When someone thinks of pyramids, Egypt springs to mind straight away. And that’s unsurprising considering how big of a tourist attraction it’s become.

       But few people know there is a country that is home to more pyramids than any other nation in the world, including Egypt.

       Sudan has around 255 pyramids - more than twice as many as its neighbour - built by the ancient Kingdom of Kush, which once ruled over parts of both Sudan and Egypt.

       The pyramids are mostly located in Mero？ and are much smaller than those in Egypt but are just as historically significant.

       They served as tombs for the rulers of Kush, known as the Black Pharaohs, who controlled vast parts of the Nile Valley from around 747 BC.

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       Unlike in Egypt, where pharaohs were buried inside pyramids, Kushite royalty were buried beneath them.

       The pyramids are scattered across several sites, including Nuri, El-Kurru, and Jebel Barkal.

       Some tombs, such as those of King Taharqa and King Nastasen, are now partially submerged due to rising groundwater, making them accessible only by diving.

       Unfortunately, Sudan’s history has been overshadowed by its recent political struggles.

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       The country has faced multiple conflicts, including two civil wars and ongoing instability.

       The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office still currently advises against travel to Sudan due to military conflict.

       Despite this, the pyramids have become a source of national pride. Archaeologist Mahmoud Suliman, who manages the Mero？ site, previously said they are central to Sudan’s cultural identity, featuring in advertisements and national symbols.

       Sudanese martial artist Aya Allam echoed this, saying: “They are a reminder that we were once a great nation and could become great once again.”