Black Pyramid Archaeological Site

Address: Black Pyramid (Dahshur necropolis), Giza Governorate, Egypt (Black Pyramid of Amenemhat III)

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.

• 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.