The Capitals of Lower Egypt

24 Apr 2025
by Hannah Pethen

During the long course of Egyptian history, various Delta cities functioned as the capital or preeminent city of the whole country. Most of these cities were important places for much of Egyptian history, and were also regional capitals at various points. During periods of decentralisation these cities often formed the core of small local polities, ruled by local kings. When those local rulers acquired sufficient power and prestige to reunite the country, their home city would often rise to great prominence.