What do you think?
Rate this book
Treasures of Egypt: A Legacy in Photographs From the Pyramids to Cleopatra
Drawing from National Geographic's unparalleled photo archive, the images in this breathtaking volume celebrate the vibrant beauty and rich cultural heritage of Egypt on the 100th anniversary of the discovery of King Tut's tomb.
Egypt’s rich history astonishes us again and again with priceless treasures, exquisite craftsmanship, and a bounty of artifacts that enables us to envision the past with extraordinary detail. It is an epic saga 5,000 years in the making, and one that National Geographic has covered for more than a century.
This magnificent book, published to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the discovery of King Tut’s tomb, portrays the hallowed country’s most remarkable achievements, viewed through decades of discovery chronicled in National Geographic magazine. From the breathless opening of King Tut’s tomb in 1922 to the astonishing find of perfectly preserved boats, entombed for eternity near Giza’s pyramids, here is the story of a proud and dynamic empire that changed the world; its colossal architecture and imposing statues force us to re-think the engineering limitations of the world before modern tools were available.
Documenting a series of incredible discoveries―including a complex of royal graves filled with dazzling gold artifacts at the ancient city of Tanis, intriguing clues to the life and times of Cleopatra, and newly uncovered traces of Alexandria, Abydos, and other fabled sites― Treasures of Egypt embodies the culture’s most fascinating historical milestones. Filled with vivid photographs, revealing time lines, and profiles of major explorers in the field, this exquisite book will inform and inspire.
Egypt’s rich history astonishes us again and again with priceless treasures, exquisite craftsmanship, and a bounty of artifacts that enables us to envision the past with extraordinary detail. It is an epic saga 5,000 years in the making, and one that National Geographic has covered for more than a century.
This magnificent book, published to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the discovery of King Tut’s tomb, portrays the hallowed country’s most remarkable achievements, viewed through decades of discovery chronicled in National Geographic magazine. From the breathless opening of King Tut’s tomb in 1922 to the astonishing find of perfectly preserved boats, entombed for eternity near Giza’s pyramids, here is the story of a proud and dynamic empire that changed the world; its colossal architecture and imposing statues force us to re-think the engineering limitations of the world before modern tools were available.
Documenting a series of incredible discoveries―including a complex of royal graves filled with dazzling gold artifacts at the ancient city of Tanis, intriguing clues to the life and times of Cleopatra, and newly uncovered traces of Alexandria, Abydos, and other fabled sites― Treasures of Egypt embodies the culture’s most fascinating historical milestones. Filled with vivid photographs, revealing time lines, and profiles of major explorers in the field, this exquisite book will inform and inspire.
400 pages, Hardcover
Published October 18, 2022
2 people are currently reading
3111 people want to read
About the author
National Geographic Society
4,221 books1,111 followersThe National Geographic Society (NGS), headquartered in Washington, D.C., United States, is one of the largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations in the world.
Founded in 1888, its interests include geography, archaeology, and natural science, the promotion of environmental and historical conservation, and the study of world culture and history. The National Geographic Society's logo is a yellow portrait frame—rectangular in shape—which appears on the margins surrounding the front covers of its magazines and as its television channel logo. Through National Geographic Partners (a joint venture with The Walt Disney Company), the Society operates the magazine, TV channels, a website, worldwide events, and other media operations.
Founded in 1888, its interests include geography, archaeology, and natural science, the promotion of environmental and historical conservation, and the study of world culture and history. The National Geographic Society's logo is a yellow portrait frame—rectangular in shape—which appears on the margins surrounding the front covers of its magazines and as its television channel logo. Through National Geographic Partners (a joint venture with The Walt Disney Company), the Society operates the magazine, TV channels, a website, worldwide events, and other media operations.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
April 17, 2025
Egypt—the land of sun, sand and stone. It forever remains mysterious and so tempting as it effortlessly lures you in. It has been speculated that only 30% of Egypt’s history has been excavated. That sounds like such a small amount. It is exciting discovering hidden tombs with their untold treasures. Yet, on the other hand, I sometimes wonder if these sacred burial sites and their occupants should be left alone in peace. This book is “a visual history of one of the world’s oldest and most intriguing civilizations.” I love the First Photos that were rare exposing sites before they were excavated. A favorite was the nighttime photo of the Valley of the Kings—ethereal in appearance. Beautiful bright photographs.
The discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922 was the beginning of the world’s love affair with Ancient Egypt. His funeral mask is striking. I didn’t know he had three nested coffins that encased his mummy. Each one just as elaborate as the next. His coffin was solid gold weighing 243 pounds. Whoa. King Tut had unimaginable wealth. I was surprised to find out that he was buried with 5,000 personal effects. Wow. My wedding ring has the most value. I may just have my clothes, a wooden box, and maybe a photo with my family and a good book.
The Egyptian customs and beliefs of the afterlife are so interesting. I was fascinated learning that 14 boats from a fleet had been buried for a first dynasty king’s use in the afterlife. Also, 6 servants had been buried at the enclosure and 34 more at his tomb. That was nothing compared to the next king who had 269 at the enclosure and 300 at his tomb. I’m sure it would not be heaven for those servants.
The importance of the Nile was undeniable not only in its use for transportation and food but in its key role in unifying the country. There were impressive restorations of temples from the 1800’s. Colossal statues like that of Ramses II. I felt it was an apt word for the description as it is huge and awe-inspiring. It is astounding seeing countless hieroglyphics covering every inch of surface. I can’t imagine the time it took to carve it all. Intricately painted ceilings of the Greco-Roman temple are amazing. At one point I had to wonder “Why are so many of these carvings of naked people? Wouldn’t they have been clothed in that scorching sun for protection? They’re gonna burn their tenders.”
Clips:
At the risk of sounding immature, there is a rather unfortunate picture of a worker holding a device inside of one nostril of a huge stone face of King Ramsey‘s II. Couldn’t the photographer had waited a moment until he moved onto another area of the face?
For the last 3 decades a French archaeologist has been exploring the underwater ruins of the sunken cities of Egypt. I am mostly interested in Alexandria. It could be the discovery of a lifetime…Cleopatra’s tomb. So far, they have found remnants of temples, colossal statues, jewelry, coins, ceramics and so forth.
SPOILER—King Tut’s mummified face is shown unmasked—morbidly fascinating.
Ancient Egyptians had the belief that “the great beyond featured all the beautiful aspects of life on earth without any of its unpleasantness. To make sure they had access to everything enjoyable during their eternal journey, they were buried with an array of items. King Tutankhamun had food and furniture, luxuries and fresh linen underwear.” I find that funny that he had clean underwear. Hey, it’s important throughout the ages.
The discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922 was the beginning of the world’s love affair with Ancient Egypt. His funeral mask is striking. I didn’t know he had three nested coffins that encased his mummy. Each one just as elaborate as the next. His coffin was solid gold weighing 243 pounds. Whoa. King Tut had unimaginable wealth. I was surprised to find out that he was buried with 5,000 personal effects. Wow. My wedding ring has the most value. I may just have my clothes, a wooden box, and maybe a photo with my family and a good book.
The Egyptian customs and beliefs of the afterlife are so interesting. I was fascinated learning that 14 boats from a fleet had been buried for a first dynasty king’s use in the afterlife. Also, 6 servants had been buried at the enclosure and 34 more at his tomb. That was nothing compared to the next king who had 269 at the enclosure and 300 at his tomb. I’m sure it would not be heaven for those servants.
The importance of the Nile was undeniable not only in its use for transportation and food but in its key role in unifying the country. There were impressive restorations of temples from the 1800’s. Colossal statues like that of Ramses II. I felt it was an apt word for the description as it is huge and awe-inspiring. It is astounding seeing countless hieroglyphics covering every inch of surface. I can’t imagine the time it took to carve it all. Intricately painted ceilings of the Greco-Roman temple are amazing. At one point I had to wonder “Why are so many of these carvings of naked people? Wouldn’t they have been clothed in that scorching sun for protection? They’re gonna burn their tenders.”
Clips:
At the risk of sounding immature, there is a rather unfortunate picture of a worker holding a device inside of one nostril of a huge stone face of King Ramsey‘s II. Couldn’t the photographer had waited a moment until he moved onto another area of the face?
For the last 3 decades a French archaeologist has been exploring the underwater ruins of the sunken cities of Egypt. I am mostly interested in Alexandria. It could be the discovery of a lifetime…Cleopatra’s tomb. So far, they have found remnants of temples, colossal statues, jewelry, coins, ceramics and so forth.
SPOILER—King Tut’s mummified face is shown unmasked—morbidly fascinating.
Ancient Egyptians had the belief that “the great beyond featured all the beautiful aspects of life on earth without any of its unpleasantness. To make sure they had access to everything enjoyable during their eternal journey, they were buried with an array of items. King Tutankhamun had food and furniture, luxuries and fresh linen underwear.” I find that funny that he had clean underwear. Hey, it’s important throughout the ages.
November 2, 2022
I was completely floored when I received this huge coffee table-size book. I was attracted to it right immediately and began reading through and looking in awe at the artifacts and legends that coincide with some of the extraordinary pieces. There are pictures of actual places such as the temple at Qasr el-Ghueida that are breathtaking that also give you information about its background.
It is a book of beauty, learning and appreciation of some of the finest treasures. Learning how the Hieroglyphic Code was cracked led to progressing a more complete understanding of the messages.
I’ve been a big fan of National Geographic, since the days of sitting at my Grandparent's home and reading the collection of books they had; that taught me so much at an early age. And 40 years later, they are here continuing to teach me and show me pictures of places I’ve never been before. This book is somewhere to put in a part of your home where it can be a focal point of conversation and admiration. It is a collective beauty in itself and something to proudly display. A must-buy!
It is a book of beauty, learning and appreciation of some of the finest treasures. Learning how the Hieroglyphic Code was cracked led to progressing a more complete understanding of the messages.
I’ve been a big fan of National Geographic, since the days of sitting at my Grandparent's home and reading the collection of books they had; that taught me so much at an early age. And 40 years later, they are here continuing to teach me and show me pictures of places I’ve never been before. This book is somewhere to put in a part of your home where it can be a focal point of conversation and admiration. It is a collective beauty in itself and something to proudly display. A must-buy!
January 27, 2023
Anyone with even just a small interest in Ancient Egypt should read this one. Beautiful, large, coffee table book with great pictures as only National Geographic can do along with lots of information. Recently published so it's up to date with what is going on with Egypt's antiquities....as in a new billion $ museum called the GEM - Grand Egyptian Museum, set to open in 2023 where all of King Tut's antiquities are being moved from the Cario Museum. A must see on anyone's bucket list.
January 29, 2024
Wow, what an incredible collection of photographs. Every single one tells a story and it's impressive to think about the rich history that Egypt has. The book is organized mostly by area and somewhat chronologically with tidbits about archaeologists and the gods and goddesses thrown in. Great coffee table book, fun to flip through or to read end to end.
July 8, 2023
Beautiful photographs ranging over time, giving a brief history of a long-histories ancient land, the jewelry and the mummified animals (birds?) was especially interesting, reading about some of the ritual and daily life at the various times in Ancient Egyptian eras
September 19, 2023
I received a copy of this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. It's not only gorgeous but very educational. I appreciated the maps so that I could see where the different treasures were discovered. Beautiful book!
December 5, 2022
Great as a coffee table book. Beautiful high quality photos of artifacts and tidbits of details about them scattered throughout
January 4, 2023
Absolutely stunning.. Its beautiful and I also learned so much.
January 9, 2023
Loved the pictures and information. It is great to see more than the few items highlighted in history books.
February 23, 2024
I would love to see this history in person.
September 2, 2025
The photographs are amazing as if I was there. I plan to visit in May 2026 for birthday, dream vacation trip.
Pyramids and to see the legacy photos is quite an adventure.
Leisure read
Pyramids and to see the legacy photos is quite an adventure.
Leisure read
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews