Gebel al-Mawta, Siwa Oasis
Gebel al-Mawta or Mountain of the Dead is neither ghoulish nor ghastly yet a tour of this ancient necropolis is likely to appeal to teen and tween's with a fascination for all things macabre. Even if bones no longer litter this honeycombed hill. The rock-cut tombs found here date from the 26th dynasty (roughly 6000 BC) through the end of the Roman era and all bear resemblance to ancient Egyptian burial practices. To date, there is no evidence that Christianity ever reached this outpost. Of significance are the Tomb of Niperpathot, Tomb of the Crocodile, Unfinished Tomb of Mesu-Isis and Tomb of... Read More Si-Amun for their magnificent and well-preserved wall paintings. One final note, Siwans took refuge in the tombs at various points in history and, today, avoid it after dark. Gebel al-Mawta is rumored to be haunted.
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Getting There
Gebel al-Mawta is located roughly 1 kilometer north of Siwa's main square and is easily reached by foot, bike or careta (donkey cart).
Admission & Fees
An entrance fee is charged. A guardian accompanies all visitors and opens the gates of the locked tombs. He will expect a tip when you are done.
Things to Keep in Mind
Take care when walking this honeycombed hill; the roofs of the tombs under your feet have holes both small and big.
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