Pyramid of Elephantine, Step pyramid on Elephantine Island, Egypt
The Pyramid of Elephantine is a step pyramid located on an island in the Nile near Aswan and stands about 5 meters tall. It was built from pink granite blocks held together with clay mortar, forming a core surrounded by two outer layers.
The monument dates to the Third Dynasty of Egypt's Old Kingdom and was long misunderstood. It was first correctly identified as a pyramid in the early 1900s and later thoroughly studied by German archaeologists.
The structure sits on a Nile island and shows how ancient Egyptians developed regional building styles in different areas. Visitors can see the use of pink granite blocks sourced locally, which was typical for this period.
The pyramid is located on the southwest side of the island and is accessible by boat across the river. It helps to explore the island with a local guide since the archaeological sites are scattered around.
A granite cone bearing an inscription from the pharaoh was found near the pyramid, providing a crucial link to understanding who built it. This discovery helped archaeologists connect the structure to a specific ruler and the period when it was constructed.
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