A pharaoh was the title given to the ancient rulers of Egypt. They were considered both political and religious leaders, believed to be the intermediaries between the gods and the people. Pharaohs were responsible for maintaining order, overseeing construction projects, and leading military campaigns. Pharaohs were often buried in elaborate tombs, such as the famous pyramids, to ensure a safe passage to the afterlife. They were typically depicted in art and hieroglyphs wearing a crown, symbolizing their authority. The most well-known pharaohs include Tutankhamun and Ramses II.