Pyramid of Unas Cairo
Discover the Pyramid of Unas in Saqqara, home to the world's first hieroglyphic Pyramid Texts, offering a unique historical and spiritual journey.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, cooler inside
Pyramid of Unas Cairo
Best Time
Less crowded, cooler inside
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the Pyramid of Unas in Saqqara, home to the world's first hieroglyphic Pyramid Texts, offering a unique historical and spiritual journey.
"The Pyramid of Unas is a must-visit for its exquisite hieroglyphs and historical significance, offering a comfortable interior experience."
🎯 Entry Included with Site Ticket
No extra ticket needed for the Pyramid of Unas; it's included with your Saqqara Necropolis admission. :ticket:
🚶♂️ Squat Walk Required
Be prepared for narrow passages requiring squatting or crawling. Not ideal for those with severe mobility issues. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pyramid Texts Inscriptions
Burial Chamber
Witness the world's first hieroglyphic funerary texts, inscribed on walls and ceilings, guiding the pharaoh to the afterlife.
Saqqara Necropolis
Saqqara, Egypt
Explore the broader historical site, home to the first pyramid and offering a rich, less crowded ancient Egyptian experience.
Comfortable Interior Exploration
Inside the Pyramid
Experience a less humid and more manageable interior than larger pyramids, with a shorter, though still narrow, passageway.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Saqqara's Gems
Inside the Pyramid: What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Entry Included with Site Ticket
No extra ticket needed for the Pyramid of Unas; it's included with your Saqqara Necropolis admission. :ticket:
🚶♂️ Squat Walk Required
Be prepared for narrow passages requiring squatting or crawling. Not ideal for those with severe mobility issues. :athletic_shoe:
✨ Admire the Hieroglyphs
The exquisite, ancient hieroglyphic inscriptions are the main highlight. Take your time to appreciate them. :star:
💰 Tip the Guide
A guide inside may demonstrate materials. A small tip is appreciated for their effort. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Entry Included with Site Ticket
No extra ticket needed for the Pyramid of Unas; it's included with your Saqqara Necropolis admission. :ticket:
🚶♂️ Squat Walk Required
Be prepared for narrow passages requiring squatting or crawling. Not ideal for those with severe mobility issues. :athletic_shoe:
✨ Admire the Hieroglyphs
The exquisite, ancient hieroglyphic inscriptions are the main highlight. Take your time to appreciate them. :star:
💰 Tip the Guide
A guide inside may demonstrate materials. A small tip is appreciated for their effort. :moneybag:
🗺️ Explore Saqqara
Combine your visit with other Saqqara sites for a richer historical experience. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Pyramid of Unas for its historical significance, particularly the groundbreaking Pyramid Texts, and a more comfortable interior experience compared to larger pyramids. While the narrow passages require some physical effort, the exquisite hieroglyphs are a major draw. It's considered a must-visit within the Saqqara Necropolis for its unique historical value.
"The most beautiful pyramid to visit from inside, it's located in Sakkara, Egypt. It was built to be a royal tomb for the pharaoh Unas , the last king of the fifth dynasty about 24th century BC . It's particularly famous for being the first pyramid to have pyramid texts , it's a collection of religious spells inscribed on the walls of the burial chamber to help the soul of the dead to travel and to find its way in the afterlife
To visit this pyramid, it's with the same ticket of the site, no extra ticket, it's open till midday 12:00"
Mohamed Omar
"This is part of the Saqqara Necropolis
The pyramid of Unas was built in the 5th Dynasty. Despite its size, this pyramid is very significant for having the first example of funerary texts known as Pyramid Texts. These texts were inscribed on the walls of the burial chamber and assisted the deceased pharaoh in his journey to the afterlife through instructive spells.
As with most pyramids, two temples linked by a long causeway compose part of the pyramid complex. The remains of the valley temple can be seen at the modern entrance to the site of Saqqara. Much of the causeway, which was elaborately decorated, has been removed and reused by later kings, but a part of it still remains offering visitors a glimpse of what it once looked like."
Santosh Pingalay
"Must visit! Much easier to enter this tomb, shorter passageway than the Great Pyramid of Giza and not humid at all, it is a way more comfortable experience - only caveat is that the passage is narrow so need to squat walk for a bit.
Reason its a must visit is because it has first ever hyroglyphic inscriptions in a tomb ever made and the inscriptions are exquisite and perfectly made - 4300 years ago. Absolutely incredible. Dont miss this opportunity once you are in Saqqara, also you have to visit the Saqqara necropolis, not as immense as Giza but a lot more historical value here."
Abhilash Paul
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pyramid of Unas is located in Saqqara, south of Cairo. The most common way to get there is by hiring a taxi or arranging a private tour from Cairo. Many tours combine Saqqara with Dahshur and Giza. Expect a journey of about 45-60 minutes from central Cairo, depending on traffic. :car: :bus:
Public transport to Saqqara can be challenging and time-consuming. It's generally recommended to use a taxi, ride-sharing app, or join a guided tour for a more convenient experience. :taxi:
The Saqqara Necropolis is quite spread out. Hiring a local guide at the site or having a pre-arranged tour can enhance your understanding and navigation. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking. :athletic_shoe:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry into the Pyramid of Unas is typically included with your general admission ticket to the Saqqara Necropolis site. There is no additional fee for entering this pyramid. :ticket:
The Pyramid of Unas, like other sites within Saqqara, is generally open from morning until around 12:00 PM (midday) for interior access. It's always best to check the latest official hours upon arrival. :clock:
While online ticket purchasing options for Egyptian sites are becoming more common, it's advisable to check the official Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities website or reliable tour operators for the most up-to-date information on purchasing tickets in advance. :computer:
The interior passageway is narrow and requires squatting or crawling. While it's less claustrophobic than some other pyramids, it may not be suitable for individuals with severe mobility issues or extreme claustrophobia. :warning:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Pyramid of Unas is most famous for its 'Pyramid Texts,' the earliest known hieroglyphic inscriptions found in any Egyptian tomb. These texts are inscribed on the walls and ceiling of the burial chamber and are believed to be spells to aid the pharaoh's journey to the afterlife. :scroll:
Compared to the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Pyramid of Unas is generally much less crowded. This makes for a more comfortable and less overwhelming experience, allowing you to better appreciate the inscriptions. :peopleholdinghands:
Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be exploring the Saqqara site. Inside the pyramid, the passageway is narrow, so clothing that allows for easy movement is recommended. Light, breathable fabrics are best for the Egyptian climate. :athletic_shoe: :tshirt:
Official guides can be hired at the Saqqara site. There may also be individuals inside the pyramid who offer explanations of the inscriptions for a small tip. :man_detective:
The Pyramid of Unas is part of the Saqqara Necropolis, which includes the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the Tomb of Ty, and various other mastabas and structures. Nearby Dahshur is home to the Bent and Red Pyramids. :compass:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary, but generally, taking photos inside ancient Egyptian tombs and pyramids is often restricted or requires a separate photography permit. It's best to check on-site regulations or ask your guide. :camerawithflash:
The exterior of the Step Pyramid of Djoser offers iconic shots. The vastness of the necropolis itself provides many opportunities for landscape photography. Inside the Pyramid of Unas, focus on capturing the intricate details of the hieroglyphs if photography is permitted. :camera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1To make the visit more enjoyable, ensure children are well-rested and hydrated. Explain the concept of the Pyramid Texts in simple terms beforehand to spark their interest. If the interior of Unas seems too daunting, the exterior of the structures and the vastness of the necropolis can still offer a memorable experience.
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
Beyond the Pyramid Texts, exploring the surrounding Saqqara Necropolis is essential. This area is a treasure trove of archaeological discoveries, including the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone structure in Egypt.
+4 Engaging with local guides or doing thorough research beforehand will greatly enhance your appreciation of the historical context and the ongoing discoveries at this vital site. 🚶 Solo Travelers
Be prepared for the physical aspect of entering the pyramid – the narrow passages are a unique challenge. However, the sense of discovery and the ability to connect with ancient history on your own terms can be incredibly fulfilling.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Pyramid Texts
These texts are inscribed on the walls and ceilings of the burial chamber, often in intricate hieroglyphs. Visiting the Pyramid of Unas offers a unique opportunity to witness these ancient religious spells firsthand, providing a profound connection to the beliefs and rituals of the Old Kingdom. The sheer effort involved in carving these texts within the confined spaces highlights the dedication to the pharaoh's eternal journey.
While the pyramid itself might not be as grand in scale as some of the Giza pyramids, its historical and religious significance is unparalleled. It's a testament to the evolving understanding of death and the afterlife in ancient Egypt, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Egyptology.
Navigating the Interior: A Traveler's Perspective
However, many visitors find the experience inside Unas to be more comfortable than other pyramids. It's generally less humid and less crowded, allowing for a more personal encounter with the ancient architecture. The passageway is also relatively short, meaning the more challenging parts are not excessively long.
Despite the physical demands, the reward is immense. The walls are covered in beautifully preserved hieroglyphs, a sight that many travelers find awe-inspiring. The experience offers a tangible connection to the past, allowing you to walk (or crawl!) through history.
Saqqara: A Necropolis of Firsts
+4Beyond Djoser's groundbreaking structure, Saqqara boasts a rich collection of tombs and smaller pyramids, each offering unique insights into Egyptian history and funerary practices. The Pyramid of Unas, with its pioneering Pyramid Texts, stands as a significant example of the evolution of these practices.
Visiting Saqqara provides a more intimate and historically dense experience compared to the more famous Giza plateau. It's a place where you can often find yourself with fewer crowds, allowing for a deeper appreciation of the ancient wonders.
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