Meidum

The Meidum Pyramid is located about 72 km south of Cairo in Egypt's Beni Suef Governorate. It is an important step in the evolution of pyramid construction, bridging the gap between early step pyramids and the more refined smooth-sided pyramids that would later become iconic in ancient Egypt.

Architectural Evolution:
The pyramid underwent three major phases of construction:

Phase 1: It started as a seven-step pyramid, approximately 65 meters in height.
Phase 2: An additional step was added, increasing its height and complexity.
Phase 3: The steps were filled and encased with fine limestone, transforming the pyramid into a smooth-sided structure, reaching an estimated height of 85 meters.
This design is one of the earliest attempts at a true pyramid, marking an important development in ancient Egyptian architecture.

Collapse and Current State:
Unfortunately, the Meidum Pyramid partially collapsed, likely due to structural weaknesses. The sandy foundation and inadequate support for the steps contributed to instability, causing the outer casing to fall off. Today, only four steps remain, and the pyramid stands at around 45 meters tall.

Associated Structures:
Nearby, there are remnants of a mortuary temple, but the valley temple, a feature of most pyramid complexes, is absent. This suggests the pyramid was never fully completed or operational.

Visitor Information:
Location: Near the village of Meidum, approximately 72 km south of Cairo.
Accessibility: The site is accessible by road and can be visited through tours from Cairo.
Best Time to Visit: The best months are from March to May and September to November, when the weather is pleasant.
The Meidum Pyramid remains a fascinating example of early pyramid construction, offering insight into the innovations and challenges faced by ancient Egyptian builders.