Great pyramid giza closeup

The Great Pyramid of Giza, the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, still holds mysteries about its construction and purpose.

About this subject

The Great Pyramid of Giza, also known as the Pyramid of Khufu, is the largest and oldest of the three pyramids in the Giza necropolis, Egypt. Built around 2560 BCE, it served as the tomb of Pharaoh Khufu of the Fourth Dynasty. Originally standing 146.6 meters tall, it now measures 138.8 meters due to the loss of its white limestone casing. It is estimated to comprise about 2.3 million stone blocks, each weighing between 2.5 and 15 tonnes.

The construction techniques remain debated. The most accepted theory involves earth ramps, but French architect Jean-Pierre Houdin proposed an internal spiral ramp system. Recent studies indicate the workers were not slaves but paid laborers, housed in a nearby village during the Nile flood. The pyramid's sides are precisely aligned to the cardinal points, with an average error of only 3 arc minutes.

Inside, the pyramid contains the King's Chamber, the Queen's Chamber, and the Grand Gallery. The King's Chamber houses an empty granite sarcophagus. The so-called 'air shafts' from the Queen's Chamber may have had religious or astronomical significance. A 2017 discovery detected a large hidden void above the Grand Gallery, yet unexplored.

The Great Pyramid was the tallest human-made structure in the world for over 3,800 years. Its base covers 5.3 hectares. The polished limestone casing reflected sunlight, making it visible for miles. Although looted in antiquity, the pyramid remains an enduring symbol of human ingenuity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the original height of the Great Pyramid?

The original height was 146.6 meters, but it is now 138.8 meters due to the loss of the outer casing stones.

How many stone blocks make up the pyramid?

It is estimated to have about 2.3 million blocks, each weighing between 2.5 and 15 tonnes.

Does the Great Pyramid still contain treasures?

No. The burial chamber was looted in antiquity. Some artifacts have been found in other tombs in the necropolis.