Ancient Egyptian Pyramids

When traveling to Africa, many people will most certainly be interested in visiting the ancient Egyptian pyramids. These architectural wonders have been studied for centuries, and have impressed visitors for an equal amount of time.

There are many, many pyramids available to visit and tour in Egypt. However, the most iconic ancient Egyptian pyramids can be found just outside the city of Cairo. The pyramids of Giza contain four of the most well known structures from ancient Egypt: the Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, the Pyramid of Menkaure, and the fabled Sphinx. The Pyramid of Khufu, more commonly known as the Great Pyramid of Giza, is most certainly the tallest of the pyramids, and is one of the tallest structures in the world. Consequently, it was dubbed one of the Seven Wonders of the World by Antipater, and is the only one that has survived the ages.

The Great Sphinx is one of the most mystery-shrouded structures in Egypt. Though not an ancient Egyptian pyramid, this scuplture, which most historians date back to at least 2500 BCE, was mostly buried under sand for hundreds of years. Several attempts were made to excavate the Sphinx, even as early as 1400 BCE, but modern excavations were not attempted until the early 19th century. The Sphinx was fully excavated by 1925, but was missing both its nose and beard. Theories regarding the cause of the missing features abound, with one more exotic claim asserting that the nose was hit by a canonball and destroyed by Napoleonic troops.

A great deal more of the history and culture of the ancient Egyptian pyramids in Giza and the landmarks that surround them can be learned by taking a tour of them. Arrangements can be made online or with an agency in Cairo for a guided tour.