There are still no exact answers to many mysteries of world historical monuments. The breathtaking beauty of the unique echoes of antiquity and exciting adventures inside the pyramids attract tourists from all over the world. Everyone wants to touch a piece of something unknown.

Masterpiece of world history

pink pyramid, which occupies the third place in height, is located on the territory of the Dahshur necropolis. Unfortunately, not all stone giants have survived to this day, and it is all the more interesting to observe a historical monument that time has spared. It is called the most correct and perfect pyramid, which was built as an isosceles triangle.

Pink pyramid: interesting facts

There are several versions of scientists regarding the name of the ancient historical monument. Some believe that the original white limestone was removed for plastering rooms in Cairo, and as a result of this, a stone with an unusual delicate color was exposed. Others consider the version that the pyramid acquired such a feature over time: the rock, consisting of shells, crumbled under the influence of prolonged showers and sunlight, and now tourists observe the unique color of the structure that distinguishes it from others. By the way, many who visited the ancient place say that in fact, the pink pyramid in Egypt acquires such a bright shining shade only in the rays of the setting sun.

Interestingly, at the very base of the tomb, the white limestone lining is still visible, and the neighboring building looks untouched. Scientists cannot explain such oddities in any way.

Two tombs of Sneferu

It is believed that the history of the pyramid goes back to the reign of the pharaoh from the Sneferu dynasty. However, there is no exact answer, because scientists make such a conclusion based on several plates on which this name is engraved. Until now, archaeologists are struggling with the secrets of the burial of the pharaoh and the internal structure of the historical monument.

Interestingly, there are two pyramids of Sneferu: pink (northern) and white (southern). The latter is also called a broken line because of its strange shape, in which the top seems to be cut off, and the structure itself visually resembles a rhombus. The pink pyramid of Snefru is the world's oldest building built of massive blocks without the use of any mortar, which has preserved its original appearance to this day.

Mysteries of the tombs

One of the secrets that scientists have to unravel: why were two pyramids built at the behest of the pharaoh? After all, it was very difficult to build such massive structures, consisting of multi-ton blocks, in ancient times. Not every place was allowed to build burial complexes, the choice depended on many reasons and conditions. Giant giants keep history and are symbols of the greatness of the country. Archaeologists have an opinion that the pink pyramid was just started, but did not have time to complete Snefru, and his son, Cheops, finished erecting the ancient monument.

Findings of archaeologists

The pink pyramid has always attracted scientists, and in the 50s of the 20th century, archaeologists from Egypt discovered massive colonnades inside it, a huge lobby with a courtyard, and several statues of Pharaoh Snefru himself. Due to the fact that the constructions of the two tombs are technically verified, they did not collapse like many others, but for forty-six centuries they were reliably connected by their weight.

For exciting journey in the burial complex, tourists rise to a height of more than 20 meters. They get here as part of excursion groups or on their own by car from Cairo. Entrance to the tomb, by the way, is free, but there are certain restrictions on the number of visitors.

To be guaranteed to get to the necropolis, you should wake up early and come here in the morning. At this time, the sun's rays still do not burn so much. Need to stock up drinking water, because the journey is going to be exciting and difficult.

Local guides warn that the difficult path is not for small children, and it is best not to take them with you to the stone buildings. Before starting the hike, all tourists put on gauze bandages to protect themselves from the pungent smell of ammonia in the walls of the tomb. Those suffering from respiratory diseases and fear of closed space should stop at the sightseeing outside.

In front of the entrance to the tomb there is an interesting stone - a pyramidon, now restored, but previously split into pieces. According to the Egyptians, it has been preserved since ancient times and was located at the very top of the tomb. But scientists refute this version, believing that it is clearly small in size for such a huge ancient monument like a pink pyramid. A photo of the stone is shown below.

Historical monument tombs

The entrance to the oldest building begins with an extremely narrow corridor leading to three adjacent rooms - tombs. It is impossible to walk on it in full growth, therefore all movements are made only in a slightly bent position. Guides even offer to stock up on knee pads to periodically rest and not get your clothes dirty.

The elements located inside the premises keep traces of all archaeological excavations and minor cosmetic repairs. It is believed that the first two rooms, located at ground level, were made solely in order to protect the real tomb of the pharaoh, carved in stone, from robbers. You should not hope that you will see all kinds of jewelry and household items, because the pink pyramid, like all others, was looted. This is where the journey ends, you have to return through the same meter passage.

Many are still unsolved. Called to amaze with their unique beauties, they are priceless monuments of the world. Let's hope that the new generation will reveal inaccessible secrets, but for now let's enjoy the unique views of the masterpieces of the Ancient World.

The pink pyramid is called a unique building. After all, this building is the first attempt to build a classical pyramid, and its design also differs from the structure of the Great Pyramids of Giza. Unique Feature The pink pyramids are a low inclined degree of the walls, practically this pyramid can be called a regular isosceles triangle. And the Pink Pyramid is located in Dahshur, it is only 26 kilometers from Cairo. Stone giants are in this small village. Many pyramids used to be located here, however, only the Pink and Bent Pyramids have survived to this day. However, they are priceless. historical monuments. Note that the Pink Pyramid is called the most accurate and "correct" pyramid. Compare it with .

Features of the Pink Pyramid

Today, the Pink Pyramid ranks third in height, it is 104.4 meters. As for the name, the limestone of the pyramid during sunset has a pink tint, which is why it is called the Pink Pyramid. However, originally the pyramid was covered with white shining limestone. But in the Middle Ages it was removed, most likely for the construction of houses. Among tourists, the Dahshur burial complex is quite popular place. Therefore, the Pink Pyramid attracts to itself. In addition, there is no entrance fee, which increases its popularity. However, there is a high concentration of ammonia, so care must be taken. Very interesting for tourists.

The pink pyramid is distinguished by its unique construction technology and the resulting shape. By the way, the quality of construction can only be compared with the Bent Pyramid. The pink pyramid is not only an ancient, but also a mysterious structure. Experts still cannot solve the riddle of this pyramid. It is believed that the construction of the Pink Pyramid is associated with Pharaoh Sneferu. However, they only say so because facing slabs a couple of inscriptions were found, where the name of this pharaoh appears. Also this ancient building It is considered the largest structure of the Dahshur necropolis. Tourists are advised to visit

"Pink Pyramid"

The Northern, or “Pink” (less commonly referred to as “red”) pyramid of Dahshur is the first royal tomb of a regular stereometric pyramidal shape (although the angle of its side with an error is only 43 degrees 36 minutes, in contrast to later norms - 51 degrees 52 minutes) and its name is associated with the color of the facing stone, which turns pink in the rays of the setting sun. The entrance through the sloping passage on the north side descends into three adjoining chambers, all filled with stones and inaccessible. This pyramid was attributed to Sneferu because his name is inscribed in red paint on several blocks of sheathing.

Although the "pink" tomb is the first "true" pyramid, it is characterized by an extremely low slope of the walls (the base is 218.5 × 221.5 m at a height of 104.4 m). This is one of the most great pyramids, in size it is second only to the pyramids of Khufu and Khafre. The entrance through the sloping passage on the north side descended into three adjoining chambers, all filled with stones and inaccessible. This pyramid was attributed to Sneferu because his name was inscribed in red paint on several blocks of plating. The pyramids of Sneferu in Dahshur were an ensemble of similar and complementary buildings called Ha-Sneferu (“Shining Sneferu” or “Sneferu rises”).

Pyramids at Meidum and Sale

And, finally, the pyramid at Meidum (146 × 146 m, height 118 m). At the end of the 5th dynasty, the Meidum monument under the name of Djed-Sneferu functioned in parallel with the Sneferu mortuary complex in Dahshur, since, according to the papyrus from the Abusir archive, it was a supplier of products to the mortuary temple of King Neferirkare. The identification of Djed Snofru with the Meidum monument is confirmed by an inscription on a statuette of the Middle Kingdom - discovered in the eastern sanctuary - which mentions the gods that are in Djed Snofru. Numerous New Kingdom graffiti left in the same sanctuary show that Meidum became sacred place pilgrimages. The total volume of these pyramids (3,682,500 m3) far exceeds the volume Great Pyramid in Giza (2600,000 m3), which allows us to consider Snefru the greatest builder ancient kingdom.

As a result of excavations at the step pyramid, usually attributed to the 3rd dynasty, taking into account its stepped form, at Sale, located exactly 10 km. west of Meidum, on the eastern border of the Faiyum, the name Sneferu was discovered at the site of a religious building. Items cleared include a limestone stela with the Choir's name inscribed and a cartouche of Snefru, an alabaster figurine of the king, and an offering table with three round containers, also made of alabaster. This means that the pyramid of four, or even five steps in Sale was built in the time of Sneferu. Apparently, the step pyramid in Sale symbolized the supreme power of Sneferu near one of his residences, or was a cenotaph.

The various monuments of Sneferu in Dahshur, Meidum and Sale, with temples and roads, represent a gigantic volume of almost 4,000,000 m3 of stones. It follows that Snofru needed to get a large number of labor force, using peasants and captured Nubian captives. Sneferu fortified the kingdom and left it as a legacy to his son Cheops, who increased his father's achievements and reached the zenith of Old Kingdom architecture by building a pyramid on the plateau at El Giza.

At the same time, it is obvious that the Snefru construction program practically absorbed the entire labor force available in Egypt: it was necessary to bring in neighboring countries several thousand people to work on construction sites, and a colossal effort was required from the entire Egyptian people. Hundreds of thousands of animals were brought to Egypt to transport stones, as well as to feed the country. Despite this, Sneferu remained in the memory of the people as a "benevolent" king. Middle Kingdom literature and later tradition saw Snefru as the ideal ruler, extolling his wickedness in contrast to his son and successor, the despotic Khufu (Cheops). The existence of the cult of Sneferu is mentioned even under the Ptolemies.

The Dahshur necropolis is located 30 kilometers south of the city of Giza, respectively, 35 kilometers from Cairo. You can get here for 80-100 Egyptian pounds.

If you decide to come to Dahshur on your own, we strongly recommend that you pay the driver for a demurrage. It will be extremely problematic to catch a taxi back, it is better to pay 20 pounds to the driver to wait for you.

It is best to come to Dahshur with organized excursion. This is the cheapest, easiest and safest way.

Dahshur is the furthest necropolis of ancient Memphis, and there are few visitors. Of course, there have not yet been cases of kidnapping tourists here, but any such deserted place in Egypt is a potential danger to a foreigner.

The tour is also convenient because in one day you can see all the largest and most interesting pyramids in Egypt. You look, and the Dahshur necropolis. Tourists watch all this in one day and for only 50-60 US dollars. The tour is ideal.

Working hours

From 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

What's the cover charge

Entrance to the territory of the Dahshur necropolis costs 40 Egyptian pounds. Entrance inside the pyramid is free.

How much time to plan for a visit

One hour is enough to see everything interesting inside and out.

What is inside

Tourists can get inside freely and free of charge. On some sites on the Internet they write such phrases: “You can freely walk inside the pyramid.” The phrase sounds very funny, since the passage inside has a width of just over a meter and a height of about a meter.

The passage is about 60 meters long and slopes down at an angle of 27 degrees. If you are small in stature, then you can easily move around it crouching. Tall people have to squat, which is very difficult.

The descending passage gives way to a horizontal one about 10 meters long, and after it the first burial chamber begins, where you can finally straighten your back.

Conclusion. If you are tall (from 1.8 meters and above) and want to get inside the Pink Pyramid, then stock up on pants that you won’t be sorry to throw away. Or the second option - take with you the knee pads that skateboarders and roller skates use (photo). Then, in the process of movement, you will be able to kneel, and it will be much easier to move around.

The burial chamber is spacious. The most interesting thing for tourists here is a stepped ceiling 12 meters high. However, there is nothing more to see here, you can go to the second burial chamber.

A very narrow passage in the south wall leads to it. Outwardly, it is very similar to the first chamber, except for one element - a wooden staircase. This staircase was already built by modern archaeologists. Climbing up it, you will get to another passage that leads to the third burial chamber.

The second burial chamber has its own peculiarity - it is located exactly in the center of the pyramid, which is very rare. The first two chambers are at ground level, and the third is already laid out inside the masonry. Later, the idea of ​​organizing a burial chamber directly in the masonry was used and developed by Pharaoh Cheops, the son of Sneferu.

It was the third chamber that was supposedly used as the burial place of Pharaoh Sneferu. Three cameras were made to protect against robbers, that is, the first two of them were false.

Even such tricks did not help. Like all the pyramids of the Old Kingdom of Egypt, this one was completely robbed. This happened in the era of the First Intermediate Period - the moment of anarchy in when almost all ancient monuments suffered.

The third chamber is the largest in size, with a ceiling height of 15 meters. The floor of this cell is badly damaged, it is believed that the robbers were looking for other secret rooms.

This concludes the tour inside the Pink Pyramid. Now you have to go back through the same meter-high passage, but up. By the way, going up is easier, since even a tall person can move crouching.

Tourists are surprised that the walls of the passages and burial chambers are completely empty. There are no inscriptions, bas-reliefs or frescoes. The tradition of painting the walls of tombs appeared later - during the reign of the 5th dynasty.

The Greatest architectural monuments ancient egypt, including one of the "Seven Wonders of the World" - the pyramid of Cheops and an honorary candidate for the "new seven wonders of the world" - the pyramids of Giza. Pyramids are huge stone structures used as tombs for the pharaohs of ancient Egypt.

The Pyramid of Cheops (Khufu) is the largest of the Egyptian pyramids, the only one of the "Seven Wonders of the World" that has survived to this day. The pyramid consists of blocks of limestone, basalt and granite. It was built on a natural hill. The Pyramid of Khufu is the tallest and most voluminous of all the Egyptian pyramids. Initially, it was lined with white limestone, harder than the main blocks. The top of the pyramid was crowned with a gilded stone - a pyramidion. The cladding shone in the sun with a peach color, as if "a shining miracle, to which the Sun God Ra himself seemed to give all his rays." The entrance to the pyramid is at a height of 15.63 m on the north side. Entrance form stone slabs laid in the form of an arch. This entrance was sealed with a granite plug. Inside the pyramid of Cheops there are three burial chambers located one above the other.

Pyramid of Khafre (Khafra) - the second largest ancient Egyptian pyramid. It is located next to the Great Sphinx, as well as the pyramids of Cheops (Khufu) and Menkaure on the Giza plateau. Built presumably in the middle of the XXVI century. BC. the building, 143.5 m high, was called Urt-Khafra ("Khafra is great" or "Honored Khafra"). The side of the square base of the pyramid is 215 m, and the height is 136 m. When examining the pyramid of Khafre, tourists get the feeling that it is higher than its famous neighbor, the pyramid of Cheops. But actually it is not. The Pyramid of Khafre seems taller only because it stands on its own high place necropolis of Giza. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that it is the most compact building in the world. With a volume of 16,292,000 cubic meters, the free space of the pyramid is less than one hundredth of a percent!

The Pyramid of Menkaur (Mykerin) is the southernmost, latest and lowest of the three Egyptian pyramids at Giza. Contrary to the nickname "Heru" (high), it barely reaches 66 m in height, and the length of the side of its base is 108.4 m. Despite the small size of the pyramid, according to eyewitnesses, the pyramid of Menkaur was the most beautiful of all the pyramids. The potential of the builders was enormous, as evidenced by one of the monoliths used in the mortuary temple of Menkaur. Its weight has been estimated at over 200 tons. Putting in place a block of this size, the heaviest on the Giza plateau, was a true technical feat. The colossal statue of the seated king from the central chapel of the temple - one of the largest in the era of the Old Kingdom - is an excellent proof of the skill of the pharaoh's sculptors.

pink pyramid

The Pink Pyramid (Northern) is the largest of the three large pyramids located on the territory of the Dahshur necropolis. The name is associated with the color of stone blocks, which acquire a pink color in the rays of the setting sun. It is the third tallest pyramid in Egypt, after Khufu and Khafre in Giza. The pink pyramid did not always have its current color. Previously, its walls were covered with white limestone. But at present, white limestone is almost completely absent, because. even in the Middle Ages, a significant part of it was removed for the construction of houses in Cairo, as a result of which pinkish limestone was exposed. The Northern Pyramid at the time of its construction in the 26th century. BC. was the tallest building on earth. It is also considered the world's first successful attempt to build a "real" isosceles pyramid - it has the correct stereometric pyramidal shape. The Pink Pyramid should be visited with caution due to the strong smell caused by the concentration of ammonia in its premises.

broken pyramid

The Bent Pyramid (South) is an Egyptian pyramid in Dahshur, the construction of which is attributed to Pharaoh Sneferu (XXVI BC). The southern pyramid is called "broken", "cut" or "rhomboid" for its irregular shape. It differs from other pyramids of the Old Kingdom in that it has an entrance not only on the north side, which was the norm, but also a second entrance, which is open higher, on the west side. The pyramid contains two actually unrelated systems of premises - Upper and Lower. The passage between them was broken after construction through the layers of masonry. south of broken pyramid at a distance of 55 m there is a small pyramid (or satellite pyramid). It is assumed that it was created for the soul of the pharaoh. The initial dimensions of the small pyramid: height-26 m (now 23 m), side length - 52.8 m. This pyramid has one feature - numerous red lines of an unknown nature protrude on the walls and floor. The location of the premises in the satellite pyramid resembles their location in the pyramid of Cheops. Here an ascending corridor precedes the gallery, and at the end of the gallery there is an entrance to the burial chamber. This is the only satellite pyramid of such a large size and with such a complex system of arrangement of internal chambers.