subject: Visit The Oldest Of The Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World [print this page] The Pyramids of Giza are a remarkable display of great architectural skill. The entire Valley of Giza shows the superior architectural prowess of the ancient Egyptians. There are three great pyramids, each of which has its own special appeal. All pyramids were constructed during the third and fourth dynasties.
Pyramid of Cheops
This is the largest of the Pyramids of Giza and indeed all the pyramids found in the country. The Egyptians also call it the 'Ekhet Khufu', which means 'Horizon of Khufu', as it was constructed by Cheops or Khufu. Herodotus explains that 100,000 men constructed the great pyramid, working for three months each year. Its base covers some 227.5 meters and it rises to a height of more than 137 meters at an incline of 51 degrees. The total area of the base covers about 9 acres
Ascending the pyramid is a strenuous and risky undertaking, which is only done under exceptional circumstances with the help of a guide. The steps are more than 1 meter high. There is a platform at the top from where you can view the surroundings, stretching into the desert up to the citadel of Cairo.
If you cannot do the climb, you may still explore inside the pyramid. However, the lack of fresh air can make the process rather tiring. There is a passage that tomb robbers cut on its north side 15 meters below the original entrance. It is a narrow tunnel leading to the grand Gallery, which is 12.25 meters wide and 8.5 meters high. The tomb chamber is at the end of this long passage, which is 50 meters long, 5.25 meters wide and 5.75 meters high. The granite sarcophagus is empty and it is not clear where the mummy went.
Pyramid of Chephren
About 160 meters away towards the southwest of the Pyramid of Cheops is the Pyramid of Chephren, which the ancient Egyptians called 'Wer-Khefre', which means 'Great is Chephren'. The pyramid appears larger than Cheops because it is located higher. Its vertical height is 136.5 meters with a base measurement of 210.5 meters. A good part of the original casing is preserved on the apex. The mortuary temple was on the east side and you can clearly distinguish it from its layout.
The Royal Cemetery
On the west side of the Pyramid of Cheops is an expansive cemetery that was specifically meant for the royal family and other high ranking officials. The cemetery was established during the 4th dynasty and operated up to the 6th dynasty. The mastabas were arranged in a straight line.
Smaller Pyramids
There are relatively smaller pyramids on the east side of the Pyramid of Cheops that were meant for the queens and a pharaoh's daughter. There is also a large cemetery meant for other relatives. Towards the south are large mastabas for high-ranking officials.
The reigning pharaohs died before completing the respective pyramids. Indeed, many of the pyramids in Egypt were never completed because of the intensive labor and years they required.
