Pyramid of Itet at Saqqara In Egypt: Overview,Prominent Features,History,Interesting facts (2024)

Overview:

The Pyramid of Itet is located in Saqqara, Egypt. It is one of many small pyramids from the Third Intermediate Period. Itet was a son of pharaoh Mentuhotep II, who ruled Egypt during the Eleventh Dynasty. Itet's pyramid is one of the most neglected monuments, since it is usually overshadowed by neighboring larger monuments such as the Step Pyramid of Djoser. The pyramid originally stood around 17 meters high and was built of limestone and mud-brick. It had several false doors and several layers of burial chambers, with the innermost burial-chamber being a miniature version of a royal pyramid tomb. Itet was likely buried in a wooden coffin within the pyramid. The pyramid has been damaged by later looters, resulting in its destruction. Today, only a few ruins of the pyramid remain. The ruins, along with a few select items from within the pyramid, can be seen at the Saqqara Necropolis. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Egypt
Prominent Features:

The Pyramid of Itet is an Ancient Egyptian step pyramid located in Saqqara, Egypt. It is believed to have been constructed around 2490 BC during the reign of the Third Dynasty pharaoh Itet. The pyramid is the only example in Egypt of a two-step pyramid, as all other stepped pyramids were constructed during the Fifth Dynasty and later. The pyramid stands at a height of about 35 meters (115 ft) and is composed of a base and two stepped levels. The complex has a rectangular outer court that contains a large and deep offering chapel and a smaller inner court, added later. The two courts are connected via a short stairway.The facade of the pyramid is decorated with small white and yellow limestone plates and has two entrances on the north and south sides. Inside, the pyramid chambers and corridors are constructed from blocks of limestone with large monolithic jammed door slabs at several points. Two burial shafts flank the king’s chamber in the lower level.The burial chamber inside the pyramid is unusual, as it is square in shape and contains rock-cut pillars at each corner. Its walls are decorated with a frieze of jackal-headed cobras and its ceiling is decorated with scenes of Re-Atum, the sun god of the afterlife. The king’s burial chamber and sarcophagus remain empty and are assumed to have been looted in antiquity. The Pyramid of Itet is one of the most significant architectural structures of the Old Kingdom of Egypt. Its unique two-step form and unique design combine to make it an architectural marvel and a notable example of Ancient Egyptian engineering. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Egypt.

History:

The Pyramid of Itet was built during the 5th Dynasty of Egyptian history, c. 2450 BCE. It was located at the Saqqara necropolis, south of modern day Cairo. It is thought to have been constructed for the King Itet, who ruled during the 5th Dynasty.The pyramid itself was a stepped structure, classified as a "true pyramid". It was approximately three stories tall, and the base was originally 1000 by 1000 cubits, though it has since become smaller due to erosion and the sand encroaching upon it. It is known to have been one of the largest and most decorated pyramids in Saqqara. It contained a number of chambers, including two entrance chambers, an antechamber, and a burial chamber. The walls were adorned with scenes related to the afterlife, such as depictions of gods, goddesses, and offerings.The Pyramid of Itet is linked with a number of mythic stories. According to some accounts, it was built in honor of Itet's wife and is considered to be one of the most sacred sites associated with her. In addition, a passageway exists which some believe is related to the legend of Osiris.Though little of the original pyramid remains today, the structure still stands and is a popular tourist destination for those visiting Saqqara. Visit one of the famous monuments of Egypt with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Pyramid of Itet was the first monument considered a pyramid, though it is technically a step pyramid. 2. It was constructed under the rule of Pharaoh Djoser, the second king of the Third Dynasty, in the 27th century BCE. 3. The pyramid was built around the site of a tomb for the Pharaoh and was designed by the architect Imhotep. 4. It had six levels of stepped masonry and several low concentric walls built around it. 5. This pyramid was highly influential on later monuments, including the Bent Pyramid at Dahshur. 6. Over the entrance to the pyramid was a Stepped Pyramid, also known as a Protodynastic Pyramid, which represented the stairway into the afterlife. 7. The entrance was flanked by two lion statues which were believed to serve as the protectors of the dead king. 8. Inside of the pyramid were several underground passages leading to the burial chamber as well as a multitude of intact artifacts. 9. The pyramid complex also included other elements such as a large courtyard and a small pyramid with many inscriptions on it. 10. The Pyramid of Itet is located close to the Step Pyramid of Djoser and was once attached to it via a covered causeway. One of the historical monuments of Egypt, it tells the story of a bygone era

Explore Egypt most popular tourist destination with us. Pyramid of Itet at Saqqara In Egypt: Overview,Prominent Features,History,Interesting facts,which is 35.14 km away from Egypt main town, is the most popular destination to add in your travel wishlist.

City:
Egypt
state:
Saqqara.
country:
EG
country code:
Egypt
postcode:
13519

Location:

Saqqara. EG

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Pyramid of Itet at Saqqara In Egypt: Overview,Prominent Features,History,Interesting facts (2024)

Location:

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References