Sudanese pyramids differ from Egyptian very strongly. They are much smaller in size. The base length of these pyramids is 8-15 m, and a height of 12-20 m.
Than the Pyramids Meroe are noteworthy
There are no interior in them and there are no jewelry in these pyramids. They are also called the pyramids of “black pharaohs”. According to various estimates, their number reaches within 2-3 hundred. These states are adjacent to each other, and Egypt undoubtedly had a great cultural influence on Sudan. It was following the example of the Egyptian pyramids that Pyramids of Meroe were built.
The first pyramids began to build more than 2.5 thousand. years BC, and the latter were built in the 3rd century AD. They were different in structure, some with ledges, others are smooth and more sharp, in their upper part there was a small niche. Presumably in them were statues.
The pyramids are in three places, all are located in the vicinity of the city of Meroe – the ancient capital of the Kush kingdom. All these places are called running cemeteries.
Than the Pyramids Meroe are noteworthy
The southern cemetery appeared first when there were no burial places, the northern cemetery appeared. In these places, local rulers (Farans and Korolev) were buried in these places, as well as members of the royal family.
Third cemetery – Western. There were non -Orolevo burials (130 graves).
The kingdom was strong and quite developed. The economy was based on the extraction of iron ores and trade. Therefore, external ties were well developed. Their trade routes extended to the European continent. The culture of not only Egypt was familiar, but also ancient Greece with Rome. Which was reflected during the construction of the pyramids.
The tombs themselves had the entrance from the east – where the sun rises. The hieroglyphs with which the walls are painted indicates the influence of ancient Egyptian culture. Traces of Greek and Roman ancient culture are also clearly visible, also traces. This is especially evident in the decorative elements of nubia pyramids made of stone. It was these factors that made the pyramids with the priceless architectural relics of antiquity. All structures are listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Lists.
Unfortunately, many pyramids were destroyed and looted at the very beginning of the 19th century (by the way, according to scientists, golden tips were also installed on the tops of the pyramids). The restoration of the pyramids began in the 70-80s of the last century.
Currently visiting Pyramids Meroe is very problematic and dangerous. Since there is a civil war in Sudan, piracy and banditry flourish. And plus with economic sanctions imposed by the United States in 1997, the country’s tourism industry was destroyed almost completely.
Now the country is visiting no more than 15 thousand. tourists per year.
As you can see, few who dare to visit Sudan and get acquainted with these pyramids of “black pharaohs”.