Dahshur Pyramids

Overview

Dahshur is a royal necropolis located about 40 km south of Cairo, home to two of the most architecturally significant pyramids in Egypt: the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both built by Pharaoh Sneferu around 2600 BC.

Highlights

• The Bent Pyramid: Its unique double-angled profile — changing from 54° to 43° partway up — records an ancient engineering correction in real-time.
• The Red Pyramid: Egypt's first true smooth-sided pyramid, which you can enter and descend deep into the burial chamber.
• Solitude: Unlike Giza, Dahshur receives minimal tourist traffic, allowing a peaceful desert experience.

History

Pharaoh Sneferu (father of Khufu) built both pyramids as part of the architectural evolution from the stepped pyramid to the true pyramid. The Bent Pyramid's angle change may reflect a structural crisis mid-construction, and the lessons learned were applied to the Red Pyramid.

Visitor Tips

• Enter the Red Pyramid: Free with your site ticket — descend a 63-metre passage to reach the burial chambers. The air inside is hot and pungent.
• Day Trip: Combine with Saqqara and Memphis for a full day.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.