الجيزة (Giza)

Egypt

Pyramid.

In architecture a monumental structure constructed of stone or brick and having a rectangular base and four sloping triangular sides meeting at an apex.

So simple, but how the pyramids were built is one of Egypt’s biggest mysteries. The pyramids in Giza were built for pharaohs Khufu (tallest), Khafre and Menkaure. Whether they were built by workers, slaves or as some think aliens, have stood in this place for more than 4,500 years. Their massive scale reflects the unique role that the pharaoh played in ancient Egyptian society.

Egypt’s pharaohs expected to become gods in the afterlife. To prepare for the next world they erected massive pyramid tombs for themselves. Ancient Egyptians believed that when the pharaoh died, part of his spirit remained with his body. To properly care for his spirit, the corpse was mummified and everything the pharaoh would need in the afterlife was buried with him. The shape of a pyramid represents the descending rays of the sun and most pyramids were covered with highly reflective white limestone, in order to give them a brilliant appearance when viewed from a distance.

Fun facts about pyramids:

• While the three pyramids of the Giza are the most famous in Egypt, more than 130 other pyramids have been discovered
• The great pyramid is thought to be constructed of over two million stone blocks that range from two to over fifty tons
• The great pyramid stands at 147 metres tall and took over 20 years to build, this meant it was the tallest structure in the world for about 3,800 years.
• The pyramids are aligned to the stars
• All pyramids are situated on the west bank of the river Nile, where the sun sets every evening

Unta finally saw the pyramids. Egypt was a long-desired wish, which has finally come true. I can’t really describe my thrill, I’ve learned about the pyramids and ancient Egypt from elementary school to college, it’s a great feeling to finally experience it.

I hope you like this little photo diary I put together to share my time adventuring through Giza. Let me know if you have visited Egypt and how did you like it. If anyone has any feedback I’d be so appreciative to receive your comments and questions below. 

♥︎ Unta