The Pyramids of Giza

With the Pyramids of Giza, the ancient Egyptians created a place that continues to amaze us today. Here are a few reasons why you should definitely visit these monumental structures, which baffle architects and archaeologists to this day.

Many theories, legends, and documented evidence surround the Pyramids of Giza, just as hundreds of souvenir sellers swarm around tourists on site. You have to be prepared for this scenario - but also for a gigantic complex, a wonder of the ancient world, the Sphinx, and a magical place that you will never forget. If you're looking to be fascinated, you must come here. The Pyramids of Giza rightfully rank among the most beautiful sights in Egypt!

Today, we travel to ancient Egypt and discover the Pyramids of Giza, located just 15 kilometers from downtown Cairo, making them easily accessible. Located directly on Pyramid Road, they are hard to miss. If you are staying in a beach hotel during your Egypt vacation, you can inquire at your accommodation about possible day tours. For example, the drive from Hurghada to Giza takes about 4 hours, or you can fly in one hour. Depending on your travel plans.

The pyramids are among the oldest structures in the world, and - respect - you can hardly tell. They still shine in their full glory, despite being built during the 4th dynasty of ancient Egypt. If that doesn't mean much to you: 2620 to 2500 BC. If that also sounds unfamiliar: a long time ago. The Pyramids of Giza are also the only remaining wonder of the ancient world, which is reason enough to see them with your own eyes.

The limestone plateau where the pyramids were built was previously a significant cemetery for rulers and their families in ancient Egypt. During construction, various temple complexes, burial sites, and three individual pyramids were created.

Who exactly was involved in this construction, whether it was slaves or Egyptian workers, is still disputed today; however, the most common assumption is that there were about 10,000 workers - which were definitely needed considering the size of the stone blocks. This is still said to be the case, as no wheel was used for construction, leading scientists to develop various logistical theories as they have puzzled for centuries over how the Egyptians managed to transport such colossal amounts of stone. The ramp theory is considered the most logical: the blocks weighing up to 2.5 tons (for comparison: an elephant weighs about 2.8 tons) were pulled on wooden sleds. To counteract the friction of the sand, water was spread underneath. Since there are no records regarding the construction of the Pyramids of Giza, several theories exist. However, what is clear is that it required a tremendous amount of work and borders on a miracle that construction was completed by human hands in just 20 years.

Recently, fresh insights have emerged in research, as U.S. Egyptologist Mark Lehne discovered a document near the pyramids describing the transport of heavy blocks using ships. To move the blocks as close to the construction sites as possible, canals were dug from the Nile to the pyramids, allowing ships to travel smoothly. Traces of these canals and the ships have also been discovered, marking a real breakthrough. We can be curious about what new discoveries researchers will make from the Pyramids of Giza.

What still astonishes us the most and causes all archaeologists to be gray-haired is the fact that there are no plans for the construction, or it is unclear where they might have disappeared, if they existed. Because the Pyramids of Giza were built with such precision that, for instance, the corners were set at an exact 90-degree angle, a feat that today only the most modern measuring devices could achieve. Furthermore, the pyramids were precisely aligned to the four cardinal directions, and even today, it is unknown how this was possible without technical aids. Thus, many riddles, myths, and even alien rumors surround this ancient structure.

Additionally, it is very surprising that there are no mummies inside the Pyramids of Giza. Not even signs of them, because usually, such temple complexes contained inscriptions, offerings, or paintings. None of that can be found here. Only the Great Pyramid alludes to a few burial chambers and a sarcophagus, which is, however, empty - the whereabouts of the Pharaoh who was placed inside remains a mystery.

The largest and most important pyramid is also the tallest in the world, giving it a special significance. Although there is a sarcophagus (a stone coffin) inside, as mentioned, it might have been looted as early as the Middle Ages or even earlier. If you wish, you can also view the interior of the pyramid, but you will need an extra ticket (~$19), which is limited to a specific number per day, so it's advisable to arrive early in the morning. Inside, you will find dark corridors, stuffy air, and a somewhat uncomfortable feeling, as many of the events that took place here remain unexplained.

The Pyramid of Chephren appears slightly larger than the Pyramid of Khufu due to its steeper angle and an elevated plateau - but don't be deceived, it isn't. It resides in the middle of the complex and is named after Pharaoh Chephren, the son of Khufu. The Pyramid of Mykerinos, as expected, is named after the Pharaoh Mykerinos, the son of Chephren. Apparently, pyramid building was a true family hobby at that time.

The term Sphinx describes a figure with a lion's body and a human head, and not, as one might mistakenly think, only the Sphinx of Giza. For us, it's the true 20-meter-tall star of the entire complex. Since it was buried under sand for most of its existence, it has been so well-preserved to this day - only its nose and chin have unfortunately not survived, which makes this figure so characteristic today.

If you decide to explore the Pyramids of Giza, then you've already won. Anyone in Egypt should really add this architectural wonder to their list and not just lounge lazily in the sun. Be prepared for hot temperatures and many people trying to sell you every possible figure of the Sphinx, personally introducing you to every camel, and offering all sorts of other things for sale. But that's just how it is; politely decline and admire the wonder of the world!

Would you like to see the Pyramids of Giza with your own eyes? Then take a look at our current Egypt offers! A visit to the pyramids can be nicely combined with a relaxing all-inclusive vacation by the Red Sea. In our travel magazine, you will also find additional tips and information for your trip to the land of the pharaohs.