Most people in the world are unaware of the Nubian Pyramids of Sudan – the counterparts of famous Egyptian pyramids. Much smaller than their counterparts, the Nubian Pyramids are almost double in number than those in Egypt. These ancient pyramids belong to the kings of the Nubian empire and were constructed between 4th century BC and 3rd century AD. The pyramids enshrine graves of royal elite and priests of the highest ranks of that time.

These ancient pyramids belong to the kings of the Nubian empire and were constructed between 4th century BC and 3rd century AD. The pyramids enshrine graves of royal elite and priests of the highest ranks of that time.

The Nubian pyramids can be classified in three major groups. The pyramids at Nuri are located in Upper Nubia in the west of the Nile. This burial place consists of the graves of 21 kings, together with 52 queens and princes. The pyramids of Meroe were built during the Meroitic Period and over forty kings and queens were buried at Meroe. Almost forty generations of Nubian royalty are laid to rest in these pyramids.

Lastly the Pyramids of El-Kurru are known as the first of all Nubian pyramids. These pyramids This site consists of the tombs of King Kashta and his son Piye (Piankhi) with five earlier generations, together with Piye’s successors Shabaka, Shebitqo and Tanwetamani and their queens.

Besides mummified bodies, the Nubian pyramids of Sudan contained arsenal, furniture, pottery and other artifacts. In the ancient times, most of the pyramids were devastated but the tomb chapels were preserved.