Pharaoh Akhenaten of ancient Egypt ordered his people in the city of So’oud Aten to seal up their homes and move to a new location to worship a single god. This led to a quick exodus, leaving behind a variety of artifacts now being recovered by archaeologists. The city was recently discovered and dubbed the “lost golden city” due to its thriving nature during Egypt’s golden age. The site is surrounded by historical monuments and provides insight into the daily life of the people, including well-off artisans and craftsmen. Important discoveries such as administrative buildings have been made in recent months. Akhenaten’s ruling established a monotheistic religion, although some argue he was more of a henotheist, and was inspired by his father, Amenhotep III.
Queen Nefertiti, Akhenaten’s wife, likely walked the streets of the city alongside him. The move to worship a single god led to a “religious revolution” in Egypt. After Akhenaten’s death, the city was used by other pharaohs including Tutankhamun. The citizens’ feelings about leaving their original homes remain unclear, but it is believed they sealed their doors in hopes of returning. Despite the mysteries surrounding the city, it provides important historical information and artifacts shedding light on ancient Egyptian life. Akhenaten’s ruling and subsequent move to a new city were significant events in Egyptian history that shaped religious beliefs during that time.
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