Pyramids of Giza

Cairo, Egypt

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What's There:

Activities:

Archaeology History Appreciation Walking / Strolling

Description:

Considered one of the oldest tourist attractions in the world, and the only remaining intact Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Pyramids, also known as the Giza Necropolis is situated in the outskirts of Cairo on the Giza plateau.

The complex comprises three main Pyramids, the Pyramid of Khufu (the Great Pyramid and the Pyramid of Cheops), the Pyramid of Menkaure, and the Pyramid of Khafre, as well as a number of smaller "queens" pyramids. This is also the location of the Great Sphinx.

Pyramid of Khufu (The Great Pyramid) this is the oldest and largest of the three pyramids, and was built as a tomb of the fourth dynasty for pharaoh Khufu. Until the 19th century, this pyramid was the tallest structure in the world. The sides of the pyramid are oriented within three degrees of true north, the is level to within 2.6 cm (1 inch), and the difference between the four sides is 5.2cm (2 inches).

Pyramid of Khafre the second largest of the trio, the pyramid appears to be larger from a distance than the Great Pyramid due to its slightly higher elevation. This pyramid also rises more steeply.

Pyramid of Menkaure is the smallest of the three, and had an original height of 65.5 metres. it now stands at 62 metres.

The Great Sphinx, a half human, half lion sculpture with a traditional headdress symbolizing power, is situated near the Great Pyramid. It is carved out of limestone bedrock, and is 57 metres long, 6 metres wide, and 20 metres high. It is the largest singe stone statue in the world. The nose of the Sphinx is missing from the statue, and multiple theories about its loss exist.

When visiting the pyramid, keep in mind that only a limited number of tickets are sold per day. Line up early. Usually, only two of the three pyramids are open at a time.

Getting there:

The Giza Necropolis is located about 5 miles from the old town of Giza.

Last edited on Monday, July 7, 2008 12:00 AM.
Contributors: Pokin Y. Show History

Reviews

Douglas B. says...

Added Oct 28, 2008

I began my visit to the Giza Plateau very early in the morning. Arriving at a recommended camel provider in the middle of the old town, following introductions and a short bargaining session, I had procured a camel for the morning. I sat down outside the shop with the friendly merchant while my camel was gotten ready. It was a unique experience seeing people getting their animals ready for the coming day's tourists and having a cup of tea as I waited patiently for the camel to be brought out. The conversation was friendly and I eagerly awaited setting off to the pyramids. I was assigned a young Egyptian boy to tend to the camel and provide assistance as necessary. I mounted my camel with ease as the boy positioned the camel for an easy mount. We then began a short walk through the old town to the open desert. I bounced along on the camel riding in silence and taking it all in. We entered Giza through a gate and we were out on the open desert. The sun was beginning to rise above the horizon and the view was spectacular. As we crested a dune, I saw the top of the Great Pyramid, and as I rode closer, I realized the immensity of the pyramid and saw for the first time five other pyramids. It was truly a breathtaking experience. My camel tender lead me right up to the pyramids. I left my camel and began a walk among the pyramids and decided to take the trip into one and I found that it was exhilarating and hot. If you are the least bit claustrophobic, I recommend another activity (I had failed to realize that I still had on my sunglasses and had I not discovered my error, I am sure it would have been a much worse experience for me). Upon exiting, I took a break in the sun for a few minutes and watched the tourists as the numbers began to increase dramatically. I then walked over to the Great Sphinx of Giza. It was a sight to see! Afterwards, I found my camel tender and we slowly headed back to town, stopping along the way for pictures and to purchase a soda from a friendly vendor. Payments and gratuities were tendered and goodbyes were said as I left Giza hoping to return again one day. It was a fantastic experience and I shall forever remember my first sighting of the pyramids from atop a camel. Good journeys!