The
Central City is the religious and administrative heart of Akhetaten.
Here, the pharaoh worships the Aten and dispenses his wisdom for
the benefit of his people.
Amazement
will accompany you as you read about the wonders of this city by
clicking on the links below.
The
House of the Sun-Disk
This
magnificent temple, unparalleled in Egyptian history, is the largest
temple in Akhetaten. It measures 2,500
feet long and 750 feet wide. Within is a vast open courtyard
filled with tables on which worshipers of the Aten and the pharaoh
may place their offerings. To build this awe-inspiring building
as well as other stone structures in Akhetaten, workers used a revolutionary
construction
system.

The
Great Palace
The
Great Palace is the largest palace in Akhetaten, covering
more than 162,000
square feet. Here, in an immense courtyard open to the
life-giving rays of the Aten, the pharaoh and the great royal
wife receive delegations. Within the palace, floors painted
with brightly colored images of the plants and animals of
Egypts marshes captivate the mind and praise the Atens
bounty. The building also houses the pharaohs harem
and administrative offices.
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The
Kings House
Connected
to the Great Palace by a bridge is the Kings House, an administrative
center. The Mansion of the Sun-Disk, which serves as a royal chapel,
is attached. Nearby is the House
of the Correspondence of the Pharaoh, a records building.
The
Royal Road
The
Royal Road, which runs parallel to the east bank of the river, connects
the North Riverside Palace with the House of the Sun-Disk, the Mansion
of the Sun-Disk, and the Kom-el-Nana, a temple dedicated to Queen
Nefertiti. Those who wish to receive the blessings of "The
One Who Serves Aten" should position themselves along the road
as the pharaoh and the royal family ride in the royal chariot to
the temples.
Oth er
Facilities
Also
located in the Central City are
- an
open-air market
- wharves
- military
and police barracks, with housing for horses and chariots
- storehouses
for the grain and other products brought to the city
South
of the House of the Sun-Disk and the Great Palace are workshops
for the production of wine and beer, glassware, pottery, textiles,
and bricks. Of special interest is the workshop of Thutmose,
Overseer of Works and Sculptor, who serves as the pharaohs
hands in creating the New Art.
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The
Royal Tomb
The
Royal Tomb is being carved into a cliff east of the city. Imaginary
lines, like the rays of the Aten, link the tomb with the House of
the Sun-Disk, the Great Palace, the Mansion of the Sun-Disk, and
a number of the stelae that mark the boundaries of the city.
To
learn more about Akhetaten, click on Egypts
Greatest City.
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