Pyramid of el-Kula, Step pyramid near Naga el-Mamariya, Egypt
The Pyramid of el-Kula is a step pyramid with three tiers built near Naga el-Mamariya in Aswan. The base extends about 19 meters across, and it now stands roughly 8 meters high, constructed from local limestone blocks joined together with clay and Nile silt.
The monument was built in ancient times as part of a series of pyramid projects outside Egypt's major cities. European scholars first documented it during the 1800s, and a systematic excavation in the mid-20th century revealed more about its structure.
The pyramid stands as part of a group of smaller step pyramids scattered across southern Egypt, showing how local builders developed their own methods. Visitors notice that this monument was built far from major royal centers and explored different building approaches.
The monument sits in a remote area of Aswan and needs proper planning to visit. Bringing sturdy footwear is advisable since paths are uneven and ground conditions can vary.
The structure has an unusual alignment where its corners point toward the cardinal directions, possibly influenced by the nearby Nile's geography. This feature sets it apart from other Egyptian pyramids and raises questions about regional building practices.
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