Meidum At first glance, the object at Meidum does not look like a pyramid, it looks like some sort of tower, possibly a failed attempt at a step pyramid. However, upon closer examination, a few things can be noticed that show that this was, at least originally, a pyramid. Citation This is what remains of the pyramid at Meidum, built by Sneferu in the Fourth Dynasty (2613 - 2494 B.C.). Note the smooth rise towards the bottom of the pyramid that is visible within the rubble. The structure that is standing is the very strong interior of the pyramid that was unaffected by the collapse. This pyramid once looked similar to the other smooth pyramids, but had a major design flaw that caused its collapse. In this first diagram, the gravitation forces acting upon a well-built pyramid are shown. Notice how the arrows are going straight down. This limits the amount of damage that occurs due to weal spots in the structure. Citation Compare this to the diagram of the porrly-built pyramid. Note the arrows directing towards the edges. These lateral forces cause the base of the pyramid to give way, cause a massive structural failure, which is what happened in the pyramid at Meidum. The structure failed until the strong, step-pyramid-esq. core was the only part left standing. Citation A major achievement with this complex is the fact that, for the first time, tomb decoration was used. Citation This tomb decoration was found in Nefermaat's mastaba (Nefermaat was one of Sneferu's sons), which is located in the temple complex of this pyramid. It reads "He mades his hieroglyphs in writing that cannot be erased." This statement is a reference to the afterlife and the everlasting place of the pharaoh.. Learn about The Bent Pyramid Return to Meidum/Dahshur Main This site is maintained by Ryan Cohagan at Creighton University. Please feel free to visit our course syllabus. My e-mail address is cohagan@creighton.edu I would appreciate some feedback. Created: November 10, 2001 Updated: December 12, 2001