Saqqara Step Pyramid

Saqqara Step Pyramid

Saqqara Step Pyramid

Explore the Saqqara Step Pyramid, an ancient wonder that showcases the creativity of Ancient Egypt. Built 4,700 years ago for Pharaoh Djoser, this proto-permamid structure is the oldest known large-scale stone structure. This article was written by a team of expert tour operators, academics, and travel consultants to provide comprehensive information about the Saqqara Step Pyramid.

 

The Saqqara Step Pyramid marks a pivotal point in the evolution of architecture, leading to the creation of the iconic pyramids of Giza. Its design set a precedent for subsequent monumental buildings, demonstrating the ancient Egyptians’ deep understanding of engineering and architecture.

 

Join our tours to delve into the rich history, intricate architecture, & enduring significance of the Saqqara Step Pyramid.

 

It was the final resting place of Pharaoh Djoser during Egypt’s Third Dynasty (approximately 4,700 years ago – c. 2780 BC). At the time, most royal and elite Ancient Egyptians were buried in Mastabas, rectangular funerary structures located over underground tombs.

 

However, Pharaoh Djoser wanted a new structure for his funeral.

 

The Step Pyramid was designed by Djoser's Vizier Imhotep, one of the most intelligent and innovative figures in ancient Egyptian history.

 

Imhotep's design transformed the traditional Mastaba into a square-based pyramid, making it the centerpiece of a vast mortuary complex. This complex was located in a huge courtyard and surrounded by majestic ceremonial structures and beautiful decorations. The construction of the Step Pyramid marked a turning point in the evolution of architecture, setting the stage for the development of later Egypt's iconic pyramids.

 

After 14 years of restoration, the pyramid reopened to tourists in March 2020, allowing modern explorers to witness its grandeur and historical significance.

 

Pharaoh Netjer-ykhet (Zoser or Djoser), his name means the sacre one, was the 1st or may be the 2nd ruler of Egypt during the 3rd Dynasty (2670–2650 B.C.) and the Old Kingdom (2686–2125 B.C.). King Netjer-ykhet ruled for 20 years, during which he commissioned the creation of the revolutionary Step Pyramid. Departing from the traditional mud brick mortar used before him to build the royal tombs, Zoser wanted to erect a unique and unprecedented burial structure.

His ambition led to the creation of the Step Pyramid, which utilized  limestone, becoming the first monumental structure ever made of stone. This innovative approach marked a significant departure from earlier funerary architecture and set a new standard for future generations.

 

More than a tomb, the Step Pyramid is a testament to Djoser’s reign, showcasing his vision and ambition. This architectural wonder inspired many of his successors, cementing the legacy of King Djoser as a key figure in the history of Ancient Egypt.

 

Architecture of Saqqara Step Pyramid

 

The pyramid is characterized by its six stepped levels, aligned almost perfectly with the four cardinal angles, which demonstrate the ancient Egyptians’ deep knowledge of astronomy and engineering. The pyramid complex is surrounded by a high protective wall 10.5 meters in height and has 14 doors. Only one of these doors is the entrance to the living, while the false doors symbolize the portal through which the pharaoh’s soul crosses over to the afterlife.

 

Saqqara Step Pyramid complex was the first of its kind and included various constructions necessary for the kingr’s journey to the afterlife and eternal resurrection. The king’s body was burried in a room at the base of the step pyramid, located in a maze of underground passages. The burial chamber was 13 feet long, sheathed in granite, and filled with millenary of stone vessels inscribed with the names of earlier Egyptian rulers, although it was later robbed.

Underneath the pyramid is an extensive labyrinth that reaches a depth of 28 meters and stretches for more than 6 kilometers. The network is connected by a central axis measuring 7 m2 and includes galleries, small corridors and tunnels. In these passages are more than 30,000 jars made of various stones such as slate, marble and alabaster, inscribed with the names of rulers of the First and Second Dynasties.

 

Construction of the Saqqara Step Pyramid

 

The Saqqara Step Pyramid is very important building as it is the oldest large-scale stone building and represents a key moment in ancient world architecture. It revolutionized stone architecture and royal funerals. This pyramid consists of six steps made of limestone, stacked on top of each other to form a base measuring 109 m x 125 m  and rising to a height of 62 m. The volume of the step pyramid is an impressive 330,400 m3 .

Underneath the pyramid is a vast labyrinth of chambers and galleries that stretches for 6 km and runs 28 meters deep through a central axis and 7 meters square. This design is reminiscent of the more famous Great Pyramid of Cheops.

Saqqara step pyramid complex offers many sites to visit, it will not be only the step pyramid, the Step, not so far from the step pyramid you will see the House of the South, the House of the North, the Heb Sed Court (a festival which occured when a king spends thirty years ruling Egypt), it is a celebration to show for everyone that king is still strong to continue ruling Egypt, There you will see the first columns ever made of stone in all the world, Saqqara complex's colonnade, consists of 40 columns attached to the wall, showcases the technique of engaged columns used to support theroof. One time there were statues between the Colonnade's rooms  either statues of king Zoser or local Egyptian gods statues .
the Serdab room with king Zoser statue, but it is a replica as the original statue is now in the Egyptian museum in Tahrir square,The Serdab, meaning 'Crypt' is a limestone structure located near the northern entrance of the Pyramid. The original statue is the oldest known life-sized Egyptian statuary and holds great significance for the king's soul in the afterlife. The courtyard of the complex contains thirteen small chapels within the House of the North and the House of the South.

House of the North and House of the South:
These 2 houses were symbolizing Upper and Lower Egypt. Upper Egypt which is south, Lower Egypt which is north.

 
The South Tomb:
The South Tomb features three carved panels depicting Djoser performing the Heb Sed ritual. The outer facade is plain and unadorned, but the interior is intricately designed with Djed pillars. 

 
The Northern Mortuary Temple:
The Northern Temple provided access to the underground passages leading to Djoser's burial chamber, a vault constructed of four courses of well-dressed granite. This vault had a single opening, sealed with a 3.5-ton block, though it was unfortunately robbed over time. The ceiling of the burial chamber is adorned with five stars, believed to be connected to the eternal North Stars that never set, symbolizing the pharaoh's eternity.

 

The Northern Walls:
The northern walls of the complex are decorated with reliefs and artworks depicting the king at the Heb Sed festival, which was believed to grant the pharaoh another 30 years of life. Inside the complex, intricate carvings, like one of a half-opened door, appear as actual doorways, representing symbolic passageways to the afterlife.

    all enclosed within a 10.5-meter-high wall. This protective wall was a sign of the importance of affording protection to the Zoser's final resting place.

The Step Pyramid Complex is a witness to the architectural brightness and the very great cultural and religious traditions of ancient Egypt, offering vital prescience into their desire of immortality.
In Saqqara yu will find other pyramids, such as Unas pyramid, king Teti pyramid, Shepseskaf pyramid, and various mastabas such as Meho, Idut, Mererucaa, Kagemni 

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