Limestone
A soft, light-colored rock made from tiny sea shells and skeletons, often used for carving.
What is it?
Limestone is a sedimentary rock formed from the remains of marine organisms. It is relatively soft and easy to carve, making it a popular material for sculpture and architecture. Ancient Egyptians used limestone for many things, including pyramids, temples, and funerary stelae. The stele of Thutmose you saw is made of limestone. Limestone can be white, gray, or yellow, and it often contains fossils.
Why it matters
Limestone was one of the most important building and carving materials in ancient Egypt. Many famous monuments, like the Great Pyramid of Giza, are made of limestone. Understanding limestone helps you appreciate the materials used in ancient art.
Where you've seen it
This list grows as you capture more exhibits made of limestone.
