Kleopatra

His main residence was the royal palace in Alexandria, one of the richest and most cosmopolitan cities in the Mediterranean. The complex included:

Huge gardens

Libraries and study rooms

Private temples

Spaces for theatrical receptions and banquets

A royal navy, since the palace was next to the port

Pharaoh

Intelligent and cultured: she spoke several languages ​​(as many as nine, it's said), including Egyptian, something her ancestors didn't usually learn. She was trained in philosophy, mathematics, and science.

Charismatic and persuasive: more than her physical beauty (which the Romans exaggerated or ridiculed), she stood out for the magnetism of her personality, her voice and her ability to convince.

A skillful and pragmatic politician, he was able to ally himself with Caesar and later with Mark Antony to protect his kingdom. His decisions were calculated to maintain Egypt's independence from Roman power.

Astute in seduction: she used charm as a political tool, not just as an intimate relationship. She was theatrical, surrounded by luxury, with impressive stage performances (such as when she appeared before Caesar wrapped in a carpet).

Proud and determined: she defended her position as pharaoh, had herself represented as a living goddess, and sought the greatness of Egypt.

(1.50–1.60 m tall).

Frequent bathing: They often bathed in the Nile or in their homes. The wealthy (like Cleopatra) had private baths, with systems of jugs and containers. Body cleanliness was a sign of prestige.

Perfumes and oils: These were widely used. Since the climate was dry and hot, they applied aromatic oils to moisturize their skin and enhance their scent. Perfume was part of their personal identity.

Hair removal: Both men and women often waxed or shaved their bodies. Hair was seen as unattractive and unhygienic. Cleopatra herself is always depicted with a clean shave.

Makeup with a health function: the famous khol (black eyeliner) was not just aesthetic: it also protected against eye infections and sun glare.

Clean, light clothing: Linen tunics and dresses were washed frequently, because the desert heat and dust made them dirty quickly.

Teeth: They used abrasive pastes made of pumice, salt, myrrh, or even ground eggshell to clean. Although it didn't completely prevent wear, it did provide some insight into dental hygiene.

Aromas in the environment: resins and incense were burned at banquets and rituals to help mask odors.

Cereals: Bread (made from wheat or barley) was the basis of the Egyptian diet. Finer, whiter bread was eaten at court.

Fruits: dates, figs, pomegranates, grapes, melons. Many of these were served fresh or dried at banquets.

Vegetables and legumes: lentils, chickpeas, broad beans, cucumbers, onions, leeks.

Meat: Not common among the common people, but Cleopatra and the elite did have frequent access to beef, lamb, goat, and poultry (ducks, geese, pigeons).

Fish: widely consumed, fresh from the Nile or salted for preservation.

Dairy products: milk, cheeses and yogurts, but not in excess.

Honey: its main sweetener (cane sugar did not yet exist in that area).

Olive and sesame oil: for cooking and dressing.

Wine: Egypt produced wine, but imported wine from Greece was considered more prestigious. Cleopatra also used it in luxury rituals (the famous legend of the pearl dissolved in vinegar, although this is surely an exaggeration).