Memphis was the first capital of unified Egypt in the Old Kingdom and the sacred city of the creator-god Ptah. Its remains survive today as an open-air museum in the village of Mit Rahina, south of Cairo, and form the core of the UNESCO World Heritage site 'Memphis and its Necropolis' (inscribed 1979). The highlights are a roughly 10-metre reclining colossus of Ramesses II, viewed from an upper gallery, and a monumental New Kingdom alabaster sphinx. In 2026 the site remains an active dig - a joint Egyptian-Chinese mission recently uncovered new structures - and it is usually combined with nearby Saqqara and Dahshur as a half-day outing.
The reclining limestone colossus of Ramesses II - a finely carved masterpiece about 10 m long, best seen in full from the building's upper viewing platform
The alabaster sphinx - one of the largest single-stone monuments of the New Kingdom (18th Dynasty), roughly 8 m long and about 80 tons
The western gateway of the Great Temple of Ptah, a colossal Ramesses II-era ruin marking Memphis as the centre of Ptah worship
The embalming temple of the sacred Apis bull, linked to the bull cult continued at nearby Saqqara's Serapeum
The open-air lapidarium of 60-plus statues, sarcophagi and columns displayed near where they were found, within their original landscape
Good to know
SeasonThis is an open site with almost no shade. In summer (June-August) midday heat approaches 40C, so visit early morning and bring a hat, sunscreen and water. November to March is the most comfortable season.
RulesLast entry is generally one hour before closing. Phone photography is usually free, but tripods and professional cameras may need a separate photo ticket, and most Egyptian sites now prefer card payment over cash. Confirm current hours and fees before you go.
CautionPeople near the entrance may offer a 'free guide' or to take your photo, then demand a tip. Decline politely and firmly from the start if you are not interested.
CautionTaxi, carriage and camel touts routinely overcharge if the price is not fixed first. Use Uber or Careem in Cairo, and agree the full round-trip and waiting fare in advance.
MannersThis is a Muslim country; covering shoulders and knees is respectful, and it helps to carry small notes for tipping (baksheesh) at restrooms or for minor help.
SafetyThe road from Cairo toward Saqqara can involve chaotic traffic; travel in daylight, and stay outside fenced excavation areas within the site.
Practical info
Memphis lies about 20-30 km south of central Cairo at Mit Rahina (Al-Badrashin, Giza Governorate); it is not on the metro or rail network, so reach it by taxi or tour vehicle, usually paired with Saqqara and Dahshur on a half-day trip. Opening hours are roughly 8:00-17:00 (last entry one hour before closing), with foreign-adult tickets sold through Egypt's official portal (egymonuments.com) - always verify current prices and hours before visiting.
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