Necropolis is the term used to describe a large ancient cemetery with elaborate tombs and monuments. They are often associated with the ancient civilizations of Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Greek and Roman empires. Necropolises were usually built near major cities, and were often used to house the remains of important members of society, such as kings and queens. Necropolises were also a way to memorialize the dead, as the tombs often included inscriptions and art to remember the deceased.
History
The first necropolis was built in Egypt in the 4th century BCE. It was a large cemetery on the west bank of the Nile River. This necropolis was used to bury the dead of the royal family and those of the upper classes. It was also used to house the mummies of the pharaohs. As the Egyptian civilization flourished, more necropolises were built in different parts of the country. Some of the most famous ones include the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens.
The Greeks and Romans also built their own necropolises, although they were more like city cemeteries. The Greeks and Romans believed that the souls of the dead could still interact with the living, so the necropolises were designed to be accessible and inviting. These cemeteries were often decorated with sculptures and monuments, and they often included a large gate or entrance.
Types of Necropolises
Necropolises come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some of the most common types include:
- Charnel Houses: Charnel houses were used to store the bones of the dead, usually in the form of a crypt or chamber. They were typically built near churches or cathedrals, and were used to house the remains of those who had been buried in the cemetery.
- Mausoleums: Mausoleums were large, elaborate tombs built to house the remains of a single individual. They were often built in the form of a temple, and were usually decorated with sculptures and inscriptions. They were usually built by wealthy families in order to honor their dead.
- Colombariums: Colombariums were used to store the ashes of the dead. They were typically built in the form of a wall, with niches to store the ashes. They were often decorated with sculptures and inscriptions.
Modern Necropolises
Today, necropolises are still used in many parts of the world. They are often used to house the remains of those who have died, as well as to memorialize them. Some of the most famous modern necropolises include:
- Pere Lachaise Cemetery: Located in Paris, France, Pere Lachaise is one of the most famous necropolises in the world. It is home to the remains of many famous figures, including Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Edith Piaf.
- Arlington National Cemetery: Located in Arlington, Virginia, this cemetery is the final resting place for many of the United States’ most honored military personnel. It is also the burial place of President John F. Kennedy.
- Hollywood Forever Cemetery: Located in Los Angeles, California, this cemetery is the final resting place for many of Hollywood’s most famous stars, including Humphrey Bogart, Jayne Mansfield, and Douglas Fairbanks.
Conclusion
Necropolises have been around for centuries, and they are still used today to memorialize the dead. From the ancient Egyptians to the modern day Hollywood stars, these cemeteries are a way to remember and honor those who have passed away.
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