The Lost Pyramid of Sekhemkhet at Saqqara, Cairo

The Buried Pyramid, sometimes referred to as the Lost Pyramid of Sekhemkhet, is an unfinished step pyramid that was built around 2645 BC for Sekhemkhet Djoserty. He served as the second pharaoh of the Third Dynasty in Ancient Egypt, reigning from about 2686 to 2613 BC, and marking the beginning of the Old Kingdom of Egypt. Many historians believe that the Third Dynasty played a crucial role in the transition from the Early Dynastic Period of Egypt to the Age of the Pyramids. While the pyramid is open for visits, the general public is not allowed access to its base and substructures.

Sekhemkhet Djoserty succeeded the more famous pharaoh Djoser, who is entombed in his renowned step pyramid at Saqqara. The Buried Pyramid was initially designed to emulate Djoser's step pyramid and is situated a few hundred meters to the southwest. Some argue that Sekhemkhet's pyramid was originally intended to surpass Djoser's step pyramid but only managed to rise slightly above ground level, earning it the name "the Buried Pyramid." Its incomplete state is attributed to Sekhemkhet's short reign as ruler, which lasted for approximately six years.