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While the Old Kingdom was the age of the pyramids, the Middle Kingdom was the age of the rock cut mortuaries and temple complexes. The First Intermediate Period was brought to an end with the rise of Mentuhotep II. This powerful nomarch rose to the throne and re-consolidated the lands of Egypt which had broken up into pieces. The beginning of the Middle Kingdom was tumultuous and filled with bitter family feuds and internal rivalries. The throne of a unified Egypt was once again up for grabs and Egypt never had a shortage of ambitious men and women. The Karnak Temple began it's construction during this time and it would become one of if not the most preeminent holy site in the lands of the Nile. We see a stark shift in theocratic focus and religious zeal during the Middle Kingdom as well, it seems that the gods themselves became the center point of worship and not the "God Kings" who were worshiped during the Old Kingdom. Hope you enjoy!