Imagine a structure that has stood the test of time for over 4500 years. That’s the age of the pyramids, colossal monuments crafted with about 5.5 million tonnes of limestone, 8,000 tonnes of granite (transported from Aswan, 800km away), and 500,000 tonnes of mortar. These architectural marvels, at least 118 in number, continue to intrigue us with their grandeur and mystery.
But who were the masterminds behind these pyramids? They were the ancient Egyptians, a civilization that revered their pharaohs and built these monumental structures as tombs for them. Each pyramid was a testament to their advanced engineering skills and their deep-rooted religious beliefs.
Delve into the mysteries of the pyramids with these ten surprising facts. Each fact is a window into the enigmatic world of ancient Egypt, leaving you with more questions than answers:
- The Red Pyramid was Egypt’s first true (smooth-sided) pyramid.
- The three Giza pyramids are aligned.
- The pyramids text is the oldest known religious text in the world.
- Climbing the Great Pyramid is forbidden.
- The pyramids were white.
- The step pyramids of Djoser are the oldest Egyptian pyramids.
- Pyramids have a secret chamber where the deceased soul rests.
- The last pyramid was made from mud bricks.
- The sultan attempted to destroy the Menkaure Pyramid.
- 2.3 million limestone blocks were used for the Great Pyramid of Khufu.
