princes who died at an early age were also buried there. The grave of Nefertari, the wife of Ramses II, is considered to be one of the most beautiful in the valley.

The Land of the Pharaohs is a fantastic and colorful journey into the intriguing depths of ancient history.