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Dahshur Pyramids

One of the most significant among the archaeological sites in Egypt on the south of Cairo. This site has six pyramids that were built for the first time by pharaohs of the old kingdom. Let’s read all about the pyramids of Dahshur. 

Historical Significance of Dahshur

This site is considered as a place for the evolution of pyramids. As the pharaoh of 4th dynasty Sneferu has set an example by constructing two pyramids Red and Bent pyramids for the advancement in pyramid engineering. Later, we saw the advancement in the Giza complex. 

The Bent Pyramid: A Unique Design

Bent pyramid constructed in 2600 BCE by the Sneferu with intriguing design. This pyramid structure is unique as the lower part rises almost by 45 degrees and the upper part is constructed at 43 degrees, which shows the structural instability but attempts to build the pyramids at that time. Unlike other pyramids, Bent Pyramid retains and gives us a look of how pyramids looked in the prime ancient time. You will see the original limestone casing around its perimeter.

Red Pyramid: First Successful Pyramid

This pyramid was built by the Sneferu as well and name given to it due to its reddish hue limestone. This is the third largest pyramid after Khufu and Khafre pyramids at Giza standing at 105 meters. This is the first successful smooth sided pyramid in ancient times. Visitors have to pass through the steep path to explore the inner chambers and part of the pyramid. There are three impressive chambers inside it. This is a major milestone for the upcoming pyramids.

Lesser-Known Pyramids in Dahshur

There are also 9 pyramids other than bent and red in Dahshur that are lesser known due to not being successful in structure. These pyramids are less famous among the visitors due to which there is less crowd and offers to explore the history easily. Here is the list of other pyramids that are in Dahshur:

• Red Pyramid
• Bent Pyramid
• Black Pyramid
• Pyramid of Amenemhat II
• Pyramid of Senwosret III
• Muzghuna Pyramids

Architectural Innovations

All the pyramids in the Dahshur show the key advancement in the architect and construction techniques. As, the transition from step pyramids to smooth sided structure by trying different angles, materials and techniques which lead toward the successful architecture that we can see in the form of Red Pyramid and in Giza Complex. 

Recent Excavations

This archaeological site is a more interesting site for the archaeologist because it allows them to explore how the pyramids were built. They can  scan and learn the starting techniques of ancient people. In recent years by using modern technologies which show  the burial chambers, artifacts and tools beneath the sand. 

Interesting Facts about Dahshur

Here are the some interesting facts:

• In the burial chamber of the Red pyramid there is a strange acoustics effect that  creates an eerie echo.
• There are two entrances to the Bent pyramid which is unusual among the other pyramids.
• There is a difference of several decades in the construction dates between the Great pyramid of Giza and Dahshur. 
• This archaeological site Dahshur was under the military until 1990 to prevent them from the effect of massive tourism. 

How to reach Dahshur:

This site is located on the south of Cairo almost 40 km away from the city and can be explored as a day trip. You can reach there by booking with local companies as a private day trip with a tour guide in the car. Also, you can do excursions by joining trips / small groups with local companies. There is a public transport as well that you can use to reach there by using microbus from Giza to El Badrasheen and then book a taxi to reach the site. This is an inexpensive method but not comfortable.

Day tour to

Memphis, Saqqara & Dahshur

From Cairo

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What you can expect inside Dahshur pyramids

As there is no entrance fee of Dahshur pyramids, unlike the other pyramids in Giza complex. You can go inside them but you have to be ready for the following:

• You will have to crouch to reach the chamber because there are narrow and steep passageways. 
• Inside the pyramids you will feel stuffy and humid despite the warm desert weather.
• There is no decoration inside the pyramids like the interior decoration of the tombs in luxor. 
• You can bring a small headlight or also you can use your phone light inside them due to low light.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Dahshur is in between the months of October to April because in these months the weather is cooler. Try to reach the site in the early morning from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm and 3:00 pm till sunset to avoid the heat. The site is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and the last entry is till 4:30 pm. Entrance fees for the foreigners is 200 EGP, almost 3 $ and 100 EGP for students. 

Tips for smooth visit to Dahshur

• Wear comfortable shoes.
• Keep water and snacks with you as there were no cafes inside the site. 
• Lose and breathable clothes are best for desert heat.
• It will be great to hire a local guide.
• Always be aware of the scams of overcharging by unofficial guides.

Nearby sites of Dahshur

There are also two major sites near the Dahshur site that you can explore on a day trip. Saqqara (Step Pyramid of Djoser) is the oldest pyramid which is almost 10 km away from the Dahshur. Memphis (Ancient Capital of Egypt) offers the massive statue of Ramese II and other artifacts as well. 

Conclusion

Dahshur archaeological site gives you a chance to explore the history peacefully due to less crowd. You will also have a chance to enter inside the pyramid for free unlike the pyramids in Giza. The stunning desert there as well give a traditional landscape view that is untouched by modern tourism. These aspects make it worth visiting.