The pyramid of Djedkarê Isési, located at Saqqara in Egypt, is a remarkable monument built for the Pharaoh Djedkare Isesi of the XNUMXth dynasty. The structure bears witness to the evolution of the architecture of the pyramids during the Old Kingdom. Although the pyramid is now largely in ruins, it offers valuable insight into the history and culture of the time.
History and background
Djedkare Isesi was a pharaoh of the XNUMXth dynasty, who reigned around 2414-2375 BC. Saqqara, where its pyramid is located, is a vast necropolis which served as a burial site for the pharaohs of theOld Kingdom, and several other pyramids were built there. The pyramid of Djedkarê Isési bears witness to the importance of this site at the time.
Architecture of the pyramid
The pyramid of Djedkare Isesi, although largely in ruins today, was once an impressive structure. It was built using limestone blocks and has a slightly inclined shape, resulting from a design change during construction.
- The mortuary temple : Located to the east of the pyramid, the mortuary temple was an essential element of the funerary complex. It was once richly decorated with bas-reliefs and murals depicting scenes from daily life and religious rituals.
- The rising causeway : The rising causeway is a paved ramp that connected the mortuary temple to the valley below. It allowed priests and members of the royal family to access the temple to perform funeral rites.
- The mastabas : Several mastabas, rectangular tombs typical of ancient Egypt, are located around the pyramid. They served as burial places for members of the royal family and high officials of the court of Djedkarê Isési.
Archaeological finds and current state
Despite its state of ruin, the pyramid of Djedkarê Isési has revealed a great deal of information on the architecture and funerary practices of the time. Archaeological excavations have uncovered remains of the mortuary temple, the rising causeway and the mastabas.
The site has suffered looting and natural erosion over the centuries, but it remains an important place for scholars and history buffs, offering valuable insight into ancient Egypt.
Average temperatures and climate
Month | (° C) | (° F) | Weather | Climate |
---|---|---|---|---|
January | 14 | 57 | ☀️ | Sec |
February | 15 | 59 | ☀️ | Sec |
Mars | 19 | 66 | ☀️ | Sec |
April | 23 | 73 | ☀️ | Sec |
May | 27 | 81 | ☀️ | Sec |
June | 30 | 86 | ☀️ | Sec |
July | 32 | 90 | ☀️ | Sec |
August | 32 | 90 | ☀️ | Sec |
September | 29 | 84 | ☀️ | Sec |
October | 25 | 77 | ☀️ | Sec |
November | 20 | 68 | ☀️ | Sec |
December | 16 | 61 | ☀️ | Sec |
Schedules and info
- Opening hours: 8:00 a.m. to 17:00 p.m. (times may vary depending on the season)
- Entrance fee: 60 EGP
- Average price for a guide: 150-250 EGP
Other pyramids
List of Egyptian Pyramids |
Lower Egypt |
Upper Egypt |