Ozetta
Dutch news, in your languageThursday, 24 September 2026No. 16,716

Science

Woman May Have Ruled as 'King' Over Ancient Egypt 5,000 Years Ago

NU.nl22 September · 18:491 day ago

Researchers from universities in Prague and Bucharest have identified Meretneith as a potential ruler of ancient Egypt around 5,000 years ago, predating previous assumptions by a millennium. Using digital imaging on clay seals found eighty years ago, they discovered her name within royal serekh symbols, indicating she held the title of 'king' rather than merely 'queen.' This suggests Meretneith possessed full sovereign power, possibly ruling jointly with her father Djer and later assuming control when her son Den was a minor. Her status is further supported by her elaborate tomb in Abydos, which included numerous wine jars and servant graves, marking her as one of history's earliest female monarchs.

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Science