As an expert in ancient civilizations, I can share some insights into the leisure activities of the Pharaohs of ancient Egypt. The Pharaohs, like many rulers throughout history, enjoyed a variety of pastimes that were often a mix of the practical, the ceremonial, and the purely recreational.

Board Games
One of the most well-documented forms of entertainment for the Pharaohs was playing board games. As you mentioned, senet and mehen were two such games.
Senet is indeed one of the oldest known board games, with its origins dating back over 5,000 years. It was a game of strategy and chance, and its exact rules are still a subject of debate among historians. The game was so integral to Egyptian culture that it was often depicted in tombs and on funerary objects, suggesting that it was believed to have a role in the afterlife. Pharaohs were often buried with their senet boards, indicating that they expected to continue playing in the next world.

Mehen
The game of mehen was another favorite among the elite, including the Pharaohs. It is a more enigmatic game, with its rules and gameplay less well understood than senet.
Mehen is often depicted as a game played by the gods and was thought to symbolize the struggle between good and evil.

Music and Dance
Music and dance were also important forms of entertainment. Pharaohs would have had musicians and dancers perform at their courts. The music was often religious in nature, accompanying ceremonies and rituals, but it also served an entertainment function. Dance was a significant part of these performances, with both men and women participating.

Hunting and Fishing
Outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing were popular pastimes. These activities were not only for leisure but also served as a way to demonstrate the Pharaoh's prowess and connection with nature. Hunting expeditions could be quite grand affairs, with the Pharaoh leading a group of nobles and soldiers in pursuit of game.

Chariot Racing
Chariot racing was another activity that the Pharaohs might have enjoyed. Chariots were a symbol of status and power, and racing them would have been an exciting and dangerous sport. The Pharaohs would have used these events to showcase their skill and courage.

Gardens and Pleasure Parks
The Pharaohs also had access to beautifully landscaped gardens and pleasure parks. These were places where they could relax and enjoy nature. The famous Hanging Gardens of Babylon, though not in Egypt, were known throughout the ancient world and are an example of the kind of opulent gardens that rulers, including Pharaohs, might have enjoyed.

Art and Literature
Lastly, the Pharaohs were patrons of the arts. They would have commissioned and enjoyed works of art, literature, and architecture. The creation of these works was not only a form of cultural expression but also a way for the Pharaohs to leave a lasting legacy.

In summary, the Pharaohs' leisure activities were diverse and reflected their status, interests, and the cultural norms of ancient Egypt. From intellectual games to physical pursuits, their pastimes were a blend of the refined and the robust.

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The Ancient Egyptians liked to play board games for fun. Two of the most popular board games were senet and mehen. The game of senet is thought to be over 5000 years old. It was so popular that many pharaohs were buried with senet boards so they would have something to do in the afterlife.read more >>