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Amarna

One of the most fascinating episodes of Egyptian history is the so-called Amarna period when pharaoh Amenhotep (or Amenophis) IV of the 18th dynasty re-named himself Akhenaten, and together with his wife Nefertiti initiated the first monotheistic religion in the history of mankind. Around 1346 BCE they moved the capital of Egypt from Thebes to a new place called Akhetaton, or "Horizon of the Aton", today known as Amarna. Akhenaten replaced the traditional plethora of Egyptian gods with a single sun-god, Aton. He was considered the creator the Universe and always depicted as a sun disc with many rays ending in outstretched hands.

With religious practice the style of Egyptian art significantly changed: depictions became more realistic, for example showing the royal couple playing with their children. This new approach made a lasting impression, while Akhenaten's new religion was short-lived. After his death, his capital was abandoned within a few years. His son Tutankhaton moved to Memphis, changed his name to Tutankhamun, and restored the old religion.

Akhenaten and Nefertiti: Royals, but Very Human