Red Pyramid
Al Jīzah
The Red Pyramid, also known as the North Pyramid and locally called el-heram el-watwaat (the Bat Pyramid), is the largest pyramid at the Dahshur necropolis near Cairo and the third largest in Egypt after the Great Pyramids of Giza. Constructed by Pharaoh Sneferu around 2575–2563 BCE, it represents Egypt's first successful attempt at a true smooth-sided pyramid, following earlier experimental pyramids that faced structural issues. The pyramid's distinctive reddish hue comes from its exposed limestone core, originally clad in smooth white Tura limestone, much of which was removed in medieval times. Standing 105 meters tall with a base width of 220 meters, it has a relatively shallow 43-degree slope, giving it a squat appearance compared to other pyramids. Inside, visitors can explore three corbelled chambers connected by passages designed with offsets likely to deter tomb robbers. The interior shows signs of ancient looting, including soot-blackened walls and damaged floors. The Red Pyramid was closed for many years due to a nearby military camp but is now accessible to tourists, featuring ventilation systems and wooden staircases for safer access. It remains a significant architectural milestone marking the evolution of pyramid construction in ancient Egypt.
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Tip: To fully appreciate the Red Pyramid, visit during the cooler months to avoid Egypt's intense heat. Tickets are generally available on-site, but purchasing them in advance can save time. The pyramid is usually open to visitors, but check ahead for any military-related closures. Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the steep internal passages and bring water. Guided tours are recommended to gain deeper insights into the pyramid's history and architecture. Photography is permitted, but respect site regulations and avoid flash in interior chambers.
Interesting facts
- •The Red Pyramid is the third largest Egyptian pyramid, after Khufu's and Khafre's pyramids at Giza.
- •Its reddish color comes from the exposed core limestone, as the original white limestone casing was largely removed in medieval times.
- •Local residents call it el-heram el-watwaat, meaning the Bat Pyramid.
- •The pyramid's internal chambers feature offset passages likely designed to confuse tomb robbers.
- •Fragments of a rare pyramidion (capstone) were found and reconstructed, though their original fit is uncertain.
History
Built by Pharaoh Sneferu between 2575 and 2563 BCE, the Red Pyramid was Egypt's first successful smooth-sided pyramid after earlier attempts at Meidum and the Bent Pyramid faced structural challenges.
Its design, with a 43-degree slope, reflects lessons learned from these predecessors to avoid collapse.
Construction estimates vary, with some scholars suggesting it took about 10-17 years.
Over centuries, the white Tura limestone casing was removed, revealing the characteristic red limestone beneath.
The pyramid was closed to tourists for many years due to a nearby army camp but has since reopened for public visits.
Place Guide
North Entrance and Descending Passagec. 2575–2563 BCE
Visitors enter the Red Pyramid via a northern entrance reached by climbing steps over the stones. The passage is about 3 feet high and 4 feet wide, sloping down at 27 degrees for 200 feet leading to the first chamber.
First Chamberc. 2575–2563 BCE
This chamber features a corbelled roof rising 40 feet high in eleven steps, aligned north-south. It has a smooth floor level with the passage and serves as the first main internal room within the pyramid.
Second Chamberc. 2575–2563 BCE
Located directly beneath the pyramid's apex, this chamber is similar to the first but offset to the west, connected by a short horizontal passage likely intended to confuse tomb robbers. It also has a corbelled roof and smooth floors.
Third Chamber (Burial Chamber)c. 2575–2563 BCE
Accessible via a large wooden staircase from the second chamber, this final chamber has a corbelled roof 50 feet high with an east-west alignment. Its floor is rough and sunken below passage level, believed to be due to tomb robbers searching for treasure. The walls and ceiling are blackened with soot from torches and destruction.
