Lost Africa: Ancient Nubia, Nubian Pyramids, Ancient Nubian Kingdoms

Ancient Nubia

Also known as Kush, ancient Nubia is one of the oldest civilizations in the world--spanning some 8,000 years. Nubia has long been overshadowed by Egypt and downright ignored by modern Western historians. Remnants of the ancient Nubian kingdoms can still be found scattered around the Upper (southern) Nile in present day Sudan and Southern Egypt. Although you won't find pyramids of the same size as those at Luxor, Nubia has more ancient pyramids here than anywhere else on Earth--over 100 in total.

Few Americans are aware of the vast ancient ruins of Nubia, but nearly everyone has seen the depiction of a Nubian pyramid on the U.S. $1 Federal Reserve Note. You'll notice that both have unfinished tops as well as the steep walls, unlike pyramids found anywhere else. If you're wondering where the eye on the dollar bill originates, then consider that Nubia also employed the Eye of Horus--not just Egypt.

Pictured above from the left: "The Great Seal on the dollar bill; a pyramid at Nuri, Sudan; and Faience wedjat eye, 700 BC, Fitzwilliam Museum of Cambridge.

Nubia shares customs, writing, and beliefs with the ancient Egyptians.

Read More:

1. Egypt's Nubian Ancestors

2. Nubia: The Golden Age