Djer

Djer was the third ruler of the First Dynasty, reigning from about 3000 to 2955 BC, with dates subject to an uncertainty of approximately fifty years. He succeeded his father, Hor-Aha, and governed Egypt from the royal capital of Memphis during a period of sustained administrative growth.

His rule is associated with a rock inscription far to the south at Wadi Halfa, indicating early Egyptian activity near the First Cataract region. Djer was buried at Umm el-Qa'ab in Abydos within Tomb O, a substantial mud-brick tomb surrounded by hundreds of subsidiary burials for royal retainers. Later Middle Kingdom Egyptians identified this tomb as the mythical burial place of the god Osiris.

Scholars identify Djer through contemporary clay jar stoppers, inscribed wood and ivory labels, and his entry on the Palermo Stone. He was succeeded by Djet.

Monuments

• Tomb O at Abydos
• Wadi Halfa rock inscription

Explore further

Try the name on the Cartouche Desk, or see where the reign falls on the timeline.