Ready to experience the magic that has fascinated the world for thousands of years? Here’s the ultimate guide to visiting the Pyramids of Giza!
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Egypt’s iconic symbols, the Pyramids of Giza, have stood in the desert landscape for over 4,500 years, fascinating visitors with their monumental size and mysterious past. If you visit Egypt, exploring the pyramids is an unmissable experience!
A brief historical overview The pyramids on the Giza plateau were built by the Pharaohs of ancient Egypt to ensure their journey to eternity after death. The three main pyramids – Kheops, Khephren and Mycerinus – were built in the 26th century BC and have been considered a marvel of human engineering ever since. The Sphinx, a huge stone statue guarding the pyramids, adds further mystique to the area.
About the pyramids of Giza – All you need to know Nearly 5,000 years ago, Memphis was the capital of Egypt, while Giza was the resting place of royalty. The three pyramid complexes were built to honour their rulers. The oldest pyramids of Giza were built between 2613-2498 BC and are shrouded in mystery and symbolism. The pyramids are located on the west bank of the Nile, as the Egyptians believed that the realm of the living began with the rising of the sun, while the afterlife was linked to the setting of the sun. The dead were therefore laid to rest on the west side of the river.
Although the photographs may make them look like they are in the middle of the desert, they are actually only 15 miles from downtown Cairo. The complex has two main entrances: one at the Great Pyramid and the other near the Sphinx.
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There are three main pyramids in the complex:
The Great Pyramid (the pyramid of Cheops or Hufu): the largest and most famous of the three, built by the Pharaoh in 2580 BC. It was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world and the only one still standing today.
Pyramid of Khephren (Hafré): slightly smaller than the Great Pyramid. It was built by Kheops’ son. The remains of the enclosure can still be seen at the top of the pyramid.
The pyramid of Mycerinus (Menkaure): the smallest of the three, it was built by the grandson of Cheops.
Did you know? There are also other smaller pyramids, funerary temples and other tombs in the area. You can also enter the interior of some of the pyramids, where you can explore the inner workings of the pyramids through narrow corridors and chambers. The inside of the pyramids is cramped, with high humidity, little air and a hefty entrance fee.
Access to the Great Pyramid If you want to explore the inside of the pyramids, expect narrow passages and steep corridors. Claustrophobics may find it challenging, but the impressive architecture makes for an unforgettable visit. It’s important to know that you must leave your camera and phone at the entrance.
Top Things to See and Do
🏺 Explore the Great Pyramid – One of the most impressive wonders of the ancient world!
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📸 Take an iconic photo with the Sphinx – The most famous guardian of history.
Admire the panorama from the viewpoints – Breathtaking views of the pyramids and desert.
🐪 Befriend a camel – An authentic experience among the sand dunes.
🌅 Sunset camel ride – Enjoy the magic of the Giza plateau in the setting sun.
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Be part of the night light show – The fascinating story of the pyramids in spectacular light.
See the Khufu ship – The ancient Egyptian masterpiece that once transported you to the afterlife.
Sphinx – Next to the pyramids is the Sphinx, a huge, half-man, half-lion statue often associated with the Pharaoh Khafre (2500 BC), although its exact origin and meaning remains a mystery. Carved from limestone, the statue is 73 metres long and 20 metres high and is shrouded in mystery.
Legend has it that the Sphinx holds ancient secrets and its riddles can only be unravelled by the wisest of men. It has stood the test of time for thousands of years, though erosion and sandstorms have left their mark.
Many believe that the Sphinx may hide secret tunnels or hidden chambers. Some researchers believe that its face originally depicted a different ruler, but has been altered over time.
The mystique and monumentality of the Sphinx, a visit to the pyramids of Giza is a journey through time to one of the most mysterious civilisations of the ancient world. Whether you’re driven by historical curiosity or drawn by the beauty of the monumental structures, this place is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.