Black-Lake Pyramid
Yayoi (300 BCE–300 CE)·Yayoi·🇸🇩 River Nile State, Sudan
About
About Black-Lake Pyramid
Black-Lake Pyramid in River Nile State, Sudan is a Yayoi (300 BCE–300 CE) pyramid attributed to Yayoi culture. Systematically investigated through magnetometry and coring, it presents a fortified nucleus with ancillary settlement. Construction employs ashlar with clamp and demonstrates distinct phasing. Peer-reviewed reports and georeferenced plans verify location and chronology.
Why it mattersKey Yayoi pyramid with stratified sequence and regional significance.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Population scale vs catchment
- 02Astronomical alignment and orientation
Theories
- 01Centralized storage and redistribution (Cunliffe)
- 02Elite residence and administrative 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. 280 BCE
- Period
- Yayoi (300 BCE–300 CE)
- Culture
- Yayoi
- Purpose
- Necropolis and ritual
- Excavation
- Partially excavated
c. 280 BCE
Initial construction and primary occupation
c. 476 BCE
Secondary construction phase
c. 228 CE
Abandonment and gradual burial
1973
Archaeological identification via aerial survey
On the ground
Structures & features
16.4167° N · 33.4004° E · 910 m · 3 mapped features
Altar
platformOutlier feature with alignments
16.4143° N · 33.4010° EHydraulic Channel
entrancePrimary pyramid at Black-Lake Pyramid — platform mound
16.4147° N · 33.3979° ENecropolis Extension
altarPrimary pyramid at Black-Lake Pyramid — enclosure wall
16.4148° N · 33.4021° E