Mereruka's Mastaba is the largest mastaba (flat-topped tomb) in Saqqara, best known for its interior reliefs and murals.

History

The mastaba dates from the 6th Dynasty (2323-2150 BC) in the Old Kingdom period. It was built for Mereruka, the vizier to Pharaoh Teti (whose pyramid is next door), his wife Watethathor and his son Meryteti.

Excavations of Mereruka's Mastaba began in 1892 under Jacques de Morgan.

What to See

The mastaba contains 32 rooms, decorated with painted reliefs of everyday Egyptian life: fishing, hunting, metalworking (with dwarfs), sailing, and force-feeding animals, including a hyena. A standing statue of Mereruka emerges dynamically from a niche, marking the center of his cult and the place for offerings.

Kagemni's Mastaba adjoins the mastaba of Mereruka and is also well-decorated; probably by the same artist since similar scenes appear in both.

Quick Facts

Location Map

Below is a location map and aerial view of Mereuka's Mastaba. Using the buttons on the left, zoom in for a closer look or zoom out to get your bearings. Click and drag the map to move around.

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