Djet

Djet ruled Egypt as the fourth pharaoh of the First Dynasty, reigning from approximately 2955 to 2940 BC, though dates for this early era carry an uncertainty of about fifty years. He succeeded his father, Djer, and ruled the country from Memphis, leaving behind evidence of continued state administration.

His reign was comparatively short, likely lasting around fifteen years. Djet married Merneith, who would go on to hold supreme authority during the youth of their son and successor, Den. Djet was interred in Tomb Z at Umm el-Qa'ab near Abydos, a mud-brick burial complex that followed the standard layout of early dynastic royal tombs.

Scholars know Djet mainly through jar sealings, labels found at Abydos, and his renowned limestone funerary stela. Discovered at his burial site, this monument features a remarkably detailed carving of a Horus falcon perched above a serpent within a serekh palace facade.

Monuments

• Stela of Djet (Louvre)
• Tomb Z at Abydos

Explore further

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