What Were the Pyramids of Giza Used for?

The pyramids of Giza are some of the most iconic structures in history. Located in the Necropolis of Giza, near Cairo in Egypt, the three main pyramids of Giza were built during a time when Pharaohs were ruling much of the known world. But what were they used for?

In ancient Egypt, Pharaohs were considered Gods. Most Pharaohs lived like kings during their reign, and their power and influence were undeniable. The Pyramids at Giza, while not strictly intended as tombs, were created to honor the Pharaohs and serve as a reminder of their power. It was believed that when a Pharaoh died, he needed a place to preserve his body for the afterlife. As a result, most of the pyramids were filled with rich objects in order to send the Pharaoh on his journey into the afterlife.

The oldest and largest of the three pyramids on the Giza plateau was the Great Pyramid of Khufu, also known as the Pyramid of Cheops. It was built around 2560 BC by Pharaoh Khufu and is considered one of the most amazing achievements in engineering and architecture of the ancient world. Standing at around 481 feet high, its estimated weight is 6.5 million tons, making it one of the largest structures ever created. It’s comprised of two and a half million limestone blocks that were cut precisely and placed with astonishing accuracy.

The Great Pyramid of Khufu is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World that still stands today, and it’s estimated that it would have taken over 20 years to build with up to 100,000 slave labourers from around Egypt. The views that it provides from its peak are breathtaking, especially looking back at Cairo and its surrounding desert landscape.

The second and third pyramids at Giza were built for Pharaohs Khafre and Menkaure and their families. Each pyramid was built slightly smaller than Khufu’s original design and held less treasure, although visitors exploring inside can still see some evidence of the priceless artefacts that once filled its chambers.

One of the most renowned aspects of the pyramids is their alignment with the stars. The ancient Egyptians believed that when Pharaohs died, they could be reborn in one of the stars in the constellation Orion. To help them reach their destination, astronomers would guide them using star alignments that mirrored those found on the ground. This fascinating detail can still be seen today with the three main pyramids aligned perfectly along a diagonal line from northeast to southwest.

In more modern times, the pyramids have become popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors from all across the globe to experience their sheer size and beauty for themselves. Although the exact purpose for which they were built remains a mystery today, it is clear that they are not just historically significant but also great sources of inspiration for all who observe them.

All in all the Pyramids at Giza were monuments built to immortalize Pharaohs and symbolize their power. They remain among some of the greatest architectural and engineering achievements in history.

An Insider’s Guide to Cairo, Egypt

Cairo is the capital city of Egypt and a bustling metropolis that boasts of rich history, ancient monuments, and a vibrant culture that is unparalleled. The city is located on the banks of the River Nile and is known for its towering pyramids, grand mosques, bustling bazaars, and exotic street food. This insider’s guide will help visitors explore the city’s top attractions, dine at some of the best spots, and get the most out of their trip to Cairo.

Top Attractions

Cairo is home to some of the world’s most recognizable historical monuments, and visitors to the city will not be disappointed. The top attractions in Cairo include:

1. The Pyramids of Giza – These ancient structures are one of the seven wonders of the world, and over two million tourists flock to the site every year. The pyramids were built over 4,500 years ago and were the tombs of the Pharaohs.

2. The Great Sphinx of Giza – This is a statue of a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human. It is located near the pyramids and is considered a companion monument.

3. The Egyptian Museum – The museum houses the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun.

4. The Citadel of Saladin – This is a medieval fortress that offers stunning views of the city and houses the 19th-century Muhammad Ali Mosque.

Dining Spots

Egyptian cuisine is a unique blend of Middle Eastern, African, and Mediterranean influences, and Cairo has plenty of dining options to offer local and international cuisine. Here are some of Cairo’s best food spots:

1. Abou El Sid – This is a traditional restaurant that serves delicious Egyptian cuisine, including grilled meats, stews, and vegetarian dishes.

2. Cairo Kitchen – The restaurant serves modern Egyptian street food and signature dishes, including koshari, a blend of rice, pasta, lentils, and fried onions.

3. Zooba – This is a trendy restaurant that offers a modern twist on traditional Egyptian street food, including falafel, ta’ameya, and shawarma.

Cultural Experiences

Cairo is a city steeped in culture, and visitors can experience it in various ways. Here are some of the top cultural experiences to try in Cairo:

1. A camel ride – Visitors can ride camels around the pyramids and the surrounding desert, giving them a unique vantage point to view these ancient structures.

2. A felucca ride – Visitors can take traditional wooden sailboats (feluccas) down the Nile and enjoy the city’s beautiful architecture and stunning sunsets.

3. A sound and light show – The Giza Pyramids have a sound and light show after dark. The show includes stories about the history of the pyramids and stunning visual effects.

Local History

Cairo is a city that is known for its rich history, and visitors can learn about it in its museums and historic sites. Here are some of Cairo’s most iconic sites to help visitors explore its history:

1. The Cairo Citadel – The citadel was built in the 12th century to protect Cairo from invaders. It houses several museums and is home to several mosques, including the impressive Muhammad Ali Mosque.

2. Khan el-Khalili – This is Cairo’s oldest market and a prime spot to take in the city’s culture. Visitors can purchase souvenirs, carpets, clothing, or sample local cuisine.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Cairo is a city that has so much to offer beyond its iconic attractions. Here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions to help visitors explore the city:

1. Al Azhar Park – This park is a green oasis in the middle of the city, offering stunning views of the Citadel and the Cairo skyline.

2. Manial Palace Museum – This former royal palace-turned-museum is full of art and architecture from the Ottoman and Mohamed Ali dynasty periods.

3. Zabbaleen Garbage Village – This may not be for everyone, but visitors interested in learning about Cairo’s waste management system can go to the Zabbaleen Garbage Village and see how the residents recycle trash into usable materials.

Final Thoughts

Cairo is a city that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Exploring the iconic pyramids, indulging in delicious local cuisine, and experiencing the city’s rich history and culture is an experience like no other. Whether traveling to Cairo for a short getaway or a long stay, the insider’s guide above will help visitors make the most of their trip.