The World's Largest Pyramid Site Isn't in Egypt and It's Twice the Size. [View all]

By
Adnan Rasheed
Published 14 days ago • 4 min read



When people think of pyramids their minds often jump to Egypt’s grand structures such as the Great Pyramid of Giza or the towering monuments of the pharaohs. However what many don’t realize is that the world's largest collection of pyramids isn’t in Egypt at all. Instead it lies hidden in the vast deserts of Sudan. The ancient Kingdom of Kush a powerful civilization that once rivaled Egypt built more than twice as many pyramids as their northern neighbors. Yet despite their historical significance these pyramids remain relatively unknown to the world.


The Lost Kingdom of Kush


The Kingdom of Kush centered in modern day Sudan flourished for over a thousand years from around 1070 BCE to 350 CE. It was a powerful civilization with deep cultural economic and political ties to Egypt. At times the Kushites even ruled over Egypt forming the 25th Dynasty of pharaohs known as the Black Pharaohs. Despite their influence the Kushites developed their own distinct identity and their architectural achievements including their pyramids stand as a testament to their greatness. Unlike Egyptian pyramids which are massive and widely spaced the pyramids of Kush are smaller steeper and more numerous. Over 200 pyramids have been discovered in Sudan primarily in three major sites Meroë Nuri and El Kurru. These structures were used as royal tombs for Kushite kings queens and high ranking officials reflecting the civilization’s beliefs in the afterlife and its reverence for its rulers.


Meroë: The Largest Pyramid Field


The most famous of Sudan’s pyramid sites is Meroë which served as the capital of the Kingdom of Kush from around 300 BCE to 350 CE. Located approximately 150 miles north of Sudan’s capital Khartoum Meroë is home to over 50 pyramids clustered in a relatively small area. These pyramids are made of sandstone and brick and while they are much smaller than those in Giza their sheer number makes them extraordinary.

Meroë was a thriving trade hub connecting Africa with Egypt and the Mediterranean world. The Kushites controlled vital trade routes, exporting gold ivory ebony and exotic animals. This wealth enabled them to construct the impressive pyramids that still stand today. The Meroitic pyramids were influenced by Egyptian styles but had unique features, such as narrow bases sharp angles and decorative elements that showcased a blend of African and Egyptian artistry.


Nuri and El-Kurru Burial Grounds of Kushite Kings


Another significant pyramid site in Sudan is Nuri, where many of the Kushite kings including the great Pharaoh Taharqa were buried. Taharqa was one of the most powerful rulers of the 25th Dynasty of Egypt and his pyramid at Nuri is one of the largest in Sudan. The pyramids at Nuri differ from those at Meroë because they are older and have suffered more damage over time yet they still hold immense historical importance. El Kurru is another ancient Kushite burial site dating back to the early days of the kingdom. Some of the earliest Kushite rulers were buried here including King Piye the founder of the 25th Dynasty in Egypt. The tombs at El Kurru contain intricate wall paintings and hieroglyphic inscriptions revealing the spiritual and cultural beliefs of the Kushites.

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