The Pyramids of Meidum
While many tourists follow the classic route to Giza and Saqqara, few know about the Meidum Pyramid — one of Egypt’s most mysterious archaeological treasures. Known as the Collapsed Pyramid, Meidum stands alone in the quiet desert, holding secrets that archaeologists believe are still hidden beneath its sands. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Meidum is absolutely worth the journey!
Where is Meidum Pyramid Located?
The pyramid lies 65 km south of Saqqara and can be reached via two main roads:
Route Option 1 – Saqqara Road
Drive past the Saqqara site for about an hour until the pyramid appears on the horizon.
Route Option 2 – Fayoum Desert Road (Faster)
Take the Fayoum road and merge onto the Asyut desert road until Meidum appears on your left.
Entrance Ticket: approx. 3 USD
Camera Ticket: approx. 1 USD
Who Built the Meidum Pyramid?
Originally built by King Huni, the last ruler of the 3rd Dynasty, the pyramid began as an 8-step structure. Later, his successor King Snefru — famous for the two Dahshur pyramids — completed the monument.
For centuries, historians mistakenly believed Snefru was the original builder due to inscriptions praising him found in the funerary temple east of the pyramid.
Today it is widely accepted:
Designed by Huni
Completed by Snefru
Why is it Called the Collapsed Pyramid?
From a distance, the pyramid looks like a massive stone tower. That’s because its outer casing and lower tiers collapsed in ancient times.
Height: 93 m
Base: 114 m per side
Its entrance sits 30 m above ground, leading to a unique wide descending passage where you won’t need to crouch — unlike most pyramids!
Inside, you’ll find:
- A rough underground chamber beneath the apex
- A ladder leading to the burial chamber
- Ancient cedar wood beams 4,600 years old
- A corbelled roof and a small empty chamber
Archaeologists believe… the pyramid still hides secrets undiscovered!
Treasures Around Meidum Pyramid
To the north, a cemetery of elite tombs from the 4th Dynasty was found in 1855:
Tomb of Rahotep & Nofret
Their statues are now masterpieces in the Egyptian Museum
Rahotep → Son of Snefru, Army commander & priest of Ra
Tomb of Nefermaat
Home to the famous Meidum Geese Painting — a world-renowned depiction of six geese in vibrant natural detail.
The Adventure Tomb (East Side)
One of the tombs without inscriptions offers a thrilling descent through:
- a robbery tunnel
- a shaft with a ladder
- a narrow crawlspace (tomb raider-style!)
- leading to a limestone burial chamber
Inside:
A massive sarcophagus with an ancient hammer stuck under the lid — left behind by tomb robbers thousands of years ago!
See more: memphis egypt
Funerary Temple + Lost Causeway
East of the pyramid stands a small preserved funerary temple featuring:
Ancient 19th Dynasty traveler graffiti
Block remains of the causeway
The valley temple (mummification site) was destroyed
Why You Should Visit Meidum
Quiet — no crowds
Atmospheric desert scenery
A true archaeology lover’s dream
A chance to explore untouched history
