Africa

Africa

Sudan war puts ancient Meroe pyramids at risk

10 August 2026 06:28 (UTC +04:00)

Sudan's continuing conflict is threatening the preservation of the ancient pyramids of Meroe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Conservation work at the archaeological site, about 200km (124 miles) north of the capital, Khartoum, has come to a halt, Africanews reports.

Foreign archaeological missions have suspended their activities, while a number of archaeologists have left the country because of the conflict.

Archaeologist Mahmoud Suleiman said the accumulation of sand around the pyramids, growing vegetation and salt erosion were posing serious risks to the ancient structures, including their stonework and inscriptions.

The Meroe complex contains more than 200 pyramids built as tombs for rulers of the Kingdom of Kush, which flourished in the region from around the eighth century BC until the fourth century AD.

The site is considered one of Sudan's most important archaeological and cultural landmarks.