In the middle of the Sudanese desert, hundreds of kilometers from the famous pyramids of Giza, stands a group of little-known monuments, witnesses of an equally fascinating civilization. The pyramids of Sudan, vestiges of the kingdom of Kush, outnumber those of Egypt and reveal a complex history, made up of conquests, cultural exchanges and architectural innovations. Scattered across several sites, including the necropolis of Meroe, they embody the influence of an African power long eclipsed by the shadow of the Egyptian pharaohs. But why do these treasures remain so little known to the general public?
The Kushite kings, nicknamed the Black Pharaohs, established their power over a vast geographic expanse from Aswan to Khartoum, playing a central role in cultural and commercial exchanges between sub-Saharan Africa and Egypt.
In 770 BCE, Piye, the first Kushite king of the 25th Dynasty, conquered Egypt and unified the lands under his rule. Fascinated by Egyptian pyramids used as tombs, he demanded that a pyramid be built for his own burial. This architectural choice marked the beginning of a lasting tradition: the kings and queens of Kush adopted the pyramids as a symbol of power and prestige. The inhabitants of the kingdom built the first pyramids in the necropolis of El-Kurru, near Napata, their first capital.
These pyramids are smaller but have much steeper angles. They reflect a unique technical mastery. Their design combines local and Egyptian influences, offering a rich and complex symbolism. The engraved reliefs reveal details of religious practices. They also describe daily life and Kushite funeral rituals.
The necropolis of Meroe
After losing Egypt, the Kushites retreated south. They established their new capital at Meroe, near the Nile. This site quickly became the heart of their civilization. It also became the main place for the construction of the pyramids. Today, around 200 pyramids remain in the Meroe necropolis. Most were erected between the 3rd century BC and the 4th century AD.
The pyramids of Meroe impress with their density and unique layout. They bear witness to the prosperity of the kingdom during this period. Unlike the Egyptian pyramids, they were primarily used as royal tombs. They housed the tombs of 41 sovereigns and many Kushite nobles. Their slender structure and compact proportions reflect a distinct architectural style. This style adapted to the limited resources of this semi-arid region.
Archaeological excavations in Meroe have uncovered many precious objects. Among them, gold jewelry, refined ceramics and remarkable statues. These discoveries confirm the cultural refinement of the Kushites. They also show the importance of Meroe as a religious and economic center. The site also illustrates the major political role of the Kushite kingdom.
A forgotten and neglected history
Despite their great historical value, the Sudanese pyramids have not received the attention of the Egyptian pyramids. In the 19th century, the Italian adventurer Giuseppe Ferlini destroyed several pyramids in search of treasure. His expeditions caused enormous damage, with many monuments partially or completely destroyed. These acts have thus deprived the world of irreplaceable cultural wealth.
The pyramids of Meroe have also suffered from decades of neglect and political instability in Sudan. Since the 1950s, successive civil wars have slowed investments in conservation. Unlike the Egyptian pyramids, those of Sudan remain little known. Few visitors venture there, despite their unique historical importance.
Recent conflicts have also worsened the situation, as IFLScience points out. The lack of funds for restoration, combined with harsh climatic conditions, accelerated the degradation of the pyramids. Some structures have been restored, but many continue to collapse due to lack of sufficient resources to protect this archaeological treasure.
However, initiatives are emerging. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011, the pyramids of Meroe are finally benefiting from growing international recognition. Awareness campaigns aim to draw attention to these monuments, and restoration projects are underway, although they are limited by the socio-economic conditions of the country.
With an unwavering passion for local news, Christopher leads our editorial team with integrity and dedication. With over 20 years’ experience, he is the backbone of Wouldsayso, ensuring that we stay true to our mission to inform.
