The Ancient Greeks Became Fascinated with Ancient Egypt (Video)
Ancient Greece's engagement with Ancient Egypt is a remarkable tale of cultural exchange. Greek influence in Egypt resulted in a captivating fusion of traditions. Along Egypt's Mediterranean coast, where Alexander the Great founded Alexandria, Greeks and Egyptians intertwined their cultures to the point where it was challenging to distinguish between them. This harmonious blending extended to the realm of religion, where Greek gods, like Zeus, were associated with their Egyptian counterparts.
The Greeks wholeheartedly embraced Egyptian customs, creating a dynamic and flexible worldview. The enduring power of Egypt's ancient religion became evident through this convergence. Egyptian culture, often compared to a cultural tsunami, left an indelible mark on the Greeks who encountered it. The Greeks' fascination with Ancient Egypt showcased the adaptability of their culture, as they absorbed and embraced the profound traditions of this ancient civilization. This cultural exchange highlights the lasting allure of Egypt's rich heritage.
- Last of the Kings of Egypt: The Ptolemaic Dynasty
- Egyptian Alexandria - Ancient underwater finds revealed the Pharaonic roots of the Ptolemaic City
Top image: Hermanubis, a syncretism of Hermes from Greek mythology and Anubis from Egyptian mythology. Source: Rafel Miro / Flickr.
