Mereruka's Mastaba is the largest mastaba (flat-topped tomb) in Saqqara, best known for its interior reliefs and murals.

History of Mastaba of Mereruka

The mastaba dates from the 6th Dynasty (2323-2150 BC) in the Old Kingdom period. It was built for Mereruka, the vizier to Pharaoh Teti (whose pyramid is next door), his wife Watethathor and his son Meryteti.

Excavations of Mereruka's Mastaba began in 1892 under Jacques de Morgan.

What to See at Mastaba of Mereruka

The mastaba contains 32 rooms, decorated with painted reliefs of everyday Egyptian life: fishing, hunting, metalworking (with dwarfs), sailing, and force-feeding animals, including a hyena. A standing statue of Mereruka emerges dynamically from a niche, marking the center of his cult and the place for offerings.

Kagemni's Mastaba adjoins the mastaba of Mereruka and is also well-decorated; probably by the same artist since similar scenes appear in both.

Quick Facts on Mastaba of Mereruka

Site Information
Names:	Mastaba of Mereruka
Country:	Egypt
Categories:	mausolea; World Heritage Sites
Styles:	Ancient Egyptian
Dedication:	Mereruka
Dates:	c. 2200 BCE
Status:	monument
Visitor and Contact Information
Coordinates:	29.875969° N, 31.221014° E
Address:	Saqqara, Egypt
Hours:	Daily 8-4
Lodging:	View hotels near Mastaba of Mereruka

Note: This information was accurate when first published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours and prices can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip.

References

1. Mereruka's Mastaba - Fodors.com
2. The Mastaba for Mereruka - The Pyramids of Egypt
3. Mereruka Mastaba - OsirisNet

More Information

• Photos of Mastaba of Mereruka - here on Sacred Destinations