When it comes to pyramids, most immediately imagines Egypt with its grand structures, which became a symbol of ancient Egyptian civilization. However, few people know that the largest number of pyramids is concentrated not in Egypt, but in the neighboring African country - Sudan.
According to scientists, there are from 220 to 255 pyramids in Sudan, which is much higher than the number of similar structures in Egypt, where there are about 118 pyramids. All these monuments are part of the historical heritage of the ancient kingdom of Kush, which flourished in the VIII century BC. The kingdom of Kush, located on the territory of modern Sudan, was famous for its cultural and architectural heritage. Its rulers, who at the same time became Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt during the XXV dynasty, were able to adapt the Egyptian traditions to their culture. The first such Pharaoh was a pianh, which ruled from 746 to 716 BC.
It was the pianh who started the construction of the pyramids in Kush, choosing a form similar to the Egyptian pyramids for his tomb. The first pyramids of this kingdom appeared in the necropolis of El Curra, but later most structures were built in the new capital-the city of Meroe. About 200 pyramids are concentrated in the necropolis of Ancient Meroe. Their structure is different from Egyptian: they are smaller in size and have a more pointed shape. Built between the V and IV centuries BC, these pyramids served as a burial place for rulers and aristocracy. With the decline of the kingdom in the III century BC Construction ceased, and in the subsequent centuries these structures were neglected. Unfortunately, in the nineteenth century, most of the pyramids were destroyed due to the plundering of the tombs made by the Italian treasurer Giuseppe Ferlin. Despite their historical significance, the Pyramids of Sudan remain little known in the world. Their condition continues to deteriorate due to unstable political situation and restrictions on archaeological research.
While the Egyptian pyramids attract millions of tourists every year, the Pyramids of Sudan remain in the shade. This forgotten architectural inheritance awaits its second discovery, which could reveal more about the culture and history of the ancient kingdom of Kush.
