Pyramids of Meroë
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Spread across several sites throughout the country, Sudan has the largest collection of known pyramids in the world. As of now, there are approximately 200 pyramids and temples that date back about 5,000 years. These pyramids are located in the northern part of Sudan, which at one point was considered southern Egypt.
It is believed the Nubian pyramids found in Sudan were constructed by the rulers of the ancient Kushite Kingdom, who are known as the "Black Pharaohs." These pyramids |
are monuments to kings and queens, along with wealthy individuals. The burial chambers are actually located approximately 10 meters (about 33 feet) below the pyramids, but at ground level, each pyramid had a single room attached to it that was filled with inscriptions on the walls. Today, some of these hieroglyphics are still visible.
The North Cemetery site (pictures bellow) in Meroë houses approximately 41 pyramids. It is presumed that other structures, not yet discovered, might still be buried here under the sands of the Sahara Desert. Although work to restore this area has been underway for many years, there is still a lot to be learned and done here. For instance, most of the pyramids at this site no longer have their pointed tops. This is in part due to Giuseppe Ferlini, an Italian explorer who in the 1880s blew up the tops looking for treasure. Because of the intentional damage caused by Giuseppe, some restoration efforts are focused on giving the pyramids their original tops back.
The "forgotten" pyramids of Sudan are an amazing piece of history and we are very thankful for opportunity to visit. Although it was hot and the landscape is rough, the sites are beautiful and the people are kind. This area leaves a lot to the imagination when attempting to recreate the sites and sounds from 5,000 years ago when the Pyramids of Meroë were active.
The North Cemetery site (pictures bellow) in Meroë houses approximately 41 pyramids. It is presumed that other structures, not yet discovered, might still be buried here under the sands of the Sahara Desert. Although work to restore this area has been underway for many years, there is still a lot to be learned and done here. For instance, most of the pyramids at this site no longer have their pointed tops. This is in part due to Giuseppe Ferlini, an Italian explorer who in the 1880s blew up the tops looking for treasure. Because of the intentional damage caused by Giuseppe, some restoration efforts are focused on giving the pyramids their original tops back.
The "forgotten" pyramids of Sudan are an amazing piece of history and we are very thankful for opportunity to visit. Although it was hot and the landscape is rough, the sites are beautiful and the people are kind. This area leaves a lot to the imagination when attempting to recreate the sites and sounds from 5,000 years ago when the Pyramids of Meroë were active.
Just because the story is finished, does not mean the adventure is. We have additional content down below, along with an interactive comment section at the bottom of the page. Feel free to stay with us a little longer and continue your journey through the Pyramids of Meroë.
Sources: Wikipedia.org | Intro.africa | Phys.org
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