Teti
There is a close resemblance between Teti and his predecessor, Unas, in many ways. However, the plan of Teti's pyramid was new and innovative.
Teti was the first pharaoh in ancient Egypt's Sixth Dynasty. He is less commonly known as Othoes. From evidence gathered by historians from various sources, it is believed that Teti reigned for 12 years. It is also said that Teti married Iput, the daughter of Unas. Unas was the last King of the 5th dynasty and preceded Teti. Apart from Iput, Teti had several other wives, and the names of different queens are mentioned in different places.
The Building of Funerary Monuments
During the reign of Teti, the high officials built different funerary monuments rivaling the monuments of the pharaoh. The most enormous known tomb was of King Mereruka at Saqqara,
comprising 33 carved rooms. It was a clear sign that the wealth of Egypt was slowly getting transferred from the central court to the officials. The King was, however, murdered by his bodyguards and was buried in the necropolis of Saqqara.
One of the significant reasons that resulted in the Old Kingdom's disintegration was the growing power and wealth of officials.
The Building Of Funerary Monuments
It is important to note that no marked change was evident in the reign of Teti after the reign of the last King of the 5th dynasty. A cemetery of large tombs was built around this King's pyramid, including several viziers. In fact, with many tombs near the pyramid of Unas, it is considered the largest cluster of private monuments of the Old Kingdom. Many inscriptions and texts were also found on these monuments that give evidence to the facts.
The Pyramid of The King
The Pyramid of the King is located in Saqqara. This smooth-sided pyramid contained many texts. Different excavations at the site also traced the evidence of a satellite pyramid and two queen pyramids. Furthermore, these were accompanied by funerary temples and cult structures. The pyramid was opened, and the complex was explored to gather different pieces of evidence. The preservation above the ground could be better; currently, it resembles a tiny hill. However, the chambers and corridors below the ground are very well preserved.
Following A Model: Teti's Pyramid
The pyramid complex of Teti follows a model established during the reigns of kings in the 5th dynasty. Moreover, the arrangements are inherited from the funerary complexes located at Abusir. The valley temple is now lost and was probably damaged in antiquity in the place of an Old Kingdom temple. However, a better funerary temple was discovered, connecting the valley temple through a causeway. The plan of his temple can also be compared to the temple of Unas in many ways. However, Teti's temple has a special and unique plan, which is not evident in any other temples constructed before him.
