Seila

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SEILA:
Is this a pyramid?

At Seila, in a location few venture to see, a pyramid-like structure challenge researchers'minds. It is a step pyramid, of four steps, and its ruins stand today 7 metres high. Its original height was higher, with its base length of 25 metres.

The structure goes back to the 4th Dynasty king, Snefru's, reign, making it older than the pyramids at Giza. There are several theories about its function, and it could well have been an early attempt to build a funerary structure; Snefru is accredited with 3 other pyramids, making him the first king to build true pyramid. Before him, as step pyramids was the highest form of royal burial ground.

But the most accepted theory makes this the northernmost of 7 provincial pyramids; with the southernmost at Elephantine. These structures may well have been linked to administrative demarcation, or as a symbol of royal power, or marking the location of a royal residence. Most of these structures were built before the one at Seila, by King Huni, who is considered the last king of the 3rd Dynasty, although being the father of Snefru.

Practicalities
All necessities are in Fayoum, which also is the place to organize for the journey out here.

Going Next
20 km west: Fayoum Oasis