Abu Ghurab Sun Temple
Abu Ghurab sun temple Userkaf/Nyuserre
Old Kingdom·Egyptian·🇪🇬 Giza (Abusir north, Abu Ghurab), Egypt
About
About Abu Ghurab Sun Temple
Sun temple of Userkaf and Nyuserre at Abu Ghurab (5th Dynasty) open court with 20 m obelisk and alabaster altar, solar cult. Well-preserved example of pyramid architecture with stratified deposits and temple platforms. Excavated and mapped with radiocarbon chronology and measured plans, representing key horizon marker.
Why it mattersKey pyramid of region with regional type-site.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Chronology
Theories
- 01Ceremonial centre
Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.
History
How it came to be
- Built
- c.2400 BCE
- Period
- Old Kingdom
- Culture
- Egyptian
- Builders
- Local dynasty
- Purpose
- Ceremonial and settlement mound / pyramidal tomb and temple
- Excavation
- Partially excavated
c.2500 BCE
Initial construction / foundation
c.1500 BCE
Major refurbishment
1950
Modern survey
On the ground
Structures & features
29.9040° N · 31.1990° E · 62 m · 2 mapped features
Abu Ghurab Sun Temple — Main platform/pyramid
pyramidCentral pyramid mound and summit temple
29.9045° N · 31.1995° EAbu Ghurab Sun Temple — Secondary enclosure
enclosureAncillary wall and courtyard
29.9035° N · 31.1985° E