This dynasty was founded around 800 BC by Padibastet when the royal house of the 22nd Dynasty split in two. After a period when both dynasties appear to have ruled together over Egypt, conflicts broke out between the two royal houses. This resulted in the 23rd Dynasty gaining control over parts of the Delta, Middle Egypt and the God's State of Thebes, with the 22nd Dynasty keeping control over Bubastis and Memphis. The western Delta was partly lost to the control of Libyan tribes as a result. Padibastet's successor was Osorkon III who installed Takelot III as High Priest of Thebes, but by this time the position of High Priest had lost most of its power. The kings of Kush invaded Thebes and regarded themselves as the legitimate kings of Egypt.