Sudan Boasts More Pyramids Than Egypt, But Conflict Threatens Ancient wonders
For many, the image of pyramids instantly evokes thoughts of Egypt – the land of pharaohs and elaborate tombs. Egypt is indeed home to 118 pyramids, including the famed Giza pyramid complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site attracting millions of tourists annually. However, despite their global recognition, Egypt doesn’t actually hold the title for the country with the moast pyramids.
That distinction belongs to Sudan.
Located in northeast Africa, Sudan is home to approximately 240 pyramids, surpassing the number found in Egypt. These structures, known as nubian pyramids, where built by the Kushite kingdoms in the Nile valley region of Nubia – modern-day northern Sudan.
Dating back as far as the 7th century BC, the Nubian pyramids served a similar purpose to their Egyptian counterparts: as burial sites for royalty and the elite of the Kushite Kingdom. While influenced by Egyptian designs and building techniques from the new Kingdom period (16th to 11th century BC), the Nubian pyramids possess their own distinct characteristics.
Once a destination for adventurous tourists, Sudan’s pyramids now face a grave threat.Ongoing conflict has left the UNESCO-protected pyramids of Meroe, located 124 miles north of Khartoum, in a state of ruin. The civil war has halted essential maintenance, leaving the ancient structures vulnerable to damage from both natural elements and neglect.
Other significant pyramid sites in Sudan include Al-Kurru, Nuri, and Jebel Barkal – another UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting a well-preserved field of pyramids and temples.
Despite holding a world record for pyramid quantity and possessing a rich history, Sudan’s cultural treasures remain overshadowed by the country’s ongoing struggles with violence, political instability, and economic hardship. The future of these ancient wonders hangs in the balance,a stark reminder of how conflict can threaten our shared global heritage.