The Great Pyramid of Giza—which is situated around five miles near the Nile River—is the largest of all the pyramids in Egypt.
It is one and the only surviving architecture of the famed Seven Ancient Wonders of the World.
Several historians believe that the monumental tombs are artifacts of Egypt’s Kingdom period and were built some 4,500 years ago.
Ancient Egyptians believe that their pharaohs will become Gods in the afterlife.
In order to prepare for the afterlife, Egyptians constructed temples to the Gods and large pyramid tombs for themselves that are comprised of things every ruler needs to guide him into the next world.
The initial Giza pyramid project was headed by Pharaoh Khufu during 2250 B.C.
His pyramid went on to become the largest in Giza with an estimated size of 147 meters above the plateau.
Estimates show that about 2.3 million stones were utilized in the project. The stones have an average weight of 2.5 to 15 tons.
The construction of the pyramid is still a mystery to everyone.
Scientific theories conclude that the Egyptians made use of ramps to transfer stones to the top of the pyramid.
Other theories believe that Egyptians may have utilized water or wooden sleds to minimize friction and assist the stones to move properly.
Facts about the Great Pyramid of Giza
- The Great Pyramid is composed of three primary rooms specifically the King’s and Queen’s Chambers and the Grand Gallery.
- There are small passageways and air shafts that can be found outside which leads to the said places.
- The King’s Chamber is situated in the paramount point of the pyramid. It is made up of a massive granite sarcophagus.
- Grand Gallery, meanwhile, is a sizable tunnel that is 153 feet in length, 29 feet in height, and seven feet wide.
- It was the highest man-made architecture in the world for nearly 4,000 years before a spire was constructed in the Lincoln Cathedral during 1300.
- Tombs in the Great Pyramid come in distinctive designs that include depictions of farmers working their fields and Ancient Egyptians practicing burial and religious rituals as well as carpentry and fishing.
- According to numerous findings, pyramids were built by talented workers who are on a wage, not slaves.
- Other than the Great Pyramid, the pyramids of Giza are also made up of the Khafre and Menkaure pyramids. The second pyramid was developed by Khufu’s son, Pharaoh Khafre. It was built during 2520 B.C. Unlike the first pyramid, the second pyramid was made of a Sphinx, which is a mysterious limestone statue with the body of a lion and head of a Pharaoh.
- Meanwhile, the third pyramid was significantly smaller compared to the first two. It was constructed by Pharaoh Menkaure during 2490 B.C. and showcases an intricate mortuary temple.
What did you learn?
Who were the pyramids of Giza built for?
The pyramids of Giza were built for Pharaoh Khufu, his son Pharaoh Khafre, and his great-grandson, Pharaoh Menkaure.
Can you go inside the Great Pyramid of Giza?
Yes. The pyramids of Giza are open to visitors but each one needs to purchase separate tickets to gain entry to the place.
How tall is the Great Pyramid of Giza?
The Great Pyramid of Giza was around 481 feet tall during its inception. Due to the removal of the top piece and constant erosion, the pyramid is now around 455 feet tall.
Each base side is approximately 755 feet long which is more than twice the measurement of a football field.
How long did it take to build the Great Pyramid of Giza?
Science professionals estimate that it took at least 20,000 workers to complete the pyramid.
Its construction started around 2580 B.C. and was completed at around 2560 B.C. shortly after Khufu became a pharaoh.
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