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While the iconic pyramids of Egypt are universally recognized, their enormous size and flawless construction often give them an otherworldly presence, as if they were ancient artifacts inexplicably placed in the desert.
However, the pyramid shape is not exclusive to Egypt—both ancient and contemporary architects have frequently used it to craft remarkable structures. Below are 10 lesser-known pyramids that deserve as much recognition as the famed ones at Giza.
10. Mad Jack Fuller’s Mausoleum
The Egyptian pyramids served as both tombs and grand monuments dedicated to the pharaohs of Egypt. While most people might opt for a more humble resting place, one should expect something extraordinary from a man dubbed 'Mad Jack.'
In 1777, at just 20 years old, John 'Mad Jack' Fuller inherited a vast estate in England along with slave plantations in Jamaica. This newfound fortune enabled him to indulge his eccentricities without restraint.
As a member of parliament, he would make dramatic entrances to London, accompanied by heavily armed servants. His fiery temper was infamous, leading to his expulsion by parliament’s serjeant-at-arms. However, he was most renowned for his outlandish creations.
Mad Jack had a passion for construction. On his estate, he built a classical temple, an obelisk, a hollow tower, and a spire. But his crowning achievement was his tomb. While still alive, he designed a pyramid to be erected in the churchyard. Legends say his body was propped at a table set with wine, and broken glass was placed on the floor to catch the Devil if he came for Fuller.
9. German World War I Helmets
The pickelhaube, the iconic spiked German helmet worn by World War I soldiers, became a symbol of the feared 'Hun' enemy. Its distinctive design is still used in comedic references to depict ruthless military forces. After World War I, the victors needed a symbol of their victory. In New York, it was decided to create a pyramid made from captured German helmets.
A hollow pyramid was adorned with 12,000 pickelhaubes. The pyramid became a tool for fundraising in Victory Way, where people were encouraged to contribute to the 5th War Loan to help settle the US war debt. To emphasize the triumph of the Allies, the pyramid was crowned with a winged figure, likely representing Nike, the goddess of victory.
8. The Bent Pyramid
The Egyptian pyramids are often regarded as timeless examples of architectural perfection. However, some of the most renowned pyramids in Egypt are less than flawless. The earliest pyramids were not smooth but had steps with layers stacked upon one another.
The pyramid of Sneferu stands out for a different reason. Unlike most Egyptian pyramids, which feature sides sloping at around 51 degrees, Sneferu’s pyramid has slopes that change halfway up—from 55 to 43 degrees. This is why it is commonly referred to as 'The Bent Pyramid.'
The pyramid’s construction remains somewhat of a puzzle. It appears to have been built in three stages, with the walls shifting their angle three times. Scholars initially speculated that there might be a hidden chamber within the pyramid where Sneferu’s body remained. However, after using cosmic rays to scan the pyramid’s internal structure, researchers found no significant undiscovered rooms.
7. Brazil’s Pyramids
As pyramids have been discovered in ancient civilizations across the globe, some believe these cultures must have had some form of connection. In reality, the pyramid is simply one of the most efficient ways to create a towering structure.
Despite their external resemblances, the construction methods of pyramids varied greatly across regions. While the pyramids of Egypt were constructed using massive stone blocks, the pyramids in Brazil were built from seashells.
The Brazilian pyramids date back to approximately 3000 BC, making them older than the earliest Egyptian pyramids. It appears that these pyramids were built over a span of decades or even centuries.
Initially, scholars mistook these pyramids for waste disposal sites due to their composition of discarded seashells. Because they weren’t recognized as significant archaeological sites, fewer than 10 percent of Brazil’s pyramids remain today, with many dismantled during road construction.
6. Alexander Golod’s Pyramids
Not all pyramids are ancient tombs. Many 'alternative' researchers contend that pyramidal shapes hold mysterious powers. In his quest to explore so-called pyramid power, defense contractor Alexander Golod constructed several pyramids outside Moscow.
Golod’s pyramids are thoroughly modern structures. Made from metal and fiberglass, Golod built 20 pyramids over time, allowing him to delve into the potential powers of pyramid shapes.
So far, his findings include: Pyramids strengthen the immune system, seeds placed inside a pyramid grow into more abundant crops, pyramids can repair the ozone layer, and they may even cure impotence. However, mainstream scientists have yet to replicate these results.
Golod’s largest pyramid stood over 45 meters (150 ft) tall and weighed 55 tons. Despite its reputed powers, the pyramid was no match for a storm that struck Moscow in 2017, ultimately destroying the structure.
5. Koh Ker Pyramid
Hidden deep in the jungles of Cambodia lies the ancient city of Koh Ker, once the capital of the Khmer Empire before Angkor. While Angkor draws large crowds, Koh Ker remains less frequented by tourists.
This may be due to the fact that much of Koh Ker remains concealed in thick forest, and the area still contains mines left from the conflicts that ravaged Cambodia in the 20th century. Visitors who venture to Koh Ker can view the pyramid there.
The pyramid was constructed without mortar or concrete between the stone blocks, relying solely on the weight of the structure to keep it intact. Due to the deteriorated state of the stairs, those who wish to ascend must use newly installed wooden steps.
There is speculation that a hidden underground entrance to the pyramid may exist. Until it is uncovered, visitors can only admire the carvings on the pyramid’s exterior.
4. La Quemada Pyramids
La Quemada, located in Mexico, is an archaeological site shrouded in mystery. Scholars are divided on who built it and for what purpose. The site consists of various structures embedded into a hill, including several pyramids.
Most pyramids in Mesoamerica are vast, hill-shaped structures, utilizing a core of earth covered in stone. In contrast, the pyramids at La Quemada feature steep sides and a solid construction.
At the summit of the Votive Pyramid, which can be reached by wooden steps, stood a small temple where offerings were made to the gods. Another structure, the Sacrificial Pyramid, is believed to have been the site of human sacrifices, with victims cast down the stairs afterwards.
Recently uncovered bones suggest that the inhabitants of La Quemada might have practiced cannibalism, with cut marks and signs of burning present on some bones. Additionally, skulls with holes were found, potentially used for displaying heads, perhaps atop the pyramids.
3. Sudanese Pyramids
When you think of pyramids, Egypt likely comes to mind first. However, there is a neighboring country that actually has twice as many pyramids as Egypt.
Sudan is home to the ancient Nubian pyramids, which trace their origins back to the time when the Egyptian empire extended deep into what is now modern Sudan. It is believed that the Nubians built their pyramids in homage to their Egyptian neighbors.
The Nubians began constructing their pyramids around 700 BC, almost two millennia after the Egyptians. Their pyramids were smaller in size, and rather than entombing their dead inside the pyramids like the Egyptians, the Nubians buried the deceased beneath them.
Over the centuries, the pyramids of Sudan were raided for building materials, but they are now safeguarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are also becoming a popular destination for tourists looking to escape the crowds at the Giza pyramids.
2. Pyramids Of Argolis
In the second century AD, the ancient Greek historian Pausanias documented a site in Greece that travelers might find of interest. He wrote, 'On the way from Argos to Epidauria, there is on the right a building resembling a pyramid, and shields of the Argive shape are depicted in relief upon it.' While no remnants of this pyramid remain, other pyramids in Greece are still standing.
At Hellinikon, the ruins of a small stone pyramid exist. Initially, historians believed this pyramid was a tomb similar to the one described by Pausanias. However, modern archaeological research has revealed its purpose to be quite different.
Despite its unusual structure, this pyramid actually served as a defensive site. It was used to house guards who kept watch over the road that ran nearby.
1. Pyramid Of Cestius
By the time the Roman Empire emerged, Egypt's pyramids had already stood for millennia. It's believed that at least one Roman visitor to Egypt was so impressed by these colossal structures that he decided to have a pyramid of his own.
Constructed between 18 and 12 BC, the pyramid of Gaius Cestius is an unusual sight in Rome. There was once a larger pyramid in the city, but it was dismantled during the 16th century for building materials. Cestius’s pyramid likely survived because it was integrated into the city's defensive walls.
Cestius’s pyramid, which served as his tomb, features much steeper sides than the Egyptian pyramids. Roman engineers may have sought to improve upon the Egyptian design by using Roman concrete. While little is known about the man behind the pyramid, Cestius’s tomb remains a key attraction for visitors to Rome throughout history.
