Memphis was an ancient city located in Lower Egypt, near the site of modern-day Cairo. It was founded around 3100 BC and was the capital of Egypt during the Old Kingdom. The city was dedicated to the god Ptah and was renowned for its great temple complex, which included the Temple of Ptah, the Temple of Hathor, and the Temple of Apis. Memphis was also a major center for commerce, with its strategic location on the Nile River providing easy access to the Mediterranean Sea and beyond. The city declined in importance after the New Kingdom and was eventually abandoned, although some structures and artifacts have been preserved and are now on display in the nearby city of Saqqara.