The Third Intermediate Period of ancient Egypt lasted from around 1070 to 664 BCE, following the end of the New Kingdom. This era is characterized by political fragmentation, with power divided among various local rulers and foreign invaders, including the Libyans and Nubians. The central authority weakened, leading to a decline in monumental building and artistic production. During this time, the Twenty-First Dynasty emerged, with its capital in Tanis. The period also saw the rise of the Kushite dynasty in the south, which would later conquer Egypt. Despite the political instability, religious practices continued to flourish, and tomb construction remained significant.