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Sonchis of Sais

d. 550 BC

6th century BC Egyptian priest

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About Sonchis of Sais

Sonchis of Sais was a priest.

Sonchis of Saïs or the Saïte (, Sō̂nkhis o Saḯtēs; BC) was an Egyptian priest, who is mentioned in Greek writings for relating the account of Atlantis. His status as a historical figure is a matter of debate.

The Platonic dialogues Timaeus and Critias, written around 360 BC, recount (through the voice of Critias) how the Athenian statesman Solon (638–558 BC) traveled to Egypt and in the city of Sais encountered the priests of the goddess Neith. A very aged priest tells him that 9000 years earlier, Athens had been in conflict with the great power of Atlantis, which was then destroyed in a catastrophe.

Plato's dialogue does not mention a name for the priest, but Plutarch (46–120 AD), in his Life of Solon identified the aged priest as Sonchis:

Plutarch gives a more detailed description on the Greek philosophers who visited Egypt and received advice by the Egyptian priests in his book On Isis and Osiris. Thus, Thales of Miletus, Eudoxus of Cnidus, Solon, Pythagoras, (some say Lycurgus of Sparta also) and Plato, traveled into Egypt and conversed with the priests. Eudoxus was instructed by Chonupheus of Memphis, Solon by Sonchis of Saïs and Pythagoras by Oenuphis of Heliopolis.

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Important facts

Born
Egypt
Died
550 BC
Occupation
Also known as
Sonchis the Saïte

Frequently asked questions

Who was Sonchis of Sais?

6th century BC Egyptian priest

When was Sonchis of Sais born?

Sonchis of Sais was born in Egypt.

When did Sonchis of Sais die?

Sonchis of Sais died in 550 BC.

What was Sonchis of Sais's occupation?

Sonchis of Sais was a priest.

Sources & further reading

· Wikipedia: Sonchis of Sais

· Wikidata: Q3964694

· DBpedia: Sonchis of Sais

Cite this page

APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Sonchis of Sais. https://biography.guide/sonchis-of-sais/

MLA: "Sonchis of Sais." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/sonchis-of-sais/.

Chicago: "Sonchis of Sais." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/sonchis-of-sais/.

Data last updated: 2026-09-20 · Spot an error? Report a correction.

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