Although pyramids are traditionally associated with Egypt, the largest number of them are located in another African country – Sudan.
This was reported by “URA-Inform” with reference to IFLScience.
It is reported that there are between 220 and 255 pyramids, significantly more than the Egyptian pyramids, which are estimated to number around 118. These pyramids, smaller in size but no less impressive, were built by the rulers of the ancient Kingdom of Kush.
History and Significance of the Kushite Pyramids
The Kingdom of Kush, which existed from the 8th century BC in Nubia (from Aswan in Egypt to Khartoum in Sudan), became a great power in the region. During the 25th Dynasty, the Kushites even ruled Egypt, leaving behind a dynasty of so-called “Black Pharaohs”. The first of these, Pian, invaded Egypt in 770 BC, establishing a new dynasty centered in Napata.
Pian was the first ruler of Kush to be buried in a pyramid at the El-Kurru necropolis. Inspired by Egyptian traditions, he set a trend that his successors continued.
After losing control of Egypt, the Kushites retreated to Nubia, establishing a new capital at Meroe. It is there that most of the Nubian pyramids are located – about 200 structures built from the 3rd century BC. These pyramids are the resting places of 41 members of the royal family.
The Decline of the Kingdom and the Loss of Heritage
Kush flourished until the 4th century CE, when it was finally abandoned after clashes with the Roman army and the neighboring kingdom of Aksum. In the 19th century, the Meroë pyramids and artefacts of the Kingdom of Kush were rediscovered by archaeologists. However, their first explorers were tomb robbers such as Giuseppe Ferlini, who caused extensive damage to the monuments.
Today, most of the pyramids are in a deplorable state. The destruction has been exacerbated by ongoing civil conflicts since the mid-20th century, making it difficult to attract tourists and finance restoration.
A forgotten gem of antiquity
Unlike the Egyptian pyramids, which attract millions of tourists and are protected by world heritage, the Nubian pyramids of Sudan remain in the shadows. This little-known monument of a great civilization deserves attention and preservation to tell the world another unique story of the Ancient World.
Recall that earlier it was reported that dozens of new ancient mummies were discovered in Egypt: what amazed archaeologists about them (photo).
