The Great Pyramids of Giza: An Incredible History and Amazing Facts
The Great Pyramids of Giza are one of the most iconic and recognizable monuments in the world. Located in Egypt along the Nile River, they are the only surviving structures of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. For centuries, these massive structures have captivated the imaginations of people around the world. From their incredible history to their mysterious construction, the Great Pyramids of Giza are an incredible sight to behold.
History of the Great Pyramids of Giza
The Great Pyramids of Giza are estimated to have been built around 2560 BC. They were built as part of a complex of three pyramids, known as the Giza Necropolis. The Great Pyramid of Giza, also known as the Pyramid of Khufu, is the largest and oldest of the three. It is estimated to have taken around 20 years to construct and is believed to have been built as a tomb for the Pharaoh Khufu. The two smaller pyramids, known as the Pyramid of Khafre and the Pyramid of Menkaure, are believed to have been built as tombs for Khufu's successors.
The Great Pyramids of Giza were originally covered in a thick layer of polished limestone, which gave them a beautiful, smooth white appearance. Unfortunately, over the years, most of the limestone has been stripped away and used in other buildings. Today, the pyramids are mostly made of the underlying limestone blocks.
Amazing Facts About the Great Pyramids of Giza
The Great Pyramids of Giza are an incredible feat of engineering. Here are some amazing facts about these ancient structures:
• The Great Pyramid of Giza is the oldest and largest of the three pyramids. It is estimated to have been built over 4,500 years ago and stands at an impressive 146.5 meters (481 feet) tall.
• The Great Pyramid of Giza is made up of over 2.3 million limestone blocks, each weighing an average of 2.5 tons.
• The Great Pyramid of Giza is the only surviving structure of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
• The Great Pyramid of Giza is the only pyramid to have all of its original casing stones still intact.
• The Great Pyramid of Giza is aligned almost perfectly with the points of the compass.
• The Great Pyramid of Giza is estimated to have taken around 20 years to construct.
Things to Do at the Great Pyramids of Giza
The Great Pyramids of Giza are an incredible sight to behold. Here are some of the things you can do when visiting the pyramids:
• Take a guided tour of the Great Pyramids of Giza. There are a variety of tour companies that offer guided tours of the pyramids.
• Visit the Sphinx. The Great Sphinx is located close to the Great Pyramids of Giza and is an iconic symbol of ancient Egypt.
• Climb to the top of the Great Pyramid of Giza. It is possible to climb to the top of the Great Pyramid of Giza, although it is not recommended due to the dangers involved.
• Visit the Solar Boat Museum. Located in the shadow of the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Solar Boat Museum houses a reconstructed ancient Egyptian solar boat.
• Take a camel ride. A camel ride is a great way to explore the desert around the Great Pyramids of Giza.
• Visit the Valley Temple. Located close to the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Valley Temple is a fascinating ancient structure.
The Great Pyramids of Giza are an incredible sight to behold and a must-see for anyone visiting Egypt. From their incredible history to their amazing facts, the Great Pyramids of Giza are a testament to the ingenuity of the ancient Egyptians.