Pyramids of Ancient Egypt

Types of Pyramids

• Step Pyramids: Earliest type of pyramid, characterized by a series of mastabas (flat-roofed tombs) stacked on top of each other.
• Smooth-Sided Pyramids: Most common type, featuring a smooth outer surface and a square base.
• Triangular Pyramids: Less common, with a triangular base and three sides that meet at the apex.

Famous Pyramids

• The Great Pyramid of Giza:
  • Built for Pharaoh Khufu around 2580 BC.
  • Tallest pyramid, standing at 146.5 meters (480.6 feet).
  • Original height estimated to be around 146.7 meters (482 feet).
• Pyramid of Khafre:
  • Built for Pharaoh Khafre around 2520 BC.
  • Slightly smaller than the Great Pyramid, standing at 136.4 meters (448 feet).
• Pyramid of Menkaure:
  • Built for Pharaoh Menkaure around 2490 BC.
  • Smallest of the three pyramids at Giza, standing at 65.5 meters (215 feet).

Pyramid Construction

• Core: Inner structure made of limestone and granite blocks.
• Casing: Smooth outer layer made of highly polished white limestone.
• Ramps: Inclined pathways used to move blocks into place during construction.
• Pulley system: Used to lift and place blocks into position.

Pyramid Purpose

• Tomb: Primary function was as a tomb for the pharaoh.
• Symbol of Power: Pyramids represented the pharaoh's power and wealth.
• Spiritual Significance: Believed to provide a means for the pharaoh's soul to ascend to the afterlife.

Interesting Facts

• The Great Pyramid is estimated to have taken around 20 years to build, with a workforce of around 100,000 laborers.
• The pyramids were originally covered in smooth limestone to create a shining, reflective surface.
• The Great Pyramid is aligned almost perfectly with the four cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west).