Definition & Bedeutung von "false door"

What is a "false door"?

A false door is a decorative feature found in ancient Egyptian tombs, often located on the walls of burial chambers. Although it appears to be a doorway, it does not lead anywhere and serves no actual function as a passage. Instead, the false door symbolizes a gateway to the afterlife, allowing the spirit of the deceased to enter and exit the tomb. These doors are typically elaborately carved and may include inscriptions, scenes, or images of the deceased and offerings. False doors played a significant role in ancient Egyptian funerary practices, reflecting beliefs about the connection between the living and the spiritual world.