Akhmim Egypt 2025 – Discover the Ancient City of Min and Hidden Treasures of Sohag
Akhmim, located in the Sohag Governorate on the east bank of the Nile, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Egypt. Known in ancient times as Ipu or Khent-Min, it was a vital religious and administrative center, primarily dedicated to the fertility god Min. Its historical significance, spiritual legacy, and archaeological wealth make Akhmim a must-visit destination for history lovers and cultural travelers in 2025.
The city reached its peak during the Pharaonic periods, particularly in the New Kingdom and Greco-Roman eras. Temples dedicated to Min and other deities were constructed here, and Akhmim became a hub for sculpture and religious art. Today, remnants of these structures can still be seen, including massive statues and the ruins of the Temple of Ramesses II.
One of the key highlights of Akhmim is the Open-Air Museum (Akhmim Egypt), which displays large statues, stelae, and artifacts recovered from ancient temple sites. The colossal limestone statue of Meritamen, the daughter of Ramesses II, is one of the most impressive relics discovered in the region.
In addition to its temples and monuments, Akhmim is also known for its traditional weaving industry, which dates back to Pharaonic times and continues today. This blend of ancient heritage and living tradition makes the city a vibrant example of Egypt’s layered history.
Moreover, Akhmim is a gateway to nearby historical sites such as the Cimetières Hawawish, le White and Red Monasteries, and other ancient necropolises. Its relatively untouched charm and fewer crowds make it an ideal off-the-beaten-path destination in Upper Egypt.
In 2025, Akhmim is gaining more attention from archaeologists and tourists alike, offering a rich cultural experience that rivals more famous Egyptian sites while maintaining a peaceful and authentic atmosphere.
Akhmim is the capital of the ninth region of Upper Egypt. In ancient times, it was known as Khent-Min and during the Greek era as Panopolis. It is one of the oldest and most ancient Egyptian cities, with a history spanning over 6,000 years. The city was famous for its linen weaving.
The archaeological site of Akhmim lies beneath the modern city and is one of the most significant locations. The Temple of Ramses II was uncovered here, which according to Herodotus, was surrounded by a stone wall and two massive statues. In 1981, part of the temple and a huge statue of Ramses’ daughter Meritamun were excavated. In 1991, a seated statue of Ramses II was revealed, and the area was turned into an open-air museum, although parts of it remain buried under the modern city buildings.
La statue de Méritamon, fils de Ramsès II et de la reine Néfertari, est considérée comme la plus haute statue antique jamais découverte. Elle a été reconstituée en 1988. Sa beauté lui a valu le surnom de « Statue de la Mariée ». Réalisée en calcaire, elle présente encore des traces de peinture rouge, bleue, noire, jaune et brune. L'artiste a mis en valeur les traits du visage de Méritamon, sculptant de grands yeux, un nez pointu et un menton arrondi. Elle porte une perruque nouée dans le dos, ornée d'un double bandeau orné de deux serpents et d'une double couronne, ainsi qu'une couronne choti sur la tête. La statue est ornée de deux plumes publiques sur un socle circulaire orné de rangées du symbole de la « Grande Vie » et d'un disque solaire.
La reine est parée de bijoux, dont des boucles d'oreilles, un collier sur la poitrine et de larges bracelets aux bras. En 2019, le ministère des Antiquités a mené un projet de restauration et, en six mois, l'équipe a réussi à réériger la statue de Ramsès II à côté de celle de sa fille Méritamon.
Cette statue, découverte en 1981, a été brisée en plus de 70 morceaux. Les plus gros morceaux comprenaient la tête sans la couronne, une partie du cou, la poitrine, l'abdomen, le vêtement royal, un morceau d'un genou, un poing et plusieurs parties du pilier dorsal gravé. La statue est en calcaire, mesure environ 12 mètres de long et pèse plus de 45 tonnes. Elle représente le roi Ramsès II debout, la jambe gauche en avant, vêtu de la tenue royale habituelle, ses titres étant gravés sur le pilier dorsal.