Memphis and its Necropolis – the Pyramid Fields from Giza to Dahshur
Memphis and its Necropolis – the Pyramid Fields from Giza to Dahshur, UNESCO World Heritage site
Welcome to Memphis and the Memphis Necropolis – Pyramid Fields from Giza to Dahshur, one of Egypt's cultural sites under UNESCO World Heritage protection. This site includes several well-defined areas beyond the Memphis Necropolis mentioned in its name. It was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1979 under the identification number "86". The Egyptian Old Kingdom's widely known monuments make this site the most visited place in the country. The two main areas are the Memphis Necropolis and the Pyramid Fields, which stretch over a nearly contiguous area of about 20 km. Let's start with the Dahshur Pyramids, located along the Nile River's flow direction. These pyramids are some of the earliest examples of true pyramids built by the pharaohs. They include the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both built during the reign of Pharaoh Sneferu. The Bent Pyramid is unique because of its unusual shape, while the Red Pyramid is the third-largest pyramid in Egypt. The ancient Memphis Necropolis is another significant part of this site. It is home to many tombs and temples, including the Saqqara North and South Necropolises. The Saqqara complex is famous for the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the first pyramid ever built in Egypt. The Abusir Pyramids, located nearby, were built during the Fifth Dynasty and include the Pyramid of Sahure and the Pyramid of Neferirkare. The Giza Pyramids and the Giza Necropolis are perhaps the most famous landmarks in Egypt. The Great Pyramid of Giza, also known as the Pyramid of Khufu, is the oldest and largest of the three pyramids in Giza. The other two pyramids are the Pyramid of Khafre and the Pyramid of Menkaure. The Sphinx, a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human, stands guard in front of the pyramids. The Red Pyramid, located in Dahshur, is another notable pyramid. It was built during the reign of Pharaoh Sneferu and is the third-largest pyramid in Egypt. The Bent Pyramid, also located in Dahshur, is unique because of its unusual shape. It was originally built at a steep angle but was later changed to a shallower angle. Other important structures in this site include the Unfinished Pyramid, the Mastaba of Seshemnefer, and the Colossus of Ramses II. The outdoor museum on the ancient Memphis site displays many artifacts from the area's history, including the statue of Ramses II lying down. In conclusion, Memphis and the Memphis Necropolis – Pyramid Fields from Giza to Dahshur are essential cultural sites in Egypt that offer visitors a glimpse into the country's rich history. From the Dahshur Pyramids to the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx, there is something for everyone to see and learn about. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore one of the world's most significant historical sites.
Location: Giza Governorate
Sources: Wikimedia, OpenStreetMap