"Pink Pyramid. The Pink Pyramid and its Unsolved Mysteries The Pink Pyramid of Sneferu
pink pyramid- the third tallest pyramid ancient egypt and the highest among all the buildings of the southern necropolis, located near Dakhshur, 26 km. from Cairo. Nearby was the first capital of a united Egypt - Memphis.
Sneferu, the great builder of Egypt
The construction of the Pink Pyramid is attributed to the XXVI BC, the time of the reign of Pharaoh Snefru, the father of Cheops (ruled in 2613-2589 BC). His name is found several times on the walls of the pyramid rooms and on parts of facing slabs found nearby. Snefru 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 the classical form, while the previous ones were stepped and much smaller.
In general, during the reign of Sneferu, the construction of two pyramids, Pink and Broken, also located near Dahshur, began. Scientists have not yet given an answer to the question why the pharaoh needed to build two tombs.
Snefere is also credited with building the step pyramid at Meidum. 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 correct and perfect structure of this type, almost an exact geometrically isosceles triangle. This gives it an amazing harmony. Its height is 104.4 m., the dimensions of the base are 218.5 x 221.5 m. Outwardly, the Pink Pyramid noticeably differs from its relatives in a lower slope of the faces - 43 ° 22 "against the 51 ° -52" accepted later as a standard. The total volume of construction is 1.694.000 cubic meters. At the time of its completion, it was the tallest building in the world.
The pyramid got its name from the color of the stone from which it is built - in the rays of the setting sun, the blocks become pinkish. But this is not a consequence of the architect's intention. Initially, the faces were lined with white limestone slabs, but in the Middle Ages, almost all of the facing was removed and used to build houses in Cairo. Only a small number of plates have survived at the very surface of the earth. The main material of the pyramid has a natural pinkish tint.
Interior spaces
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 that 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 is a little over a meter. The passage leads to three consecutive chambers, two of which are at ground level, and the third in the thickness of the masonry. The ceilings of the first two chambers are stepped, tapering upwards, their height is 12 meters. The chambers are connected by low narrow passages, which were apparently hidden in antiquity. Many researchers believe that the two chambers were designed to divert the attention of the robbers from the third, real burial room of the pharaoh. It is much more spacious than the first two, and the ceiling height reaches 17 meters.
However, all the precautions turned out to be unnecessary, because, according to archaeologists, no one was ever buried in the Pink Pyramid, and it was already completed in the reign of Cheops 10 years after the death of Sneferu. 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 rooms. This could have happened in the 23rd century BC, during the period of anarchy, when almost all the significant tombs of the Old Kingdom were looted.
Some written sources state that the original plan provided for the construction of an entire burial complex, similar to the one built near the Bent Pyramid. It is even reported that a mortuary 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 the ancient Egyptian civilization.
There are still no exact answers to many mysteries of world historical monuments. The breathtaking beauty of the unique echoes of antiquity and exciting adventures inside the pyramids attract tourists from all over the world. Everyone wants to touch a piece of something unknown.
Masterpiece of world history
The pink pyramid, which occupies the third place in height, is located on the territory of the Dahshur 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 for plastering rooms in Cairo, and as a result of this, a stone with an unusual delicate color was exposed. Others consider the version that the pyramid acquired such a 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 that distinguishes it from others. By the way, many who visited the ancient place say that in fact, the pink pyramid in Egypt acquires such a bright shining shade only in the rays of the setting sun.
Interestingly, at the very base of the tomb, the white limestone lining is still visible, and the neighboring building looks untouched. Scientists cannot explain such oddities in any way.
Two tombs of Sneferu
It is believed that the history of the pyramid goes back to the reign of the pharaoh from the Sneferu dynasty. However, there is no exact answer, because scientists make such a conclusion based on several plates on which this name is engraved. Until now, archaeologists are struggling with the secrets of the burial of the pharaoh and the internal structure of the historical monument.
Interestingly, there are two pyramids of Sneferu: 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 Snefru is the world's oldest building built of 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 unravel: why, at the behest of the pharaoh, were two pyramids erected? After all, it was very difficult to build such massive structures, consisting of multi-ton blocks, in ancient times. Not every place was allowed to build burial complexes, the choice depended on many reasons and conditions. Giant giants keep history and are symbols of the greatness of the country. Archaeologists have an opinion that the pink pyramid was just started, but did not have time to complete Snefru, and his son, Cheops, finished erecting the ancient monument.
Findings of archaeologists
The pink pyramid has always attracted scientists, and in the 50s of the 20th century, archaeologists from Egypt discovered massive colonnades inside it, a huge lobby with a courtyard, and several statues of Pharaoh Snefru himself. Due to the fact that the constructions of the two tombs are technically verified, they did not collapse like many others, but for forty-six centuries they were reliably connected by their weight.
For a fascinating journey to the burial complex, tourists rise to a height of more than 20 meters. They 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 still do not burn so much. It is necessary to stock up on drinking water, because the journey is going to be exciting and difficult.
Local guides warn that the difficult path is not for small children, and it is best not to take them with you to 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. Those suffering from respiratory diseases and fear of closed space should stop at the sightseeing outside.
In front of the entrance to the tomb there is an interesting stone - a pyramidon, now restored, but previously split into pieces. According to the Egyptians, it has been preserved since 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 as the pink pyramid. A photo of the stone is shown below.
Historical monument tombs
The entrance to the oldest building begins with an extremely narrow corridor leading to three adjacent rooms - tombs. It is impossible to walk on it in full growth, therefore all movements are made only in a slightly bent position. Guides even offer to stock up on knee pads to periodically rest and not get your clothes dirty.
The elements located inside the premises keep traces of all archaeological excavations and minor cosmetic repairs. It is believed that the first two rooms, located at ground level, were made solely in order to protect the real tomb of the pharaoh, carved in stone, from robbers. You should not hope that you will see all kinds of jewelry and household items, because the pink pyramid, like all others, was looted. This is where the journey ends, you have to return through the same meter passage.
Many are still unsolved. Called to amaze with their unique beauties, they are priceless monuments of the world. 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.
December 14, 2015There are still no exact answers to many mysteries of world historical monuments. The breathtaking beauty of the unique echoes of antiquity and exciting adventures inside the pyramids attract tourists from all over the world. Everyone wants to touch a piece of something unknown.
Masterpiece of world history
The pink pyramid, which occupies the third place in height, is located on the territory of the Dahshur 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 for plastering rooms in Cairo, and as a result of this, a stone with an unusual delicate color was exposed. Others consider the version that the pyramid acquired such a 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 that distinguishes it from others. By the way, many who visited the ancient place say that in fact, the pink pyramid in Egypt acquires such a bright shining shade only in the rays of the setting sun.
Interestingly, at the very base of the tomb, the white limestone lining is still visible, and the neighboring building looks untouched. Scientists cannot explain such oddities in any way.
Two tombs of Sneferu
It is believed that the history of the pyramid goes back to the reign of the pharaoh from the Sneferu dynasty. However, there is no exact answer, because scientists make such a conclusion based on several plates on which this name is engraved. Until now, archaeologists are struggling with the secrets of the burial of the pharaoh and the internal structure of the historical monument. 
Interestingly, there are two pyramids of Sneferu: 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 Snefru is the world's oldest building built of 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 unravel: why, at the behest of the pharaoh, were two pyramids erected? After all, it was very difficult to build such massive structures, consisting of multi-ton blocks, in ancient times. Not every place was allowed to build burial complexes, the choice depended on many reasons and conditions. Giant giants keep history and are symbols of the greatness of the country. Archaeologists have an opinion that the pink pyramid was just started, but did not have time to complete Snefru, and his son, Cheops, finished erecting the ancient monument.
Findings of archaeologists
The pink pyramid has always attracted scientists, and in the 50s of the 20th century, archaeologists from Egypt discovered massive colonnades inside it, a huge lobby with a courtyard, and several statues of Pharaoh Snefru himself. Due to the fact that the constructions of the two tombs are technically verified, they did not collapse like many others, but for forty-six centuries they were reliably connected by their weight. 
For a fascinating journey to the burial complex, tourists rise to a height of more than 20 meters. They 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 still do not burn so much. It is necessary to stock up on drinking water, because the journey is going to be exciting and difficult.
Local guides warn that the difficult path is not for small children, and it is best not to take them with you to 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. Those suffering from respiratory diseases and fear of closed space should stop at the sightseeing outside.
In front of the entrance to the tomb there is an interesting stone - a pyramidon, now restored, but previously split into pieces. According to the Egyptians, it has been preserved since 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 as the pink pyramid. A photo of the stone is shown below. 
Historical monument tombs
The entrance to the oldest building begins with an extremely narrow corridor leading to three adjacent rooms - tombs. It is impossible to walk on it in full growth, therefore all movements are made only in a slightly bent position. Guides even offer to stock up on knee pads to periodically rest and not get your clothes dirty.
The elements located inside the premises keep traces of all archaeological excavations and minor cosmetic repairs. It is believed that the first two rooms, located at ground level, were made solely in order to protect the real tomb of the pharaoh, carved in stone, from robbers. You should not hope that you will see all kinds of jewelry and household items, because the pink pyramid, like all others, was looted. This is where the journey ends, you have to return through the same meter passage. 
Numerous secrets of the pyramids have not yet been solved. Called to amaze with their unique beauties, they are priceless monuments of the world. 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.
| Data | |
|---|---|
| Location | Dahshur |
| Customer | Sneferu |
| Construction time | IV dynasty (~2640 to ~2620 BC) |
| Type of | Pyramid |
| Construction material | Limestone |
| Base size | 220 m |
| Height (originally) | 109.5 m |
| Altitude (today) | 104 m |
| Volume | 1.694.000 m³ |
| Incline | 43° 22" |
| iconic pyramid | No |
| Pyramids of queens | No |
pink pyramid or the Northern Pyramid - the largest of the three great pyramids located on the territory of the Dakhshur necropolis. The name is associated with the color of stone blocks, which acquire a pink color 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, since even in the Middle Ages a significant part of it was removed for the construction of houses in Cairo, as a result of which pinkish limestone was exposed. This pyramid is attributed to Sneferu, as his name was found inscribed in red paint on several facing blocks.
Northern Pyramid of Pharaoh Snefru in Dahshur, at the time of its construction in the 26th century. BC e. 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), although the angle of its sides has an error of only 43 ° 22 "compared to the late norm of 51 ° 52". In addition, it has an extremely low slope of the walls (the base is 218.5 × 221.5 m at a height of 104.4 m). The volume of the pyramid is 1,694,000 m³. The entrance through the sloping passage on the north side leads down to three adjacent chambers, about 17 meters high, which are accessible to the public.
Egypt.Dashur.RedPyramid.02.jpg
Part of the protruding walls forming the vault in the main burial chamber.
South side of the Pink Pyramid.
red-pyramid-entry.jpg
Entrance to the Pink Pyramid.
Pyramide-rouge-plans.jpg
Diagram of the Pink Pyramid at Dahshur.
Pyramide-rouge-infra.jpg
Diagram of the interior of the pyramid.
Bricks of the Red Pyramid in Dahshur.jpg
Stone blocks of the Pink Pyramid.
Restoration Project at the Red Pyramid in Dahshur.jpg
Start of restoration work.
Inside Snofru's Red Pyramid.jpg
Descending corridor.
11 red corbel 1.jpg
View of the ceiling in the chambers of the pyramid.
10 red chamber.jpg
Hidden passage from the first to the second burial chamber.
Severe floor damage.
see also
- The Bent Pyramid is another Sneferu pyramid in Dahshur.
- Luxor Las Vegas is a very similar modern pyramid in Las Vegas.
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An excerpt characterizing the Pink Pyramid
I entered the gate and greeted a little thin old woman who was sitting there alone and thinking about something very detached.The day was pleasant, sunny and warm, although autumn was already quite confident in the yard. A light breeze rustled in the last remaining leaves, spreading around the juicy smell of honey, mushrooms and the earth heated by the last rays of the sun... As it should have been, a kind, deep, “golden” silence reigned in this peaceful place of Eternal Peace…
As usual, I sat down on my grandfather's bench and began to tell him all my latest news. I knew that it was stupid and that he, even with my greatest desire, could not hear me in any way (because his essence had lived in me since the day of his death), but I missed him so much and constantly, that I allowed myself this tiny, harmless illusion in order to regain, at least for a brief moment, that wonderful connection that I had until now had only with him alone.
So quietly and peacefully “talking” with my grandfather, I did not notice at all how the same miniature old woman approached me and sat next to me on a small stump. How long she stayed with me like that, I don't know. But when I returned to “normal reality”, I saw radiant, not at all senile, blue eyes looking at me affectionately, as if asking if I needed any help ...
- Oh, forgive me, grandmother, I didn’t even notice when you came up! I said, very embarrassed.
Usually it was difficult to approach me unnoticed - some inner sense of self-defense always worked. But such boundless kindness emanated from this warm, sweet old woman that, apparently, all my “protective instincts” slowed down ...
“I’m talking to my grandfather…” I said embarrassedly.
“And don’t be ashamed, dear,” the old woman shook her head, “you have a giving soul, this happiness is great and rare. Don't be ashamed.
I looked with all my eyes at this puny and very unusual old woman, not at all understanding what she was talking about, but for some reason feeling absolute and complete trust in her. She sat down next to me, affectionately hugged me with her old, dry, but very warm hand, and unexpectedly smiled very brightly:
“Don’t worry, honey, everything will be fine. Just don’t rush to find out the answers to everything… it’s still too early for you, because in order to get answers, you must first know the right questions… And they haven’t matured for you yet…
Only after many years did I manage to understand what this strange, wise old woman really wanted to say. But then I only listened to her very carefully, trying to remember every word, so that later more than once I would “scroll” in my memory everything that was not understood (but, as I felt, it was very important for me) and try to catch at least a grain of what could help me in my eternally ongoing "search" ...
“I took on too heavy a load - you’ll break down ...” the old woman continued calmly, and I realized that she meant my contacts with the dead. – Not all people are worth it, dear, some must pay for their deeds, otherwise they will begin to believe for no reason that they are already worthy of forgiveness, and then your good will only bring evil ... Remember, my girl, good should always be SMART. Otherwise, it is no longer good at all, but simply an echo of your heart or desire, which does not necessarily coincide with who the person you have gifted is truly.
The height of the "Pink Pyramid" was 105 meters, and the base of each face was about 220 meters. The Pink Pyramid is the first pyramid in Egypt to have a regular geometric pyramid shape.
Another thing is that the angle of inclination of its faces is much less than that of the pyramids in Giza. It is about 43 degrees. As a result of this, the pyramid seems flat and is visually perceived lower than it really is.
It is located at a distance of about a kilometer from another pyramid of Pharaoh Sneferu, which, due to the different angles of the walls of the lower and upper parts, was called the “Broken Pyramid”. This pyramid, like the third pyramid of the same pharaoh in Meidum, also has colossal dimensions.
Initially, the Pink Pyramid was covered with a lining of white limestone, which over time was taken away by distant descendants for the construction of other objects.
Why the pyramid received such a name (sometimes also called the "Red Pyramid") is not entirely clear. The color of the blocks from which it is built is no different from the color of other limestone pyramids. The most plausible hypothesis is that in the rays of the setting sun, the blocks of the pyramid appear pinkish. True, exactly the same effect is observed at sunset near other pyramids.
At a height of about 30 meters is the entrance to the pyramid. A narrow square-shaped tunnel goes at an angle down the pyramid. The tunnel leads to three chambers, in one of which, apparently, the pharaoh's sarcophagus should have been installed. But it was never installed. For unknown reasons, the finished pyramid of the pharaoh did not suit something, and he ordered the construction of another pyramid.
The Pink Pyramid is open to tourists relatively recently - in the 90s of the last century. The ventilation ducts provided by the builders of the pyramid, although they were cleared of bats and their waste products, have not yet coped with their mission sufficiently. A rather unpleasant and pungent smell is felt in the tunnel and chambers. This circumstance, however, does not prevent especially enthusiastic “pyramid worshipers” from spending hours in cells, clinging to the walls in order to feel some “fluctuations of the pyramid”.
It will also be interesting to see.