The name "Upper Egypt" comes from the ancient Egyptian term "Ta Shemau", which means "Land of the South". This name was used to refer to the region because it was located upstream from the Nile Delta, which was known as "Ta Mehu" or "Land of the North".
Upper Egypt has a long and rich history, dating back to the Predynastic Period of ancient Egypt (c. 5500-3100 BC). During this time, the region was home to a number of important cultural and political centers, including the cities of Hierakonpolis, Abydos, and Thebes.
In the Old Kingdom period (c. 2686-2181 BC), Upper Egypt was the center of political power in Egypt. The pharaohs of this period built many of the great temples and tombs that are still standing today, including the Giza pyramids and the Luxor Temple.
During the Middle Kingdom period (c. 2055-1650 BC), Upper Egypt continued to be an important region, but the center of political power shifted to the north. Nevertheless, the region remained a center of cultural and religious activity, and many important temples and tombs were built during this time.
In the New Kingdom period (c. 1550-1070 BC), Upper Egypt once again became the center of political power in Egypt. The pharaohs of this period, such as Ramses II and Tutankhamun, built many of the great temples and tombs that are still standing today, including the Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings.
After the New Kingdom period, Upper Egypt declined in importance, and the center of political power shifted to the north. However, the region continued to be an important cultural and religious center, and many important temples and tombs were built during this time.
Today, Upper Egypt is a popular tourist destination, and many people visit the region to see its ancient temples, tombs, and other historical sites. The region is also home to a number of important agricultural centers, and it is an important part of the Egyptian economy.