Long ago, a great civilization thrived along the banks of the Nile River. Ruled by awesome godkings called pharaohs, Egypt was a land of bustling cities, golden palaces, and huge stone monuments. This astonishing culture endured for more than 3,000 years before it gradually disappeared. Its cities crumbled to dust, and the meaning of its writings was lost. But beginning with the discovery of the Rosetta Stone in 1799, the secrets of Egypt's people, its pharaohs, and its golden days have slowly been revealed. Bit by bit, we have solved the mystery of one of the most fascinating civilizations of all time.