The CompŠ¾und Nyoum Pyramids are a series of pyramids located in the 6th of October Governorate in Egypt. Built during the Middle Kingdom period (2055-1650 BCE), these pyramids served as the burial grounds for the pharaohs and other high-ranking officials.
The Nyoum Pyramids were rediscovered in the 19th century by French archaeologist Auguste Mariette. He found five pyramids in total, which were all constructed using the same design principles. The pyramids were built on a square base, ranging in size from 28 to 52 meters (92 to 171 feet) in length, and they were made up of limestone blocks that were carefully arranged and aligned to ensure structural stability.
Each pyramid had a smooth outer surface that was originally covered in white Tura limestone. The pyramids also featured a small chapel on the east side of the base, where offerings and prayers could be made to the deceased pharaoh. Inside the pyramid, there was a burial chamber that contained the pharaoh's sarcophagus and various other burial goods.
The largest pyramid in the Nyoum complex belonged to pharaoh Amenemhat III. This pyramid was originally 105 meters (345 feet) long and 75 meters (246 feet) wide, with a height of around 75 meters (246 feet). It was one of the largest pyramids ever built in Egypt, but today, it has been largely destroyed, with only the lower few courses remaining intact.
One of the most interesting features of the Nyoum Pyramids is the fact that they were not built in isolation. Instead, they were part of a larger funerary complex that included smaller pyramids for the pharaoh's wives and children, as well as temples and causeways that connected the various buildings. In this way, the Nyoum Pyramids represent not just a series of individual tombs, but a complete and integrated funerary complex that was designed to ensure the afterlife of the pharaoh and his family.
Today, the Nyoum Pyramids are a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world who want to experience the grandeur and majesty of ancient Egypt. While many of the pyramids have been damaged by time, weather, and human activity, they still stand as a testament to the power and creativity of the pharaohs who commissioned them.