Ancient Egypt was ruled by kings called pharaohs. Egyptians believed that the pharaoh was a child of the gods and a god himself. Structures, called pyramids, were sometimes built as monuments over the tombs of pharaohs. Inside the tomb were carved records of important deeds, and wall paintings, sculptures, food, furniture, and other items needed for the afterlife. The pyramid also contained chambers where relatives were buried and a variety of passageways.