Memphis, Cairo

Historic Site near Cairo

Public Domain / Barrylb

Memphis, the ancient city and capital of Egypt, played a significant role throughout much of the country's history. Situated on the west bank of the Nile River, approximately 15 miles (24 km) south of modern-day Cairo, Memphis is located south of the Nile River delta.

The famous pyramids of Egypt are found within the cemeteries or necropolises of Memphis, with the main pyramid fields stretching from north to south as Abū Ruwaysh, Giza, Zāwiyat al-ʿAryān, Abū Ṣīr, Ṣaqqārah, and Dahshūr. In recognition of its cultural and historical significance, the Memphis archaeological zone was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979.

Egypt's very first capital city was Memphis, which according to some records, may have existed as early as 6000 BC. Today, visitors can explore the open-air museum, which showcases the city's foundations, stump pillars, and several statues.

During a visit, tourists can view many of the city’s notable highlights, including the alabaster sphinx and the enormous statue of Ramesses II.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.3 (129)

Ruins of Memphis, located in Mit Rahinah near Badrishein in Giza Governorate, is an open-air archaeological museum where visitors stroll among large statues, sphinxes and other remnants of the ancient capital; highlights cited by visitors include the colossal reclining limestone statue of Ramesses II displayed in a covered pavilion and the large alabaster sphinx. Reviewers describe the site as relatively small, peaceful and inexpensive to visit, with on-site toilets and nearby stalls selling souvenirs (buyers should be cautious), and recommend going early to avoid crowds; some note limited on-site interpretation about individual monuments, but still recommend it for history lovers or as a stop if visiting Saqqara.

5 months ago

"The Ruins of Memphis Museum, located in the ancient capital of Egypt, offers a captivating glimpse into the country’s early dynastic glory. Thehighlight is undoubtedly the colossal statue of Ramses II, lying majestically in a covered pavilion. Carved from limestone and originally standing over 10 meters tall, the statue is breathtaking in its detail and scale, even in its reclining position due to missing lower legs. Surrounding the statue, the open-air museum features an impressive collection of statues, sphinxes, and remnants from what was once a thriving metropolis. Though smaller and quieter than sites like Giza or Luxor, Memphis holds a special charm, steeped in history and the grandeur of one of Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs. It’s a peaceful, easily walkable site, perfect for travelers who want to step off the beaten path and explore Egypt’s ancient heart. Entrance fee: 200 Egyptian pounds for non-Egyptians..."

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Crystal Dougherty

a month ago

"Hard to get to, but cheap to get in. It's small but if your already doing Saquara, why not stop. Do not trust the vendors, I tried to buy a scarf butgot bambozzaled by the vender in stall 8 who tricked me into a crappy table cloth or random square of fabric. I should have looked at it before I left and not trusted what he put in the bag...."

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Katarina Petrinec

8 months ago

"This UNESCO World Heritage Site has some absolutely beautiful pieces. This place has bathrooms located on site and is an inexpensive visit. I quiteenjoyed visiting the outside however it is missing information what each statue and monument was about. It would have been very beneficial to learn and understand what we are looking at to preserve our history in the world. We really enjoyed our visit overall I still highly recommend history lovers to go visit as prices are great!..."

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The Memphis appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Cairo!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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