What Are The Benefits of Visiting the Giza Pyramids?

The Giza Plateau, located in Egypt, is home to some of the most awe-inspiring and significant archaeological features in the entire world; the most famous of these being the three Pyramids of Giza, Khafre, and Menkaure. There are countless benefits associated with visiting the Pyramids of Giza, whether you’re there to learn about history, or simply to marvel over the magnitude of their design and engineering.

Hypnotic Beauty

For starters, the sheer size, beauty, and mystique of the three Pyramids of Giza is enough to leave most people speechless. With the Great Pyramid being the oldest surviving ancient structure in the world – as well as being taller than any building for another 3,800 years – it is truly a site to behold. These ancient structures lend themselves to a great opportunity for photographers, landscape artists, and tourists alike; with multiple angles from which to admire them from, you’ll be sure to find a unique perspective that captures your imagination.

Analyzing Ancient History

Many archaeologists and history enthusiasts visit Giza to immerse themselves in the endless array of facts and theories associated with the Pyramids. The Giza Plateau is brimming with interesting anecdotes, such as the tool marks left behind in the Great Pyramid’s granite and limestone blocks; which indicate that copper saws were used as opposed to stone cutting tools, or the intricate hieroglyphics found inside depicting stories of gods and Pharaohs. Historians can appreciate the voyage through time this experience offers, allowing them to contemplate how people a few thousand years ago were able to conceptualize, design, and construct these magnificent monuments on a scale that hasn’t yet been matched by modern architecture today.

Exploring The Surroundings

Additionally, there’s more to discover in Giza than just the Pyramids. The site is peppered with plentiful ancient tombs and temples, including a limited-access tomb known famously as “The Tomb of Osiris’. It has been known worldwide as one of the primary destinations for mummies and relic-hunters. The neighbouring location also houses a great Sphinx that millions flock from near and far to see each year.

Modern Tourist Attractions

The usually quiet city also offers many modern tourist attractions for those looking for a more contemporary experience amongst their historical trip. From markets selling souvenirs to kite-flying agencies providing an air view of the area for visitors to explore, there’s a wide range of service providers offering something for everyone.All in all, no matter what your reasons for visiting Giza may be, a sense of cultural appreciation and understanding of history is almost guaranteed. Even thousands of years on from construction, the Pyramids at Giza enrich individuals’ lives with their incredible presence and atmosphere. To learn more about this incredible site, you can visit the Ancient Origins website, where further details can be found on the Pyramids of Giza, along with a deep dive into all the facts and theories held in relation to them.

Insider’s Guide to Exploring Cairo and the Giza Pyramids

Cairo, the capital city of Egypt, is home to the magnificent Giza Pyramids – one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. These fascinating structures, built over 4,500 years ago, remain a top attraction for tourists from around the world. However, there’s more to Cairo than just the pyramids. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore the local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that you can enjoy during your visit.

Local Attractions to Visit in Cairo

Other than the Giza Pyramids, Cairo boasts an array of must-visit destinations such as the Egyptian Museum, home to the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts and antiquities in the world. The museum has over 120,000 items, including the gold mask of Pharaoh Tutankhamun, which is a sight to behold. Another fantastic cultural destination is the Cairo Citadel, a medieval Islamic fortress that sits on a hill overlooking the city. The citadel is home to multiple museums, beautiful mosques, and a stunning panoramic view of Cairo. Be sure to also visit the city’s medieval bazaar, Khan el-Khalili, to experience the sounds, sights, and smells of Egypt.

Dining Spots to Enjoy Local Cuisine

Egyptian cuisine is delicious, flavorful, and unique. Cairo is home to many local food spots, including the iconic Felfela restaurant, which serves traditional Egyptian food. The restaurant has fantastic decor that reflects the 1950s atmosphere and ambiance, and the food is prepared using only the freshest ingredients. Other must-try local food spots include Abou El Sid, which serves fantastic Egyptian cuisine in a classically elegant setting, and Koshary Abou Tarek, an Egyptian food chain famous for their famous Koshary topped with tomato sauce and crispy fried onions.

Cultural Experiences in Cairo

Cairo boasts a rich cultural scene that offers a wide variety of experiences. One such experience is catching a traditional Arabic music concert at the Cairo Opera House. The theater, built with the help of the French government in the 1860s, is a great spot to enjoy live performances by celebrated local performers. Another cultural experience is visiting Coptic Cairo, the old Christian sector of Cairo. Here, tourists can explore ancient churches, walk through the backstreets, and discover the life of Cairo’s Christian communities. Furthermore, taking part in a traditional Arabic cooking class is an excellent cultural experience for tourists, where they can learn how to prepare and cook a traditional Egyptian dish.

Local History of Cairo

Cairo is home to the Egyptian Museum, which boasts an extensive collection tracing the country’s history. To experience the city’s ancient history, tourists can visit the colossal statue of the Great Sphinx of Giza, which stands on the west bank of the Nile. The statue is over 73 meters long and hits as high as a 20-story building. Tourists can also visit the Al-Azhar Mosque, which dates back to the 10th century, to learn about the Islamic history of the city. Additionally, there is the ancient city of Memphis, which makes for an excellent day trip from Cairo. Memphis is the first capital of ancient Egypt and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Cairo is rich in history and cultural experiences. However, tourists looking for something a little different can find unique activities to engage in. One such activity is cruising down the Nile River on a traditional felucca boat. Felucca boats are essentially Egyptian sailboats that offer a cozy and authentic cruising experience. Additionally, exploring the city’s street art scene is also a unique and off-the-beaten-path suggestion. Street art has become increasingly prevalent in Egypt and can be found on walls, buildings, and various other public spaces. Finally, tourists can visit the Manial Palace Museum. Constructed in the early 20th century, the palace was the former residence of Khedive Ismail Pasha and is now a museum showcasing the life of Egypt’s last monarchy.

In conclusion, Cairo and the Giza Pyramids are must-visit destinations for any traveler who loves culture and history. With so much to offer, tourists are sure to leave Egypt with unforgettable experiences.