Never received enough credit and not known among tourists, as the major three pyramids in Egypt. The Bent pyramid is a fascinating structure which raises as many questions as it answers about the evolution of the pyramid. Mysteriously, this pyramid started at one angle (approx. 52 degrees) and then suddenly changes to a more gradual angle of 43 degrees. This odd arrangement provides this pyramid with a distinctive and unique appearance. There are several possible reasons for this change in angle. Currently, the most widely accepted theory is that King Sneferu realized that if he were to continue the pyramid at its initial angle, it would rise to a height that would require a tremendous amount of material and labor. Another theory holds that the original angle resulted in the displacement of many blocks and cracking of the blocks that lined the chambers and passageways. This theory continues that the gentler angle was employed to reduce the amount of weight to be added above these chambers and passageways.

This pyramid boasts of the most intact casing of any pyramid in Egypt. Although parts of the casing are crumbling away, this pyramid gives the best idea of the sparkling brilliance that the pyramids of Egypt had before their casings were stripped away. Mostly these casings were removed and the limestone from the casings were used to build many other structures in Egypt.

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Although the body of Sneferu has not been found and may have been disposed of long ago by thieves, few experts believe that Sneferu was buried in this pyramid. Most believe that he was buried in the next pyramid to be built to the north, now called the Red Pyramid.

You might be interested in reading about other Pyramids. Please go to Egypt Tours of Chicago website

The Pyramids of Egypt