Meidum Pyramid: Mystery of Egypt's only unclaimed pyramid

December 15, 2025

EgyptGeneral

Pyramid complex3000 - 1500 BC

Source: The Unknown Pyramids of Egypt: Shocking Discoveries by Universe Inside You

Meidum Pyramid is Egypt's first true pyramid and one of the earliest never officially inscribed for a pharaoh! Originally ~93m tall as a step pyramid, now reduced to about 65m due to collapse. Evidence suggests structural failure, possibly exacerbated by quarrying. The site's mastabas and mortuary complex provide crucial insights into Early Kingdom tomb architecture! 🏛️❓

Key facts claimed:

- Meidum Pyramid is the only completed pyramid in Egypt never officially claimed by a pharaoh

- Currently 65 meters tall, originally estimated at 93 meters

- Attributed to Sneferu based on later inscriptions and architectural style, but attribution uncertain — initially built for Pharaoh Huni before completion under Sneferu

- Originally built as seven-step pyramid (E1), extended to eight steps (E2), then transformed to smooth-sided pyramid (E3)

- Final face angle about 52.6°, almost identical to Great Pyramid

Key facts

Meidum Pyramid is the only completed pyramid in Egypt never officially claimed by a pharaoh
Currently 65 meters tall, originally estimated at 93 meters
Attributed to Sneferu based on later inscriptions and architectural style, but attribution uncertain
Originally built as seven-step pyramid (E1), extended to eight steps (E2), then transformed to smooth-sided pyramid (E3)
Final face angle about 52.6°, almost identical to Great Pyramid
Exterior thoroughly ruined - only inner structure remains as truncated tower
Surrounded by extensive rubble heap, previously thought to be from catastrophic collapse
Now believed to have failed gradually from human quarrying for building projects
Small mortuary temple on eastern face is oldest fully intact building in world
Temple contains two large uninscribed stelae, deepening ownership mystery
Entrance high on north face about 18 meters above ground
Descending passage tall enough to walk almost upright
Vertical shaft connecting lower system to upper chamber is one meter square, 6.5 meters high