Remains of pyramid built 3,700 years ago found in Egypt

The remains of a 13th dynasty pyramid, discovered north of King Senefru's Bent Pyramid in the Dahshur necropolis, 30 kilometres south of Cairo, Egypt. Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities Handout / EPA

CAIRO // The remains of an Egyptian pyramid built around 3,700 years ago have been discovered near the well-known Bent Pyramid of King Snefru, the antiquities ministry announced on Monday.

The newly discovered pyramid from the 13th dynasty was found in Dahshur’s royal necropolis, 30 kilometres south of Cairo.

“An alabaster ... block engraved with 10 vertical hieroglyphic lines” was among the finds, the ministry said, citing Adel Okasha, director general at the necropolis.

It said “granite lintel and stony blocks showing the interior design of the pyramid” were also found.

Excavation is still in its early stages and the size of the pyramid has not yet been established. Blocks of stones and the beginning of a corridor are shown in photos provided by the ministry.

“All the discovered parts of the pyramid are in very good condition and further excavation is to take place to reveal more parts,” it said.

Egypt, which is home of one of the world’s earliest civilisations, boasts 123 ancient pyramids, said Zahi Hawas, former head of the Supreme Council of Antiquities.

These include the world-famous Pyramids of Giza, which were constructed around 4,500 years ago.

* Agence France-Presse