𓋹 Pharaoh Archive

Period of ancient Egypt

Middle Kingdom Egypt

c. 2055–1773 BCE

The Middle Kingdom began with the reunification under Mentuhotep II and reached its height in the 12th Dynasty. Kings ruled from Itjtawy, brought the provinces back under central control, developed the Faiyum and built fortresses in Nubia.

It is regarded as a classical age of Egyptian literature and art. The 13th Dynasty continued the state for a while under weaker kings, before the country divided in the Second Intermediate Period.

Key themes

11th Dynasty of Egypt

2125–1985 BCE

The 11th Dynasty began as a regional Theban house under the Intef kings, who extended their control in Upper Egypt during the First Intermediate Period.

Read the full 11th Dynasty guide →

12th Dynasty of Egypt

1985–1773 BCE

The 12th Dynasty is the classic phase of the Middle Kingdom.

Read the full 12th Dynasty guide →

13th Dynasty of Egypt

c. 1773–1650 BCE

The 13th Dynasty followed the 12th and ruled from Itjtawy for roughly a century and a half.

Read the full 13th Dynasty guide →