The Great Pyramid of Giza
The largest of the pyramids of Giza was designed for Pharaoh Khufu (Cheops in Greek). Its original height was 146–147 metres, the base sides were 230 metres long. Its base area was more
than 5 hectares. The monumental structure consisted of about
2.5 million pieces of stone blocks (each weighing several tons).
Constructing the pyramid required outstanding engineering design and labour. With primitive tools (but appropriate methods), wonderful buildings were created.
Complementary pyramid
Descending passage
Grand Gallery
King’s chamber
It is the only room in the pyramid tiled with granite. The Pharaoh’s red granite sarcophagus was placed in the centre of the chamber.
Relieving chambers
Queen’s chamber
According to the most widely accepted theory, the room is just an unfinished chamber misnamed by Arab travellers.
Entrance
It was placed 17 m above ground level, to protect the Pharaoh’s tomb against grave robbers.
Airing shaft
Eastern cemetery
Access ramp
The road that led from the valley temple to the pyramid was 18 m wide and approximately 800 m long. The causeway was raised up on an embankment,
its walls were nearly 40 m tall.
Building material and arrangement
The majority of the building material used for the pyramids was low quality local limestone. Granite blocks were only used in the substructures, the load-bearing structures
and for the sarcophagi. It was covered with shiny white granite on the outside.
Valley temple
Khufu’s mortuary temple
Complementary pyramids
The three largest ones were probably built for the pharaoh’s wives.
Information
Built: around 2580–2560 BC
Location: Giza Plateau, Egypt
Original dimensions: 230 × 230 × 147 m
World Heritage Cultural Site: 1979
Ancient Achievements
15
Ancient Achievements
14
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