Black Pyramid
Archaeological Site Middle Kingdom pyramid of Amenemhat III at Dahshur
At Dahshur’s Black Pyramid, visitors examine the eroded remains of a 12th‑Dynasty royal tomb. People come for Egyptology, archaeological trenches and proximity to other Old Kingdom monuments rather than the polished Giza pyramids.
The Black Pyramid is a ruined Middle Kingdom royal pyramid in the Dahshur necropolis, Giza Governorate, built for the 12th Dynasty pharaoh Amenemhat III. Its core of mudbrick and stone is largely collapsed, giving the monument its modern name.
Remnants of the pyramid core and sections of the surrounding mortuary complex are visible on site; most decorative casing stone is gone and the external profile appears as a low, ruined mound. Archaeological features such as the foundation footprint, causeway traces and fragmentary substructures are the main points of interest.
Built during the 12th Dynasty for Amenemhat III (Middle Kingdom), the tomb complex was used as a royal mortuary site and later fell into ruin. Erosion and the instability of its mudbrick core led to extensive collapse over the millennia.
The pyramid stands in the Dahshur area of the Giza Governorate, on the desert plateau south of cairo and within the broader Memphite necropolis region.
- Conservation status: Constructed for a Middle Kingdom pharaoh of the 12th Dynasty, much of the superstructure has collapsed and interior access is restricted for safety and conservation reasons.
- Viewing note: Located in the Dahshur necropolis, the structure is distinct from the nearby Red Pyramid and Bent Pyramid and is best viewed from the surrounding plateau and approach paths.
What to See #
- Pyramid ruin and mortuary complex: The ruined mudbrick and stone pyramid core within a wider mortuary complex that includes the surviving causeway and traces of a mortuary temple; the pyramid is heavily ruined and its casing is gone.
Tips for Visiting Black Pyramid #
- Combine a visit to the Black Pyramid with a wider Dahshur/Saqqara half-day circuit and go early in the day to avoid desert heat and the busiest tour groups.
- Bring a guide or join a small guided visit-site signage is sparse and a guide will explain the pyramid's ruined mudbrick elements and surrounding Middle Kingdom cemetery features that many passersby miss.
- Allow time to walk around the pyramid field rather than just viewing the standing masonry from the approach; the site is less crowded than Giza but facilities are minimal, so plan accordingly.
Best Time to Visit Black Pyramid #
Best visited in the cooler months (roughly October-April) when outdoor exploration of the site is most comfortable.
Weather & Climate near Black Pyramid #
Black Pyramid's climate is classified as Hot Desert - Hot Desert climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and cool winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 7°C to 36°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 20°C and lows of 7°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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February
February is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 8°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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March
March is cool with highs of 25°C and lows of 10°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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April
April is mild with highs of 30°C and lows of 14°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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May
May is warm with highs of 33°C and lows of 17°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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June
June is warm with highs of 36°C and lows of 20°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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July
July is the hottest month, feeling like 28°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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August
August is hot, feeling like 28°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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September
September is warm with highs of 34°C and lows of 20°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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October
October is mild with highs of 30°C and lows of 17°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 12°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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December
December is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 8°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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