The city of the dead, Qubbet El Hawa, actually translates into “Hill of Wind”, which could have been a reference to its location. The necropolis is the site of over 40 tombs. 14 of these were identified as noble members of the island Elephantine that can still be found anchored at the centre of the Nile River to this day. Vivid hues of red, blue and yellow found within restored tombs add a touch of life to this final resting ground. The open tombs give visitors a glimpse into the final rites of nobles passing on as they were accompanied by pottery and wooden models resembling funerary boats and scenes of ordinary life. Hunting trips and monumental events within the city’s borders were dug into hard rock but are no longer visible after enduring years of merciless winds and heat. The dusty grounds appear barren, a monotonous brown from afar. But these sands preserve the last vestiges and clues of life 3000 years ago. In fact, recent finds from March 2017 date the necropolis back even earlier to 1830BC. Standing on the sandy promontory, it’s easy to feel the depth of history soaked into these grounds. That aside, the site isn’t just a city of death but a great viewing platform to capture the rustic charm of Aswan. Wrapped by the embrace of the Nile, Aswan is an enchanting sight that would have been fitting as a final image to be carried to the ground by the nobles of Egypt.