The only one of the 7 wonders of the world that has survived to this day is the Pyramid of Cheops, or the Pyramid of Khufu, as the Egyptians themselves call it, unlike the rest of the world, which uses the Greek pronunciation of the name of the pharaoh.
History and construction of the Great Pyramid of Cheops
It is believed that a certain Hemion, the pharaoh’s nephew and vizier, and, by extension, also a court architect, was involved in bringing the royal ambitions to life. The Pyramid of Cheops was built around 2540 BC, and its construction began twenty years earlier — somewhere in 2560 BC.
More than two million huge stones were needed to build the Great Pyramid of Giza. The largest blocks weighed several tens of tons. For the structure weighing 6.4 million tons, so that it does not sink underground under its own weight, strong rocky soil was chosen. Granite blocks were delivered from a quarry that was located 1000 km away. Scientists still cannot find the answer to the question of how these stones were transported and how the Cheops pyramid was built
The purpose of the tallest pyramid in Ancient Egypt also causes a lot of controversy. According to the most common opinion, this is really the tomb of Cheops (the second pharaoh of the IV dynasty of rulers) and members of his family. But nevertheless, discussions around the mystery of the pyramid do not subside. For example, from the point of view of some astronomers, some kind of observatory was equipped here, since the ventilation ducts and corridors point with amazing accuracy to the stars Sirius, Thuban, and Alnitak. It is also interesting that during the construction of the Cheops pyramid, the coordinates of the Earth’s magnetic poles were also taken into account.
Geometry of Khufu’s pyramid
The geometry of Khufu’s pyramid, also known as the Great Pyramid of Giza, is a remarkable example of ancient Egyptian architectural precision. Here are the key geometric aspects:
- Square base. The pyramid has a square base with each side measuring approximately 230.4 meters (756 feet). This square base is one of the defining characteristics of Egyptian pyramids.
- Height. Originally, the Great Pyramid stood at an impressive height of around 146.6 meters (481 feet). However, due to the loss of its outer casing stones over time, its current height is slightly reduced.
- Slope angle. The sides of the pyramid slope upwards at an angle of approximately 51.8 degrees. This angle, known as the pyramid’s «slope angle» or «pyramid angle,» was carefully calculated to achieve the desired shape and proportions.
- Symmetry. The Great Pyramid is known for its remarkable symmetry. Each side of the square base is identical in length, and the four triangular faces meet at a single point, forming a perfect apex.
- Alignment. The sides of the pyramid are precisely aligned with the cardinal points of the compass, facing true north, south, east, and west with exceptional accuracy. This alignment reflects the ancient Egyptians’ astronomical knowledge and their reverence for celestial phenomena.
- Interior geometry. Inside the pyramid, there are various chambers, passageways, and galleries, arranged in a complex geometric configuration. The dimensions and alignments of these internal structures were also carefully planned and executed.
Overall, the geometry of Khufu’s pyramid is a testament to the ingenuity and mathematical prowess of ancient Egyptian architects and engineers. The precise measurements, angles, and alignments demonstrate their advanced understanding of geometry and their ability to translate that knowledge into monumental architectural achievements.
Description of the Pyramid of Khufu
The Pyramid of Khufu, also known as the Great Pyramid of Giza, is one of the most iconic and impressive monuments of ancient Egypt. Here’s a detailed description of this monumental structure:
- Location. The Great Pyramid is located on the Giza Plateau, near Cairo, Egypt. It is part of the larger Giza Necropolis, which also includes the Pyramid of Khafre, the Pyramid of Menkaure, and several smaller pyramids and structures.
- Construction. Built during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom of Egypt, around 2580–2560 BC, the pyramid was commissioned by Pharaoh Khufu (also known as Cheops). It is estimated to have required the labor of thousands of workers over a span of 20-30 years.
- Size. The Great Pyramid originally stood at a height of approximately 146.6 meters (481 feet), making it the tallest man-made structure in the world for over 3,800 years. It covers an area of about 53,000 square meters (approximately 13 acres).
- Materials. The pyramid was constructed using massive limestone blocks quarried locally. These blocks, some weighing several tons, were transported and assembled with remarkable precision. The outer casing stones, originally made of smooth Tura limestone, have largely been removed over time.
- Architecture. The Great Pyramid has a square base with four triangular faces that meet at a single apex. Each side of the square base measures approximately 230.4 meters (756 feet), and the sides slope upwards at an angle of approximately 51.8 degrees. The pyramid is known for its exceptional symmetry and precise alignment with the cardinal points of the compass.
- Interior. Inside the pyramid, there are several passageways, chambers, and galleries. The most significant chambers include the King’s Chamber and the Queen’s Chamber. The King’s Chamber contains a red granite sarcophagus believed to have been intended for the burial of Pharaoh Khufu.
- Purpose. The primary purpose of the Great Pyramid was to serve as a royal tomb for Pharaoh Khufu. It was intended to safeguard his body and possessions for eternity, ensuring his successful transition to the afterlife. The pyramid also had symbolic and religious significance, representing the pharaoh’s divine status and his association with the sun god Ra.
The Great Pyramid of Giza is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and remains one of the most enduring symbols of ancient Egyptian civilization. It continues to captivate historians, archaeologists, and tourists with its grandeur, mystery, and historical significance.
Interesting facts about the Cheops pyramid
- There are many opinions about when the Cheops pyramid was built and who did it. The most original assumptions are various versions of construction completed long before the Flood by civilizations that did not survive it, as well as hypotheses about alien creators.
- Despite the fact that no one knows the exact time when the Cheops Pyramid was built, in Egypt the date of the start of its construction is officially celebrated — August 23, 2560 BC.
- The latest excavations, carried out at the beginning of the 21st century, indicate that the work of the pyramid builders was hard, but at the same time they were well cared for. They had a high-calorie diet of meat and fish and comfortable sleeping places. Many Egyptologists are of the opinion that they were not even slaves.
- Studying the ideal proportions of the Great Pyramid of Giza, scientists came to the conclusion that already in those days the ancient Egyptians knew very well what the golden ratio was and actively used its principle when creating a drawing.
- There are no decorative paintings or historical inscriptions inside the Cheops pyramid, except for a small portrait in the passage to the queen’s chamber. There is not even any evidence that the pyramid even belonged to Pharaoh Khufu.
- Until 1300, for three millennia, the Great Pyramid was the tallest man-made structure on the planet, until Lincoln Cathedral was built to surpass it.
- The heaviest stone block used in the construction of the pyramid weighs 35 tons and is placed above the entrance to the pharaoh’s burial chamber.
- Before the Vandal Arab invasion of Egypt, the outer slabs of the Cairo pyramid were so carefully polished that in the light of the moon they emitted a mysterious shimmer, and in the rays of the sun their cladding shone with a soft peach light.
- To explore rooms that are difficult for humans to reach, scientists used a special robot.
- From 6 to 10 thousand tourists visit the pyramids every day, and about 3 million per year.
Useful information for tourists
Currently, in the museum on the south side of the pyramid you can get acquainted with exhibits that were found during excavations and in the pyramid itself. There is an opportunity to see a restored unique cedar boat (the Solar Boat), which was built by the ancient Egyptians. You can also buy souvenirs here. And the next vantage point on the territory will be the Great Sphinx.
Features of the visit and useful tips
- It is best to go to the pyramids in the morning to grab a ticket and protect yourself from the midday heat.
- The entrance to the pyramid is very low, you will have to walk 100 meters bent over, and it is also very dry, hot and slightly dusty inside. Water is not recommended for people suffering from claustrophobia, diseases of the respiratory tract and heart.
- Photo and video shooting is prohibited inside. As for photographs against the backdrop of the Great Pyramid, it is better not to give your camera into the wrong hands, as there are frequent cases of theft.
- It is better to take a photo of the Cheops pyramid (as well as other pyramids) in the morning or evening, when the sun is not shining too brightly, otherwise the image will turn out flat.
- Climbing the pyramid is strictly prohibited.
- For local residents, tourists are the main and often the only source of income, so you will constantly be offered to buy something. Therefore, think carefully about whether you need certain offers, and in any case, be sure to bargain. Give tips only to those who truly deserve them.
- Be careful: there are a lot of pickpockets around.
Visiting the Cheops Pyramid, also known as the Great Pyramid of Giza, is an awe-inspiring experience that never fails to surprise visitors with its sheer scale and ancient majesty. As you approach the pyramid, the enormity of its size becomes immediately apparent, towering over the surrounding landscape with an imposing presence that evokes a sense of wonder and admiration. Stepping inside, the intricate passageways, chambers, and galleries reveal the remarkable craftsmanship and engineering prowess of the ancient Egyptians, leaving visitors in awe of the precision with which this monumental structure was constructed over four millennia ago.
Furthermore, the pyramid’s alignment with the cardinal points of the compass and its enduring mystery, shrouded in legends and theories about its purpose and construction, add an extra layer of fascination to the experience, making a visit to the Cheops Pyramid an unforgettable journey through the wonders of ancient history.