The pyramids of Giza are famous. Built by Khufu in 2550 B.C., they are the ones that everyone knows about; President Obama visited these pyramids on his trip to Egypt. They are the largest, the smoothest and the best preserved but they are not the only ones in Egypt. Egypt has over 100 pyramids; choosing which of these famous structures to visit is no small task.
Located in the Western Desert
About 56 kilometres south of Saqqara, off the usual tourist path, is the Pyramid of Meidum. It is on the edge of the Western Desert, surrounded by a vast expanse of white sand. The oasis in the distance is visible, as is the flood plain of the Nile, an essential element to Egyptian agriculture. At 306 feet tall, it is easily spotted from a long way off.
History of the Pyramid of Meidum
The Pyramid of Meidum was the first attempt at a true pyramid. Most scholars believe it was built by Snefru, Khufu’s father, around 2613 BC when he came to power. Others believe that it was originally started by Hani, Snefru’s predecessor. It is smaller than the Giza pyramids but has historical significance as it is the first pyramid to have a burial chamber above ground. According to National Geographic, this may have been an attempt to raise the person buried there closer to the Sun god. It was also the first pyramid to have smooth sides, although this was not the original design. It was initially created based on the pyramid of Djoser, the step pyramid.
The Pyramid of Meidum had seven steps, more like levels than steps, until Senferu decided to add another, giving it eight in total. After the structure was completed, limestone was used to encase it and to give it smooth sides.
Pyramid of Meidum Today
What remains of the pyramid is much less grand then when it was built, but it is still an impressive sight. It has lost its limestone encasing, which slid off and now sits in a pile of rubble around its base. Only the top three steps are visible but the entrance to the burial chamber is open. There is no treasure left here, grave robbers have long since cleaned it out. For a small fee it is possible to go in to the pyramid, although no pictures are allowed. A small tip to the guard may make it possible to bend the rules.
Nonetheless, this pyramid’s historical significance makes it an exciting element of any trip through Egypt. The crowds that are found at the Giza Pyramids are almost nonexistent, a personal guide is available to escort travellers around and the area appears to be free from touts and others who want to sell you things.
Tours companies, buses and taxis all go here, depending on what travel arrangements you would like to make. The area surrounding it is very conservatively Muslim, so smart travellers dress modestly and are prepared to put up with a possible police escort. People are friendly and helpful but the process of travelling in this region can be slow. Despite any hassles, this trip will well worth the trouble.
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