Attraction Guide: Black Pyramid, Dahshur, Egypt

Black Pyramid Guide

The Black Pyramid: A Crumbling Giant with a Story to Tell Guide

Venture off the beaten path and discover the Black Pyramid, a unique and somewhat enigmatic structure located in Dahshur. Unlike its more famous counterparts, the Black Pyramid stands out due to its dark, crumbling appearance, a testament to the challenges faced by its builders and the passage of time. While it may not be as visually impressive as the Red Pyramid, the Black Pyramid offers a fascinating glimpse into the experimentation and innovation of ancient Egyptian pyramid construction. The Black Pyramid was built by King Amenemhat III during the Middle Kingdom (c. 19th century BC). It was originally intended to be his final resting place, but due to structural problems, he later built another pyramid at Hawara. The pyramid's dark color comes from the mudbrick used in its core, which has deteriorated significantly over the centuries. This deterioration, combined with the pyramid's steep slope, led to its partial collapse and its current, somewhat ruined state. Despite its dilapidated condition, the Black Pyramid is still worth a visit for those interested in ancient Egyptian history and architecture. While entering the pyramid is generally not permitted due to safety concerns, you can still explore the surrounding area and admire the pyramid's unique design and construction. Imagine the challenges faced by the builders as you observe the remaining structure. The surrounding desert landscape adds to the pyramid's mystique and provides a sense of isolation and tranquility. As with the Red Pyramid, there are no specific culinary traditions directly associated with the Black Pyramid, but you can find local Egyptian cuisine in nearby towns and villages.