|
Maidum Pyramid of Snefru
The pyramid of Maidum was originally a seven-stepped pyramid. It
was enlarged to an eight-stepped pyramid. Eventually the steps
were filled in and a smooth outer facing turned it into a true
pyramid. It stands on the desert's edge and is the only
structure in the vicinity. It is a huge structure that is
surrounded by the debris from the casing that collapsed.
 The Maidum Pyramid is thought to have been started by Huni, the
last ruler of the 3rd Dynasty, and then completed by his son,
Sneferu (Snofru). Sneferu was the first 4th Dynasty pharaoh
(2613 - 2494 BC).
The original size of the pyramid was 144m square and 42m high.
The entrance into the pyramid is on the north side up a 30m
stairway. A passageway descends down 57m to a level that is
below the pyramid's foundation. The passageway levels out and
comes to a vertical shaft that leads up to the burial chamber.
This chamber has a corbelled roof and the walls are lined in
limestone. The construction timbers are still visible in this
room. The chamber is on the same level as the pyramid's
foundation. |
