Top 20 Facts about the Pyramids of Giza

Top 20 Facts about the Pyramids of Giza

Originally published by Lilian in April 2020 and Updated by Ruth in July 2022 and Updated by Vanessa R in May 2023. Updated by Ruth in March 2024.

Egypt is known for its pyramids. The pyramids of Giza are the largest and most recognized artifacts in the world.

The pyramids were built to honor certain pharaohs of the fourth ruling dynasty of Egypt that was known as the old kingdom. It was the first era of Egyptian civilization that lasted from 2688 to 2181 BCE.

The Great Pyramid of Giza is the oldest and the greatest pyramid of the three pyramids that are found there. 

It is one of the seven wonders of the world and was built for Pharaoh Khufu of the eighth dynasty between 2580 and 2560 BC.

The pyramid contains chambers specifically made for the king and queen, the Robbers’ Tunnel, a modern opening gate, the Grand Gallery, and a huge vacuum deep inside the pyramid. 

It is estimated that 2.3 billion bricks were used to make the pyramid, the exact dimensions are not known as they were in Egyptian units. 

The pyramid of Giza is more fascinating compared to the other pyramids making it a favorite tourist destination. Most of Egypt’s’ revenue from tourism is gained from the numerous visitors to this pyramid.

Here are some top 20 facts about the Pyramids of Giza.

1. The pyramids of Giza were the first to be built

The pyramids of Giza were the first to be built. Pharaoh Djoser built a step pyramid in Saqqara south of Giza around 2630 BCE. Initially, tombs of kings and queens were underground.

Djoser’s tomb was constructed before that of Sneferu whose Red pyramid was the first true pyramid to be completed between 2613 and 2589 BCE.

2. The great pyramid was constructed after the red pyramid

Photo by Simon Matzinger on Unsplash

Pharaoh Sneferu’s Red Pyramid was 341 feet (ca. 104 meters) tall.

It was constructed at Dahshur, this was after the first pyramid in Maidum was left unfinished while his second was turned into the Bent pyramid.

It was after this that Khufu began working on the Great Pyramid at Giza. It was the largest of all the pyramids that were constructed in Ancient Egypt. 

The pyramid contains tombs for Khufu’s wives, a morgue, valley temple, boat pits and a raised road.

3. The pyramids of Giza have shrunk

Photo by Bilal Ayadi on Unsplash

The pyramids of Giza do not stand as tall as they did when they were first constructed.  They are about 455 feet (ca. 139 meters) tall today.

The pyramids have undergone erosion that has happened for at least four millennia. This has seen the stones on the structure reduce in size to 25 feet (7.62 meters). 

There is an iron triangle currently sitting on top of the pyramid. This represents the capstone that once marked the peak of the structure.

4. The interior of the pyramid has three chambers

By Olaf Tausch -Wikimedia

The pyramids were designed as tombs. The Great Pyramid, therefore, contains three burial chambers that were intended to house Khufu and a supplication of goods and treasures that he was to take with him in the afterlife. 

When entering the pyramid, there is a passage that descends about 354 feet (ca. 108 m) into the bedrock, then levels off. It continues another 29 feet (ca. 9 meters) to an unfinished, underground chamber. 

After which there is a hole in the roof that leads to the ascending passage, a 129-foot stretch rising to the Grand Gallery, this is the only known pyramid with a passage that slopes upward. 

At the entrance of the Gallery is a passage to the Queen’s Chamber.

There is a series of shafts, stretching from the north and south walls.

These have been studied multiple times but their purpose is yet to be known.

5. The  chambers of the pyramid are empty  

The tombs under the pyramids initially were full of human remains and gifts that they were to take with them to the afterlife. This was very common in the 9th century.

After the pyramids were open to the public, a lot of looting has left the tombs bare and empty apart from Khufu’s red-granite sarcophagus.

The white limestone casing that covered the exterior of the pyramids was also taken and used by various rulers and kings in other building projects.

Ancient Egyptian belief was that pharaohs were to be buried with their treasures and even sometimes with their slaves. 

The valuables drew rulers who destroyed the pyramids and took the gold, jewelry and clothes to their kingdoms.

When visiting the pyramids, one can see the evidence of failed break-ins the deep hole that was made in the pyramid’s structure is still visible today.

6. Skilled masons built the pyramid

Unlike popular belief that the pyramids of Giza were built by slaves, exerts believe that at least 20,000 to 30,000 skilled masons, engineers, architects, surveyors, and other craftsmen constructed the Khufu temple.

The experts further say that the workers at the site worked in shifts all year round and each shift was made up of a collection of workers. 

Many construction workers worked at the site during the summer when river Nile was flooded the valley close to the site, this led to the integration of permanent labor force.

Historians estimate that over 100,000 construction workers were involved in the construction of the Pyramids of Giza.

7. They are the oldest wonders of the world

These pyramids are among the oldest in the world and have remained in good condition making it to the list of the seven wonders of the world. 

Other pyramids can be found in Mexico,  an ancient city having up to 20 pyramids was constructed at Caral in the Supe Valley on the west coast of Peru between 2700-2600 BC.

8. Limestone was used to decorate the outside of the pyramid

Photo by Shotaro Hamasaki on Unsplash

When constructing the pyramids, attention to detail was essential as a sign of love and respect to the pharaohs and the dead too.

The pyramids were constructed using local limestone that was available in large quantities in Egypt, and the outsides were highly polished. 

The stones sparkled in the sunlight, making the pyramid shine like a huge gem. The shine made the pyramids visible from the mountains of Israel, other unconfirmed reports were that it could be seen from the moon.

The genius behind the use of the limestones was to also reflect the sun away from the pyramids.

This ensured that the temperature in the tomb remained at a constant of 20 degrees Celsius, protecting the mummies. 

9. The pyramid had an invisible door

It is believed that the pyramid once had a swivel door that weighed up to 20 tons. One could only push open the door from the inside and was not detectable from the outside.

The doors were so heavy that the opening mechanism was only discovered when the Great Pyramid was being studied by scientists.

They realized that they were two hue swivel doors. The Egyptian’s ability to balance the 20-tonne doors to order to create this effect has remained a mystery to date.

10. Heavy stones were used in the construction of the pyramid

By CaptMondo -Wikimedia

Historians believe that the Giza pyramids were constructed using more than two million stones ranging from 2 tons to 50 tons.

It is still unknown how they transported and lifted the stones during construction.

The pyramids stood at about 203 steps and each of the stones had been placed with impressive preciseness and still stands strong today.

11. The Pyramids of Giza has a Queen’s Chamber

The name of Queen’s Chamber is actually a placeholder. Archeologists at the time gave it that name since they assumed only the pharaoh’s queen could share his pyramid. However, Egyptologists admit there’s no evidence for such an assumption. Much like the King’s Chamber, the Queen’s Chamber is completely empty.

The Queen’s Chamber measures about 6 meters wide from north to south, and 5 meters from east to west. It also has a pointed roof, standing about 6 meters high at its highest point.

12. It took 20 years to finish the Pyramids of Giza, in 2560 BC

Pyramids of Giza, Egypt by V Manninen – Wikimedia Commons

Construction on the Pyramids of Giza started in 2580 BC. A lot of time and effort was required to build these pyramids, each one averaging about two centuries. 

About 138 pyramids were built in ancient Egypt and the amount spent on their construction is not only the phenomenal thing but also the amount of thought that went into their positioning in relation to the stars.

13. At its completion, the Pyramids of Giza was the tallest building in the world

According to records, the Pyramids of Giza originally rose to a height of 146.7 meters, which is almost 10 meters taller than it is today.

After its completion, it was the tallest building worldwide and would hold that title for 3,800 years. The pyramid lost its title as the tallest building in the world to England’s Lincoln Cathedral in 1311 AD.

14.  2.5 million blocks of stone make up the Pyramid of Giza 

Great Pyramid of Giza by Nina R – Wikimedia Commons

The Egyptian monument comprises up to 2.5 million blocks of stones, some of which are massive, especially the pink granite in the King’s Chamber, a room near the top of the pyramid that houses a red granite sarcophagus. 

The stones for this chamber weighed between 25 and 80 tonnes and were brought roughly 500 miles to the site of the pyramids. Estimates for the number of materials used are 5 million tonnes of limestone and 8,000 tonnes of granite.

15. The pyramid labourers also had their own tombs near the Pyramids of Giza 

While these tombs were not as elaborate as those of royalty, these workers resting places also had tombs in solid buildings made from brick. 

Scientists consider this as evidence that the workers who built the pyramids were, in fact, not slaves, but paid laborers respected for their skills and hard work.

16. Ancient Egyptians had a special way of breaking stones

The ancient Egyptians were forced to improvise a lot due to the lack of iron tools. The Egyptians would carve holes into the rocks, put wooden wedges into the indents, and then use them to break stones. They would then be immersed in water by the Egyptians. Stone was broken by the swelling of the wood as it soaked in water. When the stone had been fractured, the Ancient Egyptians finished it by shaping it into blocks that could be used for construction. 

17. Slaves didn’t actually build  the pyramids

Chloekwak, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Great Pyramid was not constructed by slaves, despite what Bible and Greek myths and legends claim. Since then, historians have come to the conclusion that Pharaohs forced peasants to labour on the pyramid to earn money during the dry season.

The peasants received compensation, food, and housing throughout the process. In addition, they considered the construction of the Pharaoh’s tomb to be a holy act that would secure their place in the afterlife.

18. The pyramid’s entrance faces north

Eslam maalky.22, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The entrance to the Pyramid of Giza is around 17 metres above the pyramid’s base. The Descending Tunnel, a tunnel that may be found within the entryway, falls directly into the pyramid. Another tunnel, the Ascending Passage, can be reached by continuing along this route.

It takes the Descending Passage 105 metres to go to the ground and under the pyramid. This route finishes in an unfinished underground room that is said to be Pharaoh Khufu’s original tomb. The Ancient Egyptians left the chamber incomplete, which explains why they believe the pharaoh may have changed his mind.

19. Breaking in wasn’t that hard for thieves

The outer entrance proved to be quite simple to break into despite the pyramid’s sophisticated structure. Thieves still managed to get around the seals despite how difficult they were to breach. Robber’s Tunnel is the name Egyptologists have given to the tunnel that tomb raiders just dug through the pyramid.

The Ascending Passage is accessible after passing the blocking stones in this man-made tunnel, which extends 27 metres through the pyramid. Unexpectedly, tourists started to access the pyramid via the Robber’s Tunnel as well.

20. The King’s chamber is completely empty

The pharaoh’s sarcophagus is the only item in the room. Without a doubt, according to Egyptologists, everything in the chamber was stolen by tomb raiders a long time ago. The pharaoh’s coffin and mummified body were among them, in addition to the treasure, armour, clothing, and religious objects that made up his burial gifts.

10 Myths and Folklore Surrounding Giza’s Pyramids

The Giza Pyramids, standing proudly on the outskirts of Cairo, Egypt, have captivated the human imagination for centuries. While these ancient wonders undoubtedly hold profound historical and architectural significance, their enigmatic nature has sparked a myriad of imaginative theories and speculations.  Read more as we examine the most persistent myths and folklore that have endured through time, influencing popular culture and fueling the imaginations of those intrigued by the ancient marvels of Egypt.

1. Giza Pyramids were built with extraterrestrial assistance

The enduring myth of extraterrestrial involvement in constructing the Giza Pyramids suggests that their complexity surpasses human capabilities, necessitating otherworldly assistance. Despite comprehensive evidence showcasing the ingenuity and labour of ancient Egyptians, this belief persists in popular culture and speculative theories.

Scientifically grounded research, including the discovery of workers’ settlements and tools, refutes the extraterrestrial narrative. Yet, the allure of cosmic intervention continues to captivate imaginations, highlighting the enduring mystery surrounding these ancient marvels.

2. Some myths claim that the pyramids are precisely aligned with specific constellations

Walkerssk, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Myths surrounding the Giza Pyramids’ alignment with specific constellations propose an intricate cosmic connection. While there is indeed a level of alignment with celestial bodies, attributing this to intentional design remains a topic of scholarly debate. The precision required for such alignment raises questions about the technological capabilities of ancient Egyptians.

Sceptics argue that the perceived alignments may result from observational bias or changing celestial configurations over time. Despite ongoing discussions, the myth underscores humanity’s fascination with linking monumental achievements to celestial realms, infusing the pyramids with an air of mystical significance.

3. Speculation about advanced technologies being used to build the pyramids persists

Speculation persists about lost or advanced technologies used in pyramid construction, with theories ranging from levitation to unidentified construction methods. This myth, often propagated by fringe theorists, stands in contrast to archaeological evidence demonstrating the practical use of simple tools and human labour.

The allure of mysterious technologies adds an air of intrigue to the pyramids’ construction, despite a lack of credible historical or scientific support for such claims. Theories of lost technologies reflect the human tendency to seek extraordinary explanations for extraordinary feats, even when conventional evidence points to ancient ingenuity.

4. The Curse of the Pharaohs is a persistent legend that claims disastrous events befall those who disturb the tombs

James Kemp, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Curse of the Pharaohs, a pervasive legend, posits that disturbing pharaonic tombs, notably Tutankhamun’s, result in calamities. While notable deaths did follow the tomb’s opening, they are generally attributed to natural causes rather than a supernatural curse. This myth, fueled by media sensationalism, contributes to the mystique surrounding Egyptian artefacts. Scientific scrutiny often debunks curses, emphasizing the historical and cultural contexts that shape these narratives.

5. Some propose a myth that the pyramids were built as water pumps 

The water pumping theory suggests the pyramids served as pumps or energy generators. Despite its lack of archaeological support and engineering feasibility, the notion captivates those drawn to unconventional explanations.

Critics argue that the Egyptian pyramid’s design and structure don’t align with functional water pumps. Nevertheless, the theory’s endurance underscores the imaginative allure of attributing multifaceted roles to the pyramids, revealing humanity’s inclination towards unconventional and speculative interpretations.

6. Rumours persist about undiscovered chambers and secret passages within the pyramids

Shihab E., CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Persistent rumours circulate about undiscovered chambers and secret passages concealed within the Giza Pyramids. Despite employing modern technologies like ground-penetrating radar, which have identified some anomalies, concrete evidence supporting the existence of hidden chambers remains elusive. The allure of undiscovered secrets continues to captivate imaginations, prompting ongoing exploration and speculation about concealed spaces within these ancient structures in North Africa.

7. Numerological interpretations, associating mystical significance with the pyramids’ measurements, contribute to myths surrounding their construction

Numerological interpretations infuse myths surrounding the Giza Pyramids with mystical significance, suggesting that their measurements and proportions carry esoteric meanings. While ancient Egyptians did value symbolism and sacred geometry, attributing supernatural powers to specific numerical values lacks scholarly support. The enduring fascination with numerology highlights humanity’s inclination to seek deeper meanings and patterns within ancient constructions, even when grounded in practical architectural principles.

8. Myths often credit the ancient Egyptians with possessing advanced mathematical knowledge that went into pyramid construction

Ricardo Liberato, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Myths often credit ancient Egyptians with possessing advanced mathematical knowledge, enabling the incorporation of complex mathematical principles into pyramid construction. While Egyptians were undoubtedly skilled mathematicians, evidence indicates that pyramid dimensions were likely based on practical considerations, engineering prowess, and standardized measurements rather than esoteric mathematical concepts. Separating the practical from the mystical provides a nuanced understanding of the ancient Egyptians’ architectural achievements.

9. Speculation occasionally links the construction of the pyramids to the mythical lost city of Atlantis

Speculation occasionally links the construction of the Giza Pyramids to the mythical lost city of Atlantis. Despite lacking substantive evidence, this theory persists in certain circles. Mainstream archaeologists and historians generally dismiss the Atlantis connection, emphasizing the need for evidence-based inquiry rather than relying on speculative narratives to understand the pyramids’ origins.

10. Some myths propose that the pyramids served as conduits for harnessing and transmitting energy

Ricardo Liberato, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Some myths propose that the Giza Pyramids served as conduits for harnessing and transmitting energy, citing unproven scientific concepts. This notion fuels an ongoing debate between conventional archaeological explanations and fringe theories about the pyramids’ purpose.

While mainstream scholars emphasize the structures’ terrestrial origins and utilitarian functions, proponents of the alien energy source theory contribute to the enduring mystique surrounding the Giza Pyramids. The clash between scientific rigour and speculative imagination continues to shape discussions about these ancient wonders.