The main function of the ancient stelae in Egypt was to commemorate important events or individuals, often serving as grave markers or public monuments. These upright stone slabs were inscribed with hieroglyphs, detailing significant achievements, decrees, or genealogies of pharaohs and nobles. Stelae frequently functioned as memorials, honoring the deceased and ensuring their legacy endured within the public consciousness. They also played a role in religious practices, marking places of worship or significant ceremonial events, thus reinforcing the power of the state and the divine authority of rulers in ancient Egyptian society.