Tomb-Builders of the Pharaohs

by Morris L. Bierbrier

This fascinating study brings to life the people who lived and died at Deir el-Medina over three thousand years ago--the workers who built the tombs of the pharaohs in the nearby Valley of the Kings. Dr. Bierbrier draws on the thousands of documents, letters, literary texts, and drawings found at the site to give an intimate glimpse of life in the village.

Genres: History, Egypt, Egyptology, Nonfiction

160 pages, Paperback

First published December 31, 1982

Reviews

[Diana Wilder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bringing an important group of people to vibrant life

This is an excellent source book on the village of Deir el Medina. This village housed the workers on the tombs in the Valley of the Kings and the rest of the Theban Necropolis. The people were an unusual group, gifted artists and craftsmen for the most part, working there for generations. This book gives a history, outlines what we know of the group, follows specific characters, and does it well. (Morris Bierbrier writes well.)

Along with Romer's book Ancient Lives, this is perhaps the best book on Deir el Medina.

[Rob Roy · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love reading about Ancient Egypt, you will love this book. If not, don't bother. I found it fascinating, as it gives a view of the nonroyal people and the Egyptian culture. These were the people who decorated the tombs of the Pharaohs. Not only do we have the remains of their town, but we have their tombs, and even documents. It is a fascinating look into a long-ago time.

[Mark Dickson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really enlightening book on the everyday people, with little nuggets of pharaonic drama to add a bit of context.

[Yanik · Rating 3 out of 5]

Short and informative.
A quick intro to the site and its highlights. Crisp but nicely flowing writing style. A bit dated now perhaps but enjoyable and a good stepping stone.