Meidum Pyramid
The Meidum Pyramid, the collapse Pyramid, or el-Haram el-Kaddab, was one of the perfect examples of building a true Pyramid in history although it did not stand the strain of the waves. The Pyramid located in the ancient city of Meidum in Egypt is an impressive attraction, and unfortunately, this pyramid is one of Egypt's forgotten attractions although it was built around 2,700 BC.
The pyramid of Meidum was built during the reign of King Huni and was completed later by his son King Snerfu. It was believed that King Snefru wanted to complete a special Pyramid to honor the ancient Egyptian gods & goddesses and his power and greatness. The Meidum Pyramid is unique as it was made up of eight incredible levels, but you will see only three layers today.
Our article today will help you to learn more about the true Pyramids, the reason for building, construction, and facts.
Who is King Huni?
King Huni was the first ruler of Egypt's Third Dynasty and is credited with transforming Egypt from a nomadic society into a unified nation. King Huni was a great leader and a genius king as he led the Egyptian people through a series of great prosperity, power, and success during his region. He was also a great builder, as he built one of the first pyramids in ancient Egypt "The Meidum Pyramid" and also built a border on the island of Elephantine to protect it at the cataract.
The region of the pharaoh witnessed great development in different fields such as art, trade, and various aspects of civilizations, so they called his region "The Golden Age of Progress". This great pharaoh was a beloved ruler and a brave hero to his people. King Huni had a daughter called "Hetepheres I", the ancient Egyptians called her "The Daughter of a God", this is evidence of his greatness and how the ancient Egyptians loved him.
Who is King Snefru?
King Snefru was one of the first great rulers in Ancient Egypt. He reigned during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom in (2613–2589 BC). He had thirteen children and they are: "Khufu, Ankhhaf, Nefermaat, Kanefer, Henutsen, Rahotep, Nefertkau I, Meritites I, Hetepheres A, Ranefer, Netjeraperef, Nefermaat, and Lynefer I", and the son of queen Meresankh I.
King Snefru is acknowledged as one of the first kings to build a Pyramid with massive stones. He built at least three Pyramids that were the first true pyramid in history, He built the Red Pyramid, the Bent Pyramid of Dahshur, and the Pyramid of Meidum. The Egyptian Pharaoh also instituted several economic and social reforms, such as allowing the public people to own lands. King Snefru is remembered as a great Pharaoh and is still revered in modern Egypt today.
Where is the Location of the Meidum Pyramid?
The Pyramid of Meidum is a step and true pyramid located in Meidum, Bani Suef governorate, Egypt. It is one of the oldest Pyramids among the three major pyramids and it was believed to have been the first ever constructed in Egypt. The pyramid of Meidum was built for the Pharaoh Huni and is thought to have later been expanded and completed by his successor King Sneferu.
The Pyramid is located 65 kilometers from Sakkara, 80 kilometers to the south of Memphis, and about 20 kilometers to the southeast of Fayoum on the west bank of the Nile River in Bani Suef governorate.
Why Was the Meidum Pyramid Built For?
The Meidum pyramid is an ancient Egyptian structure that served as a funerary place for the pharaohs and royal families, as it was believed to be the home of the gods and kings in the afterlife. The Meidum pyramid was built as a symbol of the pharaoh’s power and pride in this era, as it was a massive and great structure with unbelievable techniques.
The pyramid was also built to symbolize the pharaoh's immortality, as it was believed that the kings will rule once again over the afterlife. The most famous of all the pyramids is the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Pyramid of Khufu which is the oldest and largest of the three pyramids in Giza.
The Meidum pyramid was also a presentation of the Pharaoh’s journey to the afterlife. The pyramid was also a way for the Pharaoh to connect with the gods and goddesses as it was a place for prayers. The Pyramid was one of the first attempts in history to build a true Pyramid. The current location of the Pyramid was the capital of ancient Egypt during this time, and it was called "Geddy Senefru".
The Construction of the Pyramid of Meidum
- The Pyramid of Meidum was made up at the beginning of eight levels, but you can see today only three layers.
- The first level is the underground chamber, which housed the pharaoh’s burial tools and also his possessions.
- The second level is the base of the pyramid itself, which is made of limestone blocks and mud bricks.
- The third level is the step pyramid which was made of six stepped layers.
- The fourth and final level is the true pyramid, which is made of limestone and is the only part of the pyramid that is still standing today.
- The Meidum Pyramid is also unique in its design, as it is one of the first true pyramids in history to include a curved surface.
- The design of pyramid of Meidum is thought to have been designed to align with the stars of the northern hemisphere, making it an impressive feat of engineering.
- The Pyramid has a small temple attached to the eastern side which is 65 meters high.
- The Pyramid has a burial chamber, an inner chamber, and many other chambers that were used for ritual purposes.
- The height of the Pyramid is 65 meters and its base is about 144 meters or 275 cubits.
- The entrance of the Pyramid is in the north-south, and it is about 20 meters above the level of the ground.
- The steep descending passage is 17 meters, which leads to a horizontal passage.
- The burial chamber measures 2.65 meters, which is very small.
- The chamber had not been for any burial.
- The stepped Pyramid stages E1 and E2 are very similar in their construction, as it is likely to stage E2 was built after E1 was completed.
- There is a chapel that measures 9 meters, and it was built against the face of the east.
- The traces of the wall measure 218 meters surrounding the complex.
- The final smooth stage E3 was made from flat horizontal courses with larger and finer blocks of limestone.
- To the northeast of the Pyramid just a few hundred yards away, there is a colossal structure in a ruinous state known as mastaba 17 or M 17.
- This mastaba is the second largest in the region, which is the burial place of Senefru’s son "Nephi max, and his wife Atete".
How to Visit the Pyramid of Meidum?
You can visit the pyramid on your own, by following the direction by GPS. We highly recommend booking with a specialized tour agency. Trips in Egypt has various Egypt tour packages which include unforgettable visits to the Pyramid of Meidum and other Pyramids in the area, plus you will avoid any hassle during your tour, as we will pick you up from your hotel and drive you back to the hotel after finishing your tour.
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Conclusion
To summarize briefly, the Meidum Pyramid is an unbelievable archaeological attraction in ancient Egypt that reveals the great civilization of the Ancient Egyptians. The pyramid is a testament to the sophistication of the ancient Egyptians in their creativity and techniques, as well as in their religious beliefs.
This amazing attraction also serves as a reminder of the remarkable pride of the Pharaohs and Kings in their ability to command workers for such ambitious projects. The Meidum Pyramid is a testament to the skill and influence of the Ancient Egyptians and a reminder that the whole world has much to learn from their creativity and achievements.
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FAQ
What Should I Wear While Being in Egypt?
You should wear whatever you want. It is advised to wear something light from cotton or linen, comfortable and put on sunblock during your time in Egypt in the summer and wear comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the sandy terrain.
What to Pack for Your Egypt Tour?
You should bring a brimmed hat and sunglasses if you not used to the Egyptian sun &pack everything you could ever need and put in a small bag so you could move easily between your destinations.
Are All Nile Cruises Available at Any Time?
Yes, it is available all years. as the Nile from Aswan to Luxor takes three to four days of sailing on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for the total cost of 600$ and the Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan take four to five days in Saturday, Monday and Thursday for the coast of 650$.
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Is it safe to travel to Egypt?
Yes, it is absolutely safe to travel to egypt, You will feel secure in Egypt as the current atmosphere of the country is very peaceful after the government took powerful measures like restructuring the entire tourist police to include all the important and tourist attractions in Egypt and construct an entire environment dedicated for ensuring the lives of all tourists.
What are Egypt's Visa Requirements?
They are very simples, If you want to apply for a Visa On Arrival that lasts for 30 days then you should be one of the eligible countries(check the link), have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and pay 25$ USD entry fee in cash. As for the E-Visa for 30 days, you should have a valid passport for at least 8 months, complete the online application, pay the e-visa fee then print the e-visa to later be presented to the airport border guard. You could be one of the countries eligible for a free visa for 90 days.
What is the Weather is Like?
The temperature of Egypt ranges from 37c to 14 c, Summer in Egypt is somehow hot and winter is cool and mild but sometimes it becomes cold at night. The average of low temperatures vary from 9.5 ¡ÆC in the wintertime to 23 ¡ÆC in the summertime and average high temperatures vary from 17 ¡ÆC in the wintertime to 32 ¡ÆC in the summertime while the temperature is moderate all along the coasts.
What is the Best Time of Visit Egypt?
It is known the best time to travel to Egypt is in the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a bit tropical, a warm atmosphere with a winter breeze. You will also be notified a week before your trip if the weather is unsafe or if any changes have been made.
Should I Give Tips in Egypt?
It is totally up to you, but if you choose to you can tip the servers at your restaurant 5-10% by handing it to them directly and 5 Egyptian Pounds as a general tip of anyone.
Can I Enter the Pyramids?
Yes, you can enter the pyramids for the small fee of 20$.
How to Enjoy Egypt During Ramadan?
Ramadan is a special time of year for Muslims that should be celebrated by non-Muslims and feel the essence of the Islamic culture. You can fast with the Muslim or just observe but you are always welcome to join the celebrations and festivals.
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