Naqa (also spelled as Naga'a) is an ancient city located in modern-day Sudan, about 30 km north of the city of Khartoum. It was one of the most important cities in the Kingdom of Kush, an ancient Nubian civilization that ruled from around 800 BCE to 350 CE.
Naqa was a major center for iron production and trade, and was also known for its agriculture, particularly the cultivation of sesame and cotton. The city was a hub for trade between the Kingdom of Kush and other civilizations, such as Ancient Egypt and the Roman Empire.
One of the most impressive structures at Naqa is the Temple of Amun, which was built in the 1st century BCE. The temple is notable for its well-preserved decorations, including colorful reliefs depicting scenes from the lives of gods and pharaohs. Another important structure at Naqa is the Temple of Apedemak, a lion-headed god who was worshiped in Nubia.
Naqa was largely abandoned by the end of the 4th century CE, likely due to a combination of factors such as climate change, economic decline, and political instability. Today, the ruins of Naqa offer a glimpse into the sophisticated culture and architecture of the Kingdom of Kush, and are a popular destination for tourists and archaeologists.