The pyramid of Unas Saqqara

The Pyramid Complex of Unas is located in the pyramid field at Saqqara, near Cairo in Egypt. It was built for pharaoh Unas, the ninth and final king of the Fifth Dynasty in the mid 24th century BC. Its ancient name, Nefer Isut Unas, means "Beautiful are the places of Unas". Originally reaching 43 metres (141 ft) high with a square base of 58 by 58 metres (190 ft × 190 ft), the pyramid is now completely ruined.

The Unas pyramid, when it was complete stood about 62 ft (18.5 m). The core of the pyramid was loose blocks and rubble and the casing was of limestone. Today it looks like a pile of dirt and rubble, especially from the east side. Although the outside of the pyramid is in ruin, the inside is still sound. You may enter the pyramid from the north side. Trying to block the way, are three huge slabs of granite. Once inside the chamber, you will find the Unas Pyramid Texts that were intended to help the pharaoh's soul in the afterworld. They were to help the soul find Re, the sun god.

The pyramid of Unas was built in the 5th Dynasty. Despite its size, this pyramid is very significant for having the first example of funerary texts known as Pyramid Texts. These texts were inscribed on the walls of the burial chamber and assisted the deceased pharaoh in his journey to the afterlife through instructive spells.

As with most pyramids, two temples linked by a long causeway compose part of the pyramid complex. The remains of the valley temple can be seen at the modern entrance to the site of Saqqara. Much of the causeway, which was elaborately decorated, has been removed and reused by later kings, but a part of it still remains offering visitors a glimpse of what it once looked like.

The pyramid of Unas Saqqara Egypt Secrets and Hidden Doors