Egyptian pyramids. "Pink Pyramid Pink Pyramid Cairo

01.04.2015

On the territory of the Dahshur necropolis in Egypt there are three large pyramids, of which the largest is the Pink one. It is believed that the pyramid received its name because of the color given to its edges by the sun's rays. If you look closely, you can really notice - not bright pink, of course, but a slightly pinkish tint.

It was originally white because its walls were covered with white limestone, which has not survived. This is not surprising when you consider how many centuries have passed since the creation of the huge architectural structure - Pharaoh Snefru, who is credited with building the giant tomb, reigned in the 27th century BC! The structure, which is in honorable third place in height after the pyramids of Cheops and Khafre, was made in compliance with all necessary proportions.

It is considered to be the world's first even isosceles pyramid. Why is the Pink Pyramid dated back to the reign of Sneferu? No specific evidence has yet been found, except that the name of this ruler of Egypt was inscribed in red paint on the walls of the structure. Translated, it means “Created Flawlessly” or “Perfect Work” - this rightfully refers to the pyramid itself.

The entrance is located at an altitude of about 30 meters. Inside, an inquisitive researcher will find three rooms. And, by the way, any guest of Egypt can become such a researcher - since the 90s. last century, the pyramid was opened to visitors. A narrow, square-shaped tunnel leads visitors down to three chambers. As many as 63 meters of underground galleries must be overcome to get to the place of the pharaoh’s last earthly refuge.

Theoretically, there should have been a sarcophagus in one of the chambers, but it was never discovered. But one of the researchers who carried out the excavations found a wooden coffin here, and in it - someone’s skeleton. It is clear that the skeleton could not belong to the pharaoh, and the Egyptians never buried their almighty rulers in simple wooden coffins, which means that all these remains are traces of a later time. Where could the sarcophagus and mummy have disappeared to? So far this is one of the mysteries of the pyramid.

The second mystery is why Sneferu built himself three pyramids? Pink is the northernmost of them. Maybe he didn’t like something during the construction process, and he decided to proceed with the second construction? It is currently difficult to answer this question. Perhaps in the future scientists will “get to the bottom” of the truth. We can just take a trip to the Pink Pyramid and go inside. This is a truly unique opportunity to plunge into the atmosphere of past centuries.

And in the literal sense - over the past millennia, due to the lack of opportunity for fresh air to penetrate inside, today in the passages and chambers there is a strong smell of ammonia, which can cause irritation of the respiratory tract. The “ventilation” passages are now being cleaned, but a lot of work is still required there. If you are not frightened by such trifles, then welcome to visit the ruler Ancient Egypt, to his last earthly home.

Pink pyramid- the third tallest pyramid of ancient Egypt and the tallest among all the buildings of the southern necropolis, located near Dahshur, 26 km. from Cairo. The first capital of united Egypt, Memphis, was located nearby.

Sneferu, the great builder of Egypt

The construction of the Pink Pyramid dates back to XXVI BC, the time of the reign of Pharaoh Snofru, father of Cheops (reigned 2613-2589 BC). His name appears several times on the walls of the pyramid premises and parts of facing slabs found nearby. Sneferu became famous as a statesman, a talented military leader, he led large-scale construction throughout the country and remained in the memory of subsequent generations as an ideal ruler. But his main merit to his descendants is the beginning of the construction of huge pyramids of a classical form, while the previous ones were stepped and much smaller in size.

In general, during the reign of Snefru, the construction of two pyramids began, the Rose and the Broken, also located near Dahshur. Scientists have not yet given an answer to the question of why the pharaoh needed to build two tombs.

Snefer is also credited with building the step pyramid at Medum. He actually expanded and completed this tomb, but its construction was conceived and started under his predecessor Huni.

What is a pyramid

The pink pyramid is the most regular and perfect structure of this type, an almost exact geometrically isosceles triangle. This gives it amazing harmony. Its height is 104.4 m, the dimensions of the base are 218.5 x 221.5 m. Externally, the Pink Pyramid is noticeably different from its relatives by the lower slope of the edges - 43°22" versus the 51°-52" later adopted as a standard. The total volume of construction is 1,694,000 cubic meters. At the time of completion of construction it was the most high building in the world.

The pyramid got its name from the color of the stone it was made of - in the rays of the setting sun the blocks turn pinkish. But this is not a consequence of the architect's plan. Initially, the edges were lined with white limestone slabs, but in the Middle Ages almost all of the cladding was removed and used to build houses in Cairo. Only a small number of slabs near the surface of the earth have survived. The main material of the pyramid has a natural pinkish tint.

Interior

The entrance to the tomb is at a level of about 28 m. Near the entrance there is a stone, which, according to the Egyptians, is a restored pyramidion, which crowned the entire structure in ancient times. However, scientists reject this possibility, since the size of the stone is too small for such a huge monument as the Pink Pyramid.

From the entrance, a narrow and low descending corridor 62 meters long leads deep into the pyramid. Its height and width are a little more than a meter. The passage leads to three successive chambers, two of which are at ground level, and the third is deep in the masonry. The ceilings of the first two chambers are stepped, tapering upward, their height is 12 meters. The chambers are connected by low, narrow passages, which were apparently hidden in ancient times. Many researchers believe that the two chambers were designed to divert the attention of robbers from the third, the real burial room of the pharaoh. It is much more spacious than the first two, and the ceiling height reaches 17 meters.

However, all precautions turned out to be unnecessary, since, according to archaeologists, no one was ever buried in the Pink Pyramid, and it was completed during the reign of Cheops, 10 years after the death of Snefru. But, one way or another, the robbers got to the third cell, the floor of which was badly damaged. Apparently, the attackers were looking for other secret premises. This could have happened in the 23rd century BC, during a period of anarchy, when almost all significant tombs were looted Ancient kingdom.

Some written sources claim that the original plan called for the construction of an entire burial complex, similar to the one built at the Bent Pyramid. It is even reported that a funeral temple was erected, but archaeologists did not find any traces of it. But the Pink Pyramid looks great even without satellites and is one of the most remarkable monuments of ancient Egyptian civilization.

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

A masterpiece of world history

The pink pyramid, which ranks third in height, is located on the territory of the Dakhshur 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 to plaster rooms in Cairo, revealing a stone with an unusual subtle color. Others consider the version that the pyramid acquired this 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, distinguishing it from others. By the way, many who visited ancient place They say that in fact, the pink pyramid in Egypt acquires such a bright shining hue only in the rays of the setting sun.

Interestingly, the white limestone cladding is still visible at the very base of the tomb, while the neighboring building appears untouched. Scientists cannot explain such oddities.

Two tombs of Sneferu

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

Interestingly, there are two Sneferu pyramids: 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 Sneferu reveals to the world an ancient building built from massive blocks without the use of any mortar, which has preserved its original appearance to this day.

Mysteries of the tombs

One of the mysteries that scientists have to solve is: 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 centuries. Not every place was allowed to build burial complexes; the choice depended on many reasons and conditions. Giant giants preserve history and are symbols of the greatness of the country. Archaeologists are of the opinion that Snofra just started the pink pyramid, but did not have time to complete it, and his son, Cheops, finished building the ancient monument.

Archaeological finds

The Pink Pyramid has always attracted scientists, and in the 50s of the twentieth century, archaeologists from Egypt discovered massive colonnades inside it, a huge vestibule with a courtyard and several statues of Pharaoh Snofru himself. Due to the fact that the designs of the two tombs were technically verified, they did not collapse, like many others, and for forty-six centuries they were reliably connected by their weight.

For an exciting journey to the burial complex, tourists rise to a height of more than 20 meters. People 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 do not burn so much. It is necessary to stock up on drinking water, because the journey ahead is exciting and difficult.

Local guides warn that the difficult path is not for small children, and it is best not to take them into 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. For those suffering from respiratory diseases and fear of confined spaces, it is better to stop at sightseeing outside.

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

Tombs of the historical monument

The entrance to the ancient building begins with an extremely narrow corridor leading to three adjacent rooms - tombs. It is impossible to walk along it at full height, so all movements are made only in a slightly bent position. The guides even suggest stocking up on knee pads so that you can rest periodically and not get your clothes dirty.

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

Numerous ones have still not been solved. Called to surprise with their unique beauties, they are the world's priceless monuments. 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.

"Pink Pyramid"

The northern, or “Pink” (less commonly called “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 a sloping passage on the north side descends into three adjacent chambers, all filled with stones and inaccessible. This pyramid has been attributed to Snefer because several of the casing blocks have his name inscribed in red paint.

Although the “pink” tomb is the first “true” pyramid, it is characterized by an extremely low slope of the walls (base 218.5 × 221.5 m with 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 a sloping passage on the north side descended into three adjacent chambers, all filled with stones and inaccessible. This pyramid was attributed to Snefer because his name was inscribed in red paint on several of the casing blocks. The pyramids of Sneferu in Dahshur constituted an ensemble of similar and complementary buildings called Ha-Sneferu (“Shining Sneferu” or “Sneferu Rises”).

Pyramids at Meidum and Sale

And finally, the pyramid in 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 mortuary complex of Sneferu in Dahshur, since, according to a papyrus from the Abusir archive, it was a supplier of food to the mortuary temple of King Neferirkare. The identification of Djed-Sneferu with the Meidum monument is confirmed by an inscription on a Middle Kingdom figurine - discovered in the eastern sanctuary - which mentions the gods who are in Djed-Sneferu. Numerous New Kingdom graffiti left at the same sanctuary show that Meidum became a sacred place of pilgrimage. The total volume of these pyramids (3,682,500 m3) far exceeds the volume Great Pyramid in Giza (2,600,000 m3), which allows us to consider Snefera the greatest builder of the Old Kingdom.

As a result of excavations at a step pyramid, usually attributed to the III Dynasty, given its stepped shape, at Seila, located exactly 10 km. West of Meidum, on the eastern border of the Fayum, the name of Sneferu was discovered on the site of a religious building. Among the items cleared are a limestone stele with the Choir 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 Seila was built during the time of Snofru. Apparently, the step pyramid at Seila symbolized the supreme power of Sneferu near one of his residences, or was a cenotaph.

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

At the same time, it is obvious that the Sneferu construction program practically absorbed the entire workforce available in Egypt: it was necessary to bring from 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 and also to feed the country. Despite this, Sneferu remained in the memory of the people as a “beneficent” king. Middle Kingdom literature and later tradition viewed Snefra as an ideal ruler, extolling his ugliness in contrast to his son and successor, the despotic Khufu (Cheops). The existence of the cult of Snefru was mentioned even under the Ptolemies.

The greatest architectural monuments of Ancient Egypt, including one of the “Seven Wonders of the World” - the Pyramid of Cheops and an honorable candidate for the “New Seven Wonders of the World” - the Pyramids of Giza. Pyramids are huge stone structures that were 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 Egyptian pyramids. It was originally lined with white limestone, which was harder than the main blocks. The top of the pyramid was crowned with a gilded stone - the pyramidion. The cladding shone in the sun with a peach color, like “a shining miracle to which the Sun God Ra himself seemed to give all his rays.” The entrance to the pyramid is at an altitude of 15.63 m on the north side. The entrance is formed by stone slabs laid in the form of an arch. This entrance was sealed with a granite plug. Inside the Cheops pyramid there are three burial chambers, located one above the other.

The Pyramid of Khafre (Khafre) is the second largest ancient Egyptian pyramid. Located next to the Great Sphinx, as well as the pyramids of Cheops (Khufu) and Mikerin on the Giza plateau. Built presumably in the middle of the 26th century. BC. the structure, 143.5 m high, was named Urt-Khafra (“Khafra is great” or “Revered Khafra”). The side of the square base of the pyramid is 215 m, and the height is 136 m. When viewing 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 the very high place Giza necropolis. 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 occupies less than one hundredth of a percent!

The Pyramid of Menkaure (Mykerinus) is the southernmost, latest and lowest of the three Egyptian pyramids at Giza. Despite the nickname “Heru” (high), it barely reaches 66 m in height, and the side length of its base is 108.4 m. Despite the small size of the pyramid, according to eyewitnesses, the pyramid of Menkaure 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 Menkaure. Its weight was estimated at more than 200 tons. Putting into place a block of this size, the heaviest on the Giza plateau, was a true technical feat. The colossal statue of a seated king from the central chapel of the temple is one of the largest in the era of the Old Kingdom - an excellent proof of the skill of the pharaoh's sculptors.

Pink pyramid

The Pink Pyramid (North) is the largest of the three large pyramids located on the territory of the Dahshur necropolis. The name is associated with the color of the stone blocks, which turn pink in the rays of the setting sun. It is the third tallest pyramid in Egypt, after Khufu and Khafre at 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... As early as the Middle Ages, much of it was removed for the construction of houses in Cairo, leaving pinkish limestone 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 a regular stereometric pyramidal shape. Visiting the Pink Pyramid should be done with caution due to the pungent odor caused by the concentration of ammonia in its premises.

Bent pyramid

Bent Pyramid (South) - Egyptian pyramid in Dahshur, the construction of which is attributed to Pharaoh Snefru (XXVI BC). The southern pyramid is called "broken", "cut" or "diamond-shaped" for its irregular shape. It differs from other Old Kingdom pyramids in that it not only has an entrance on the north side, which was the norm, but also a second entrance, which is open higher up, on the west side. The pyramid contains two virtually unconnected systems of premises - Upper and Lower. The passage between them was made after construction through the layers of masonry. To the south of the Bent 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), length of the sides - 52.8 m. This pyramid has one feature - numerous red lines of unknown nature appear on the walls and floor. The location of the premises in the satellite pyramid resembles their location in the Cheops pyramid. 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 large size and with such complex system location of internal cameras.