Meidum Pyramid's three construction phases lack Sneferu attribution. Three distinct construction phases documented at Meidum Pyramid Originally built as a step mastaba, then widened and converted to true pyramid Casing stones slid off and fell around the pyramid during transformation
The Meidum Pyramid evolved through three construction phases—beginning as a step mastaba that was later widened into Egypt's first true pyramid. Yet here's the mystery: no inscriptions or contemporary records directly attribute its construction to Sneferu! Only casing stones added during the final phase bear his cartouche. The pyramid also contains the country's first corbelled vaulted ceiling, with casing stones that slid off and tumbled around the structure during its transformation.
Key Facts
- Three distinct construction phases documented at Meidum Pyramid
- Originally built as a step mastaba, then widened and converted to true pyramid
- Casing stones slid off and fell around the pyramid during transformation
- Contains the first corbelled (vaulted) ceiling in ancient Egypt
- No inscriptions or contemporary records attribute construction to Sneferu
- Only casing stones bear Sneferu's cartouche, added in third construction phase
Related site: Meidum Pyramid — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: Erased Egyptian Dynasty of Builders: Sneferu's 3 Pyramid Lie by DeDunking