Egypt is undoubtedly one of the finest and most fascinating countries you will ever set foot in if you plan your next vacation there. You may take in their history, culture, and a plethora of breathtaking locations that will leave you speechless.
However, the Pyramids of Giza stand out among all these locations as a true wonder to behold. They’re also arguably one of the most spectacular and awe-inspiring structures ever created by man. And you must be living in a cave if you are unaware of this historical marvel.
The magnificent structures were built to last forever, and centuries later, we find them doing just that! Do you find the structure amazing only from postcard views? Then you will be even more amazed to learn the 10 interesting facts about the Pyramids of Giza we’re going to discuss today. Let’s get started!
Looting of the great pyramid of Giza has occurred frequently
We all know that the great pyramids of Giza have truly been a source of wonder worldwide. But unfortunately, it also comes as no surprise that the Giza Pyramids have been the target of widespread robbery throughout its history.
Tomb raiding was a common practice in ancient Egypt. Grave theft increased due to the notion that the pharaohs were buried with riches in ancient Egypt. It’s said that looting started immediately after the pyramids were closed.
They have become a UNESCO world heritage site
Egypt has long been recognized as a nation that values its culture and history. There are 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the nation alone.
The great pyramids of Giza have unquestionably made it to the list. These pyramids represent the pinnacle of ancient Egyptian civilization. They are arguably one of the most well-known and talked-about buildings in human history.
They are a historic engineering marvel
The great pyramids of Giza have occupied such a prominent place in history for a reason. Their construction continues to be a topic of great speculation among engineers and modern-day historians.
Wondering why? Well, one of the most interesting facts about the Pyramids of Giza is that none of its corner bases are taller or lower than the others by more than one-half inch. The pyramid’s surviving interior walls and exterior casing stones display finer joints than those of any other ancient structure.
You will be in awe when you discover the grandeur and perfection of the pyramids. The engineers did a wonderful job, especially keeping in mind the limited equipment they possessed at the time.
They are the only standing wonder of the ancient world
Did you know that the great pyramids are the only wonders of the ancient world that still stand today? For these ancient structures to stand proudly for this long, their construction must be extremely sturdy, wouldn’t it?
The construction of these pyramids began between 2550 and 2490 B.C. There is, therefore, little doubt that the building has withstood the test of time. It is another major reason you must travel to Egypt to witness this breathtaking sight.
It took around 20 years to complete the great pyramid of Giza
Many of us are still interested in learning more about how the great pyramids of Giza were built. Unfortunately, this is the case because there aren’t many written documents. Several websites and scholars claim that the pyramids were constructed between 2550 and 2490 B.C.
But please note that nobody actually knows with certainty when the construction was completed. However, it is thought that it took about 20 years for the pyramids to stand tall and proud.
They used 2.3 million stone blocks in the construction
The great pyramid is made up of more than 2.3 million stone pieces that are all set in one foundation. Isn’t this an engineering achievement in and of itself?
Another one of the interesting facts about the Pyramids of Giza is its foundation. Their construction has naturally-occurring layers of limestone and employs a variety of rocks. Many historians believe that the blocks used to construct the pyramids weighed between two and three tonnes.
It’s next to impossible to comprehend what the laborers of the time did to complete all the work so efficiently. It is funny, but people today do believe that ancient aliens helped them in the construction.
The pyramids were the tallest man-made structure
Forget Burj Khalifa; if you scan through history, you will know that the great Pyramid of Giza was the tallest man-made structure to have withstood the test of time. According to reports, the building weighs almost 6 million tonnes.
It also rises up to a height of approximately 481 feet. You should also know that the great pyramid ruled supreme as the highest man-made monument for approximately 4000 years.
They have three known chambers
The three known chambers or rooms inside the great pyramids of Giza are also the main ones. Their names are the King’s chamber, the Grand Gallery, and the Queen’s chamber, which is reportedly still incomplete. The final two pyramids, however, are located higher inside the pyramids.
The pyramids are aligned with the stars
Do you know exactly how the great pyramids of Giza align with the sun’s path? It is also positioned with respect to the stars.
The engineers of this great construction took into consideration Orion’s belt on the sands of Egypt. The great pyramids of Giza were also constructed, taking into account the height and positions of the stars in Orion’s belt.
The pyramids were once white in color!
Can you picture the Great Pyramid of Giza being white in hue, sparkling, and shining in its glory days? No, right? We are accustomed to picturing it as a sandy structure in the middle of an Egyptian desert.
However, it is thought that the pyramids were initially white since they were built from white limestone. So, they looked far different from what they look like today. Don’t you agree that it must have been an incredible sight to behold at the time?
In the end
The great pyramids of Giza are, without a doubt, an amazing architectural achievement and a visual pleasure. There is a reason why they continue to stand tall now and continue to draw in so many visitors each year. We have introduced you to the top 10 surprising facts about this grand structure.
So, we believe these insights will enable you to better understand this magnificent location. How many of these details actually caught you all off guard?
Since we’re already on the subject of architectural marvels, we assumed you might want to give our blog about the Colosseum a read as well. Check it out and tell us what you think!