Archaeologists Discover Ancient Pyramid In Kazakhstan OLDER Than Egyptian Structures
These are the incredible pictures of what is believed to be a 3,000-year-old pyramid in the steppes of Kazakhstan.
Local scientist Viktor Novozhenov says the structure, in the steppes of Sary-Arka near the city of Karaganda, is an ancient mausoleum which he says resembles those built in the area by the Begazy-Dandybai culture between the 12th and 8th centuries BC.
However, he dates this pyramid to long before that period.
Relics: The pyramid was discovered in the steppes of Kazakhstan (CEN)
He said: “This one is much more ancient. The mausoleum resembles the famous Egyptian pyramids.“
The newly-discovered pyramid particularly resembled the famous Pyramid of Djoser built during the 27th century BC in Egypt for the burial of Pharaoh Djoser, according to Mr Novozhenov.
Both pyramids have the same structure and are what is known as step pyramids which are the world’s oldest man-made cut stone structures.
Ancient: Scientists date the structure back 3,000 years (CEN)
Mr Novozhenov added: "Judging by the monumental construction, this mausoleum was built more than 3,000 years ago for a local king.
"We are going to look inside the mausoleum this week. Everything that we find inside will be sent to the Karaganda Archaeological Museum.”
The famous mausolea of the Begazy-Dandybai culture are located in the mountain valleys of central Kazakhstan.
Historic: The pyramid is older than those in Egypt (CEN)
There are 18 in total, all dating from the 12th to 8th centuries BC and incorporating a unique architectural style.
Each one features a large central room, housing stone tombs and altars, surrounded by two or three perimeter walls made of stacked stone or large vertical stone slabs.
Ordinary people in the region at that time were buried in the open leading archaeologists to believe that the mausolea were reserved for royalty, noblemen, or priests.
Top pic: CEN