There is no doubt that the pyramids are among the most gigantic buildings that interest many people around the world.
Egypt is certainly the first country that comes to mind when mentioning the pyramids because it is the country that cares most about pyramids in the world, but what countries have pyramids?
In this article, we will learn together about the countries that have pyramids, their number, and the number of pyramids in the world.
The pyramids are memorial shrines that most civilizations are interested in building as evidence of culture and development.
The pyramids were built for various purposes, including burying kings and queens in them, and used as places of worship.
Although there are more than 20 countries around the world that have pyramids from China in the east to Mexico in the west, the Egyptian pyramids are the crown of the world's pyramids.
The Egyptian pyramids have gained great fame compared to the pyramids of other countries and are recognized worldwide.
The pyramids are one of the greatest ancient monuments which attract Tourists from all over the world.
Egypt is the most famous country in the world for having pyramids, but there are pyramids in many countries of the world, Below we will mention what countries have pyramids:
Egypt
Egypt is one of the country's most famous for its ancient pyramids. There are approximately 135 pyramids in Egypt, The Giza Pyramids are the most renowned pyramids site in the world because they include the Great Pyramid and the Sphinx.
Sudan
There are approximately 240 pyramids in Sudan called Nubian pyramids it is smaller and narrower than the Egyptian pyramids Which gives it a distinctive beauty and shape, and it was used as a tomb for kings and queens.
China
The pyramids in China are used for burial mounds and there are many pyramids in China as the white great pyramid There are also hills resembling Egyptian pyramids in Anlong County in southwest China.
Indonesia
There is a stepped pyramid temple in Indonesia called Candi Sukuh.
Scientists in Indonesia have discovered that there is a pyramid buried underground called Gunung Padang, which is a giant and ancient pyramid and even older than the pyramids of Giza.
Iraq
The Ziggurat of Ur is a large step pyramid that was built in the time of the Sumerians It was built by King Ur-Nammu in 2100 BC and was dedicated to the worship of the moon god and wisdom.
Bosnia
Some mountain hills were discovered in Bosnia and they were called the Bosnian pyramids.
Nigeria
The Nsud Pyramid is located in the village of Nsud, located in southeastern Nigeria, and was built in the 1930s.
Italy
There is a pyramid in Italy called Cestius that was built in the Roman era between 8 and 12 BC.
Mexico
Continuation the answer to the question of what countries have pyramids Mexico has the largest pyramid on Earth, called the Great Pyramid of Cholula There are also several other pyramids, such as El Castillo, Calakmul, and the Pyramid of the Sun Which is one of the largest buildings in Teotihuacan and was built in 2000 BC.
There is also the Pyramid of the Moon, which is the second largest building in Teotihuacan after the Pyramid of the Sun.
Japan
The Yonaguni Pyramids in Japan were discovered in 1987. It was discovered that this pyramid includes a comprehensive city, and it was built under the sea and did not sink.
Most people immediately think of Egypt when talking about pyramids, especially the world-famous Giza pyramids. However, the country that holds the record for the highest number of pyramids worldwide is Sudan.
Sudan’s Nubian Pyramids
Sudan is home to approximately 255 pyramids, more than twice the number in Egypt, which has about 118 pyramids. These pyramids are called Nubian pyramids. They were constructed by the ancient Kushite kingdoms in the Nubia region along the Nile River.
Differences from Egyptian Pyramids
Unlike the Egyptian pyramids, Nubian pyramids are generally smaller, narrower, and have steeper sides. They are mainly built from red sandstone, which gives them a distinct look. Egyptian pyramids, on the other hand, were mostly built from limestone and have a gentler slope.
Historical and Archaeological Importance
The Nubian pyramids served as royal tombs for kings, queens, and nobles from around 800 BCE to 350 CE. Major sites with these pyramids include Meroë, Napata, Nuri, and Jebel Barkal. Despite their importance, Nubian pyramids are less visited than Egyptian ones, offering visitors a unique and less crowded glimpse into ancient African history.
Why Does Sudan Have the Most Pyramids?
Sudan has more pyramids than any other country in the world, primarily because of its ancient Nubian civilization. The pyramids in Sudan were built by the Kushite Kingdoms, which ruled the region known as Nubia along the Nile River. This kingdom thrived from about 800 BCE to 350 CE.
Architectural Uniqueness
Unlike Egyptian pyramids, the Nubian pyramids are smaller, narrower, and have steeper sides. They are primarily constructed from red sandstone, distinguishing them visually and culturally.
Reasons for the High Number of Pyramids
The high number of pyramids in Sudan arises from:
The Kushite rulers’ long-lasting dynasties.
The continuous burial tradition over many centuries.
The multiple royal cemeteries spread across sites like Meroë, Napata, and Nuri.
Why Are Sudanese Pyramids Less Known?
Despite their number, Sudanese pyramids are less famous due to smaller size, historical neglect, geographic remoteness, and limited tourism compared to Egypt’s pyramids. However, they represent a critical part of Africa's ancient heritage and archaeological history.
How Are Sudan’s Pyramids Different from Egypt’s?
Feature
Egypt’s Pyramids
Sudan’s Pyramids
Fame
World-famous, major tourist sites
Less known, hidden gems
Size
Massive structures like the Great Pyramid of Khufu
Smaller but more numerous
Shape
Broader base, gentle slopes
Narrow base, steeper angle
Setting
Near bustling Cairo
In quiet, open desert settings
Why Visit Sudan’s Pyramids?
Sudan’s pyramids, especially those at Meroë, offer an extraordinary travel experience unlike more crowded and commercialized sites elsewhere. Here are key reasons why you should visit:
Unique and Less Crowded Sites
Sudan is home to over 255 pyramids, far exceeding Egypt’s count. Unlike Egypt’s famous pyramids that attract large crowds, Sudan’s pyramids remain relatively undiscovered by mass tourism, allowing you to explore impressive archaeological sites with minimal visitors.
Rich Ancient History
These pyramids are linked to the ancient Kushite Kingdom, a powerful civilization that rivaled Egypt’s during its height. Visiting offers unique insight into African history, culture, and architecture distinct from Egyptian traditions.
Stunning Desert Landscapes
Located in the scenic deserts of Northern Sudan, the Meroë pyramids rise dramatically from vast orange sand dunes. The remote setting offers breathtaking views and a chance to connect deeply with nature and history.
Authentic Local Experience
Sudanese hospitality and local sites around Meroë provide an authentic cultural experience. Visitors often find welcoming communities, traditional markets, and unique souvenirs, making your trip meaningful beyond the ruins.
Growing Recognition and Preservation
With recent restoration efforts and UNESCO World Heritage status, the Sudanese pyramids are gaining international attention while still maintaining their raw, untouched charm.
Practical Advantage
Accessible via day trips from Khartoum, visiting Sudan’s pyramids is increasingly convenient for curious travelers looking to venture beyond well-trodden paths.
Which country has 3 pyramids?
Egypt is famous for the three pyramids of Giza, Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, which were built during the Fourth Dynasty.
Khufu Pyramid
It is called the Great Pyramid and is the largest of the three. It was constructed 2580- 2560 BC and took 20 years to build. When it was built, its height was about 147 meters, but now it is 138 meters as a result of the pyramid stones losing their outer covering over the years.
The Great Pyramid of Giza is one of the only Seven Wonders of the World that still exists today.
Khafre pyramid
Khafre pyramid is the middle pyramid of three pyramids of Giza and was constructed 2558-2532 BC. This pyramid appears taller than the Pyramid of Khufu because it sits on a higher rock, but its actual height is less than the Pyramid of Khufu, and its height is 143.5 meters. It was built by King Khafre, one of the kings of the Fourth Dynasty, the son of King Khufu.
Menkaure pyramid
Menkaure pyramid is the smallest pyramid of the three pyramids of Giza and was constructed 2530- 2503 BC its height is 65 meters. It was built by King Mankaure.
Which country has the greatest number of ancient pyramids
As we know what countries have pyramids, you may like to know which country has the largest number of pyramids in the world. Sudan has the largest number of pyramids in the world, approximately 250 pyramids. It was said that the Egyptian pharaohs were the ones who built these pyramids. It was also noted that the inhabitants of the Kush region in Sudan here were the ones who built these pyramids to use as tombs for kings and queens.
Meroe Necropolis is the most famous archaeological site, including nearly 200 pyramids in Sudan.
Although there are no specific statistics on the number of pyramids in the world the search is still ongoing for the existence of pyramids in most countries of the world.
The world includes thousands of pyramids in many countries and we have learned what countries have pyramids.
There are approximately 138 pyramids in Egypt, 240 in Sudan, more than 100 in Mexico, 38 in China, and more than 30 in Peru.
Are there any pyramids in the USA
Yes, there are many pyramids in the United States of America. Some of them are made of stones, like the Egyptian pyramids, and others resemble earthen hills. Below we will mention some of the names of the pyramids in the United States of America
Cahokia.
ViA 57 West.
Luxor Las Vegas.
Memphis prymid.
Mississippian culture.
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Conclusion
The question of which countries have pyramids is still controversial because most people do not know that other countries besides Egypt have pyramids. However, this article clarified the other countries that have pyramids.
Frequently Asked Questions
1What are the top countries known for pyramids?▶
Egypt, Sudan, Mexico, and Peru are the most famous countries known for their pyramids. Egypt is renowned for its ancient limestone pyramids, like those at Giza. Sudan surprisingly has more pyramids than Egypt, especially in Nubia. Mexico and Peru have step pyramids built by the Maya, Aztecs, and Incas.
2Do any European countries have ancient pyramids?▶
While Europe is not traditionally associated with pyramids, Bosnia claims to have ancient pyramid-like structures, such as the "Bosnian Pyramid of the Sun." However, most archaeologists consider them natural hills. No verified ancient pyramids have been discovered in Europe to match those in Africa or the Americas.
3Which African countries besides Egypt have pyramids?▶
Sudan is the main African country besides Egypt with pyramids — in fact, it has over 200 pyramids, mostly in Meroë and Nuri. These Nubian pyramids are smaller and steeper but rich in royal burial history.
4Can you visit pyramids in multiple countries on one trip?▶
Yes! You can plan a multi-country trip to visit pyramids in Egypt, Sudan, and Mexico. Many tour operators offer packages that combine archaeological adventures across continents. With the right itinerary, you can explore Egyptian, Nubian, and Mesoamerican pyramids all in one unforgettable journey.
