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The pyramid was built by King Snefru
(a.k.a. Snofru or Soris in Greek), the king-founder of the 4th
dynasty.
The pyramid is unusual. About halfway to the peak the sloping
angle is reduced from a steep 52° to a calmer angle of 43.5°
forming a bent at that point.
There are many theories associated with the decision to change
the angle. Some say the collapse of Snefru's pyramid at Meidum
triggered his fears and in order to lessen stress that could
result in the collapse of this pyramid as well, Snefru decided
to reduce the angle. Other theory says that if the pyramid continued
at its original angle it would have required tremendous effort
and material, and so Snefru decided to cut expenses and save
effort by reducing the required work.
If the pyramid was to retain its initial sloping angle it could
have risen to a height of 128 meters (420 feet) but it's now
about 105 meters (334 feet) high.
The unusual thing about this pyramid is that it has its original
limestone encasing intact, something that not other pyramids
had retained.
Also uncommon is that the pyramid has two entrances to the north
and to the west side for unknown reason.
The west-side entrance in unlocked for the reason of being so
high and not possible to approach because of the intact encasing
that smoothens the pyramid's surface. To the south of the pyramid
is a smaller pyramid built for unknown purpose.
Nearby are the ruins of the associated temples of the Bent Pyramid. |
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