Teti Pyramid: A Glimpse into Ancient Egypt's 6th Dynasty

The Pyramid of Teti, situated in the Saqqara necropolis, offers a unique window into the Old Kingdom of Egypt. Constructed around 2300 BC for Pharaoh Teti, the founder of the 6th Dynasty, the pyramid stands as a testament to ancient Egyptian architectural and religious practices. Originally, the Pyramid of Teti was a smooth-sided structure, rising to a height of 52.5 meters. It was built with a core of local limestone blocks and debris, encased in fine limestone. Over time, the outer casing was removed, leading to the erosion of the core and giving the pyramid its current appearance as a small hill. Despite its deteriorated exterior, the pyramid's substructure remains relatively intact. Inside, the pyramid features a layout similar to that of Unas, though slightly larger. A descending passage leads to a horizontal passage, which was originally blocked by three portcullises. The antechamber and burial chamber are decorated with Pyramid Texts, a collection of spells and hymns intended to aid the king's journey into the afterlife. The burial chamber houses a well-preserved basalt sarcophagus, the first of its kind to feature inscriptions. The ceiling of the burial chamber is adorned with stars, adding to the mystique of the site. Surrounding the pyramid are the remnants of a funerary complex, including a mortuary temple and the pyramids of Teti's queens. Although the valley temple has yet to be discovered, the complex provides insights into the rituals and ceremonies performed in honor of the deceased pharaoh.