10 Pyramids Found In The World Which Are Stunning
Pyramids are ancient, monumental structures with a polygonal base and triangular faces that converge at a point at the top. They are some of the most iconic and enduring architectural wonders in the world. Pyramids have been built by various civilizations across different continents throughout history, but the most famous and well-known pyramids are located in Egypt and Mesoamerica.
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10. The Great Pyramid Of Giza, Egypt
The Great Pyramid of Giza is one of the most iconic and impressive architectural marvels in the world. Situated on the Giza Plateau, just outside Cairo, Egypt, it is the largest and oldest of the three pyramids in the Giza pyramid complex. Built during the reign of Pharaoh Khufu, also known as Cheops, of the Fourth Dynasty in the Old Kingdom of Egypt, the pyramid was constructed around 2580-2560 BCE.
The pyramid's original height was approximately 146.6 meters (481 feet), and it covered an area of over 5.3 hectares (13 acres). The pyramid's base is nearly perfectly square, with each side measuring around 230.4 meters (756 feet). The structure was meticulously built using an estimated 2.3 million blocks of limestone and granite, some weighing as much as 80 tons.
Its purpose was to serve as a monumental tomb for Pharaoh Khufu, who ruled Egypt for around 23 years. Inside the pyramid, a complex network of passages and chambers leads to the King's Chamber and the Queen's Chamber. The King's Chamber houses a granite sarcophagus, although it was found empty when the pyramid was first explored by modern archaeologists.
The Great Pyramid's construction remains a subject of fascination and debate among historians, with various theories proposing different methods and tools used in its construction. It is a testament to the incredible engineering and architectural skills of the ancient Egyptians and continues to be a symbol of their civilization's grandeur and ingenuity. Today, the Great Pyramid of Giza stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of visitors from around the world who come to marvel at its enduring splendor and enigmatic history.
09. Pyramid Of Cholula, Mexico
The Pyramid of Cholula, also known as Tlachihualtepetl, is an ancient Mesoamerican pyramid located in present-day Cholula, Puebla, Mexico. It is considered one of the largest pyramids in the world by volume, although its appearance is quite different from the more well-known Egyptian pyramids.
The pyramid was constructed by the ancient Aztecs, but its history dates back even further to earlier civilizations, including the Olmecs and the Toltecs. It is believed to have been continuously built upon and expanded over several centuries.
One of the most distinctive features of the Pyramid of Cholula is that it is covered in vegetation, making it look more like a hill than a traditional pyramid. This is due to centuries of natural growth and erosion, which has created a lush, green landscape on its surface.
At its core, the pyramid has a series of stacked platforms, and on top of these platforms, various temples and structures were erected throughout different periods of its history. The most famous temple on top of the pyramid was dedicated to the Aztec god Quetzalcoatl, the Feathered Serpent deity.
When Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 16th century, they were awed by the size of the pyramid and the grandeur of the temples on top. However, they feared its religious significance, so they built a Christian church (Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios) atop the pyramid, blending indigenous and colonial architecture.
Today, the Pyramid of Cholula is a popular archaeological site and tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the layers of history and the remnants of ancient civilizations, while also appreciating the fascinating blend of pre-Columbian and Spanish colonial influences visible in the pyramid's architecture.
08. Pyramid Of The Sun, Mexico
The Pyramid of the Sun (Pirámide del Sol) is a massive ancient pyramid located in the archaeological site of Teotihuacan, Mexico. Teotihuacan was a significant pre-Columbian Mesoamerican city that flourished between the 1st and 7th centuries AD and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Pyramid of the Sun is the largest and most prominent structure in Teotihuacan, and it is one of the most impressive pyramids in the Americas. It is believed to have been constructed around 100 AD during the early phases of Teotihuacan's development.
The pyramid is a step pyramid, with a rectangular base and four sloping sides rising to a flat platform at the top. Its original height is estimated to have been around 65 meters (213 feet), and its base covers an area of approximately 225 meters by 225 meters (738 feet by 738 feet). This makes it one of the largest pyramids by volume in the world.
The name "Pyramid of the Sun" is thought to be a later Aztec designation, as the original name and purpose of the pyramid remain unknown. It is speculated that the pyramid held religious and ceremonial significance for the ancient Teotihuacanos, possibly serving as a focal point for rituals related to celestial events or deities.
Visitors can climb the Pyramid of the Sun to reach the platform at the top, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Teotihuacan site and the Avenue of the Dead, the city's main thoroughfare. The Pyramid of the Moon, another significant structure in Teotihuacan, is located along the Avenue of the Dead and forms a visually stunning alignment with the Pyramid of the Sun.
The Pyramid of the Sun continues to captivate modern-day travelers and researchers alike, drawing people from all over the world to marvel at the ancient engineering prowess and immerse themselves in the rich history and mystery of Teotihuacan.
07. Red Pyramid, Egypt
The Red Pyramid, also known as the North Pyramid, is an ancient Egyptian pyramid located at the Dahshur necropolis, approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers) south of Cairo, Egypt. It is one of the most well-preserved and significant pyramids from the Old Kingdom period.
The pyramid was built during the reign of Pharaoh Sneferu, the second pharaoh of the Fourth Dynasty, who was the father of Khufu, the pharaoh for whom the Great Pyramid of Giza was constructed. Sneferu ruled Egypt from around 2575 to 2551 BCE.
The Red Pyramid gets its name from the reddish hue of the limestone blocks used in its construction. It was one of the earliest attempts at building a "true" smooth-sided pyramid, as the earlier pyramids had more stepped or layered designs.
The pyramid has a square base with each side measuring approximately 220 meters (722 feet) in length. It originally stood at a height of around 105 meters (345 feet), although its current height is slightly lower due to erosion.
Inside the Red Pyramid, there are a series of corridors and chambers leading to the burial chamber, where Pharaoh Sneferu was interred. The burial chamber features an impressive corbelled ceiling, a construction technique in which successive layers of stone are slightly offset until they meet at the top, creating a pointed arch.
The Red Pyramid is significant not only for its architectural achievements but also for its historical importance. It is believed to have served as a precursor and experimental structure for the construction of the Great Pyramid of Giza, which followed shortly after.
Today, the Red Pyramid is open to visitors, allowing them to explore the interior and gain insights into the engineering and construction techniques used by the ancient Egyptians. It stands as a testament to the ingenuity and ambition of the pharaohs and remains a captivating archaeological site in Egypt's rich history.
06. Bent Pyramid, Egypt
The Bent Pyramid, located in the Dahshur necropolis, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) south of Cairo, Egypt, is an ancient Egyptian pyramid renowned for its unique and distinctive bent appearance. It is one of the earliest attempts at constructing a smooth-sided pyramid and holds historical significance in the evolution of pyramid architecture.
The pyramid was built during the reign of Pharaoh Sneferu, the second pharaoh of the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom. Sneferu was the father of Khufu, the pharaoh for whom the Great Pyramid of Giza was constructed. Sneferu ruled Egypt from around 2575 to 2551 BCE.
The Bent Pyramid gets its name from the sudden change in angle partway up the structure. Initially, the pyramid was constructed with a steep 54-degree angle, but due to stability concerns and potential construction errors, the builders adjusted the angle to a shallower 43 degrees. This change in angle created a visible "bend" in the pyramid's shape, giving it its unique appearance.
The Bent Pyramid has a square base with each side measuring approximately 188.6 meters (618 feet) in length. The original height was approximately 104.7 meters (343 feet), but it stands at a slightly shorter height today.
Inside the pyramid, there are a series of corridors and chambers leading to the burial chamber, where Pharaoh Sneferu was likely intended to be laid to rest. However, the burial chamber was found empty when the pyramid was explored by modern archaeologists.
The Bent Pyramid is considered an important step in the evolution of pyramid construction in ancient Egypt. It is believed that the design flaws and adjustments made during its construction helped the builders develop the engineering knowledge and techniques needed to build the successful smooth-sided pyramid of the nearby Red Pyramid, also attributed to Pharaoh Sneferu.
Today, the Bent Pyramid is open to visitors, allowing them to explore its interior and witness the architectural ingenuity of the ancient Egyptians. It stands as a fascinating historical site, offering a glimpse into the challenges and achievements of pyramid construction during the Old Kingdom period.
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05. Pyramid Of Djoser, Egypt
The Pyramid of Djoser, also known as the Step Pyramid, is an ancient Egyptian pyramid located in Saqqara, about 20 miles (30 kilometers) south of Cairo, Egypt. It is one of the most significant and well-preserved structures from the early period of pyramid construction in ancient Egypt.
The pyramid was built during the reign of Pharaoh Djoser, who was the second pharaoh of the Third Dynasty of the Old Kingdom. Djoser ruled Egypt from around 2670 to 2640 BCE.
The Pyramid of Djoser is a revolutionary architectural achievement as it marks the transition from earlier mastaba tombs (rectangular, flat-roofed structures) to the more elaborate pyramid design. It is credited to the renowned architect and vizier Imhotep, who is considered one of the most brilliant minds in ancient Egyptian history.
The pyramid consists of six distinct mastaba-like levels stacked on top of each other, creating a step-like appearance. Originally, it had a height of around 62.5 meters (205 feet), with a base measuring approximately 121 meters by 109 meters (397 feet by 358 feet).
The Step Pyramid complex also includes a mortuary temple, a causeway, and a serdab (a hidden chamber housing a statue of Pharaoh Djoser). The mortuary temple played a crucial role in the funerary rituals and was a place for offerings and ceremonies dedicated to the deceased pharaoh.
The Pyramid of Djoser was intended to serve as the final resting place for Pharaoh Djoser, ensuring his safe journey to the afterlife and subsequent divinity. The step pyramid design allowed for the pharaoh's tomb to be constructed on top of the structure while the underground chambers contained the burial chamber and funerary chambers.
Today, the Pyramid of Djoser is part of the Saqqara archaeological site and is open to visitors, allowing them to explore the fascinating history of the early pyramid construction and learn about the religious beliefs and architectural achievements of ancient Egypt. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Pharaoh Djoser and the brilliance of Imhotep's innovative architectural vision.
04. Pyramid Of Kafre, Egypt
The Pyramid of Khafre, also known as the Pyramid of Chephren, is an ancient Egyptian pyramid located at the Giza plateau, just outside Cairo, Egypt. It is the second-largest pyramid in the Giza pyramid complex and one of the most well-preserved pyramids in Egypt.
The pyramid was built for Pharaoh Khafre (also spelled Chephren), who was the fourth pharaoh of the Fourth Dynasty during the Old Kingdom of Egypt. Khafre ruled Egypt from around 2558 to 2532 BCE.
The Pyramid of Khafre has a square base with each side measuring approximately 215.5 meters (706 feet) in length. Originally, it stood at a height of approximately 143.5 meters (471 feet), although the current height is slightly lower due to the loss of the outer casing stones.
The pyramid's structure is made primarily of limestone blocks, with a higher-quality Tura limestone used for the smooth outer casing that once covered the entire pyramid, giving it a dazzling white appearance.
The pyramid complex includes several other important elements, such as a mortuary temple, a causeway, a valley temple, and the Great Sphinx located near the eastern side of the pyramid.
The Great Sphinx, a massive statue with the head of a human and the body of a lion, is believed to be associated with Pharaoh Khafre and likely served as a symbol of royal power and protection for the pyramid complex.
The burial chamber inside the Pyramid of Khafre holds a granite sarcophagus, but like other pyramids at Giza, it was found empty, suggesting that the pharaoh's remains were removed at some point in history.
The Pyramid of Khafre is a testament to the architectural and engineering prowess of ancient Egypt. Its near-perfect alignment and impressive scale continue to amaze visitors and researchers, offering valuable insights into the religious beliefs, burial practices, and monumental construction techniques of this ancient civilization.
Today, the Pyramid of Khafre is a popular tourist attraction and stands as a symbol of Egypt's ancient history and the grandeur of its pharaohs.
03. Pyramid Of The Moon, Mexico
The Pyramid of the Moon (Pirámide de la Luna) is an ancient Mesoamerican pyramid located in the archaeological site of Teotihuacan, Mexico. Teotihuacan was a significant pre-Columbian city that thrived between the 1st and 7th centuries AD and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Pyramid of the Moon is situated at the northern end of the Avenue of the Dead, the main thoroughfare of Teotihuacan. It is the second-largest pyramid in the complex, after the Pyramid of the Sun, and is an integral part of the city's impressive urban layout and ceremonial center.
The pyramid was constructed in several phases, with the earliest core dating back to around 200 AD. Over time, it underwent multiple renovations and expansions, leading to its final form, which stands as a majestic stepped pyramid with a rectangular base.
The Pyramid of the Moon is dedicated to the Mesoamerican deity associated with the moon, and its construction and positioning likely held significant religious and astronomical significance for the inhabitants of Teotihuacan.
The pyramid's height is approximately 43 meters (141 feet), and its base covers an area of approximately 130 meters by 150 meters (427 feet by 492 feet). From the top of the pyramid, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire Teotihuacan site, including the Avenue of the Dead and the Pyramid of the Sun.
The Pyramid of the Moon is adorned with intricate architectural details, including talud-tablero designs (a combination of sloping and vertical elements) and elaborate sculptures of the Moon goddess and other deities.
The pyramid's strategic location and connection to other major structures in Teotihuacan suggest that it played a crucial role in the city's religious and ceremonial life, possibly hosting rituals, offerings, and other important events.
Today, the Pyramid of the Moon is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world who come to explore the grandeur of Teotihuacan and learn about the fascinating history and culture of the ancient Mesoamerican civilizations. It remains a remarkable testament to the architectural and cultural achievements of the people who once thrived in this ancient city.
02. Pyramid Of Menkaure, Egypt
The Pyramid of Menkaure, also known as the Pyramid of Mykerinos, is an ancient Egyptian pyramid located on the Giza plateau, near Cairo, Egypt. It is one of the three main pyramids in the Giza pyramid complex, along with the Great Pyramid of Khufu and the Pyramid of Khafre.
The pyramid was built for Pharaoh Menkaure (also spelled Mykerinos), who was the fifth pharaoh of the Fourth Dynasty during the Old Kingdom of Egypt. Menkaure ruled Egypt from around 2532 to 2503 BCE.
The Pyramid of Menkaure has a square base with each side measuring approximately 108.5 meters (356 feet) in length. It is significantly smaller than the other two pyramids at Giza, standing at a height of approximately 65 meters (213 feet).
The outer casing of the pyramid, made of Tura limestone, was removed in ancient times, leaving the pyramid with its current appearance of rough, exposed limestone blocks.
The pyramid complex includes a mortuary temple, a valley temple, and a causeway connecting the two. The mortuary temple served as the center of funerary rituals and offerings for the deceased pharaoh, while the valley temple was likely used for the initial preparation of the pharaoh's body before the burial.
Inside the Pyramid of Menkaure, there are a series of corridors and chambers leading to the burial chamber, where the pharaoh's sarcophagus was once placed. Like the other pyramids at Giza, the burial chamber was found empty, suggesting that the pharaoh's remains were removed at some point in history.
The Pyramid of Menkaure is flanked by three smaller pyramids, believed to be the tombs of Menkaure's wives or other family members, further highlighting the significance of this pyramid complex.
Today, the Pyramid of Menkaure, along with the other pyramids at Giza, continues to captivate visitors and researchers alike, providing valuable insights into the religious beliefs, burial practices, and architectural achievements of ancient Egypt. It stands as a testament to the power and legacy of the pharaohs who ruled during the Old Kingdom period.
01. Pyramid Of The Feathered Serpent, Mexico
The Pyramid of the Feathered Serpent, also known as the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl, is an ancient Mesoamerican pyramid located in the Teotihuacan archaeological site, Mexico. Teotihuacan was a significant city in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica that thrived between the 1st and 7th centuries AD and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Pyramid of the Feathered Serpent is situated at the southern end of the Avenue of the Dead, the main thoroughfare of Teotihuacan. It is one of the most important and elaborately decorated structures in the complex, and it stands as a testament to the city's rich religious and cultural traditions.
The pyramid was constructed during the latter half of the 3rd century AD and is associated with the deity Quetzalcoatl, the Feathered Serpent, who held significant religious and cosmic importance in Mesoamerican belief systems.
The pyramid is unique in design, featuring four monumental serpent heads at the base of its staircase, with feathered serpent motifs extending upwards along the sides of the pyramid. These intricate carvings and sculptures depict Quetzalcoatl in various forms, symbolizing his role as a god of creation, fertility, and knowledge.
The pyramid's height is approximately 43 meters (141 feet), and its base covers an area of approximately 120 meters by 150 meters (394 feet by 492 feet). The entire structure consists of multiple layers, and the presence of earlier structures beneath the pyramid suggests that it was built upon existing foundations.
The Pyramid of the Feathered Serpent is part of a larger complex that includes a large plaza, temples, altars, and other structures. The plaza was likely used for religious ceremonies, public gatherings, and other significant events in Teotihuacan's communal life.
Today, the Pyramid of the Feathered Serpent is a prominent tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to explore the architectural brilliance and religious symbolism of the ancient Mesoamerican cultures. It remains a symbol of the city's cosmopolitan influence and its enduring legacy as a center of spiritual and artistic expression in pre-Columbian America.
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