THIRTIETH DYNASTY OF EGYPT Meaning and
Definition
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The Thirtieth Dynasty of Egypt refers to a specific period in ancient Egyptian history that lasted from approximately 380 BCE to 343 BCE. This dynasty marked the reign of rulers known as the "Pharaohs" of the Thirtieth Dynasty. The dynasty came to power following the invasion and conquest of Egypt by the Persians, specifically the Achaemenid Empire, which was under the rule of king Artaxerxes III.
During the Thirtieth Dynasty, Egypt experienced a resurgence of traditional Egyptian culture and religious practices. The pharaohs of this period actively promoted the worship of traditional Egyptian deities and attempted to restore ancient rituals and traditions that had been diminished during foreign rule.
One of the most prominent pharaohs of the Thirtieth Dynasty was Nectanebo I, who successfully defended Egypt against several Persian invasions and attempted to strengthen Egyptian independence. Nectanebo I is particularly remembered for his ambitious building projects, including the completion of the Temple of Isis at Philae and the restoration of the Great Sphinx at Giza.
The Thirtieth Dynasty eventually came to an end when the Achaemenid Empire, now under the rule of Artaxerxes III's successor, invaded Egypt once more and succeeded in overthrowing the last Egyptian pharaoh, Nectanebo II. The end of the Thirtieth Dynasty marked the beginning of the Persian domination of Egypt, which would continue until the conquest of Egypt by Alexander the Great in 332 BCE.
