History

• Over 5,000 years ago, the people of Egyptian's fourth dynasty decided to honor their king (also known as the Pharaoh) by creating a massive tomb that would house him upon his death. The structure known as the Great Pyramid is located in Giza. Initially, the term "Pharaoh" referred to the pyramids or the "great house." The term gradually changed to mean the king. Many pyramids were constructed, but three main pyramids survive today and are visited by tourists. Smaller pyramids continued to be built for over 1,000 years. Archaeologists believe that more pyramids were constructed but have been buried deep in the sand. The first pyramid was built in about 2,780 B.C. King Djoser's architect was named Imhotep.
  
  

How Many People Built the Pyramids?

• Anthropologists have debated as to the number of laborers used but estimates suggest that as many as 100,000 men built the pyramids. According to records about Greek historian Heroditus, who lived during the fifth century, workers were employed full time for three months per year spanning about 20 years. Part-time workers were occasionally employed as well.
  
  

Why Were the Pyramids Built?

• The intent of construction of the pyramids was to preserve the Pharaoh's body in a mummified state for eternity. At that time, Pharaohs were considered gods, and Egyptians considered them sacred. Unfortunately, they were unsuccessful in achieving their goal.
  
  

Which Pyramids as the Most Popular?

• The three main pyramids are known as Menkaure, Khafu, and Khafre.The Menkaure pyramid was named to honor the king of the same name who was Egypt's king from 2490 to 2472 B.C. It was built using limestone, red granite, and sarcophagus. The Khafre pyramid was named after Khafu's son. Khafre served as king from the years 2520 to 2494 B.C. The pyramid has a 53 degree angle incline. The Khafu pyramid was named after Khafu, who was Egypt's king between the years 2589 and 2566 B.C. The pyramid is 449 feet high.
  
  

How Were the Pyramids Built?

• The Khufu pyramid required about 2.3 million blocks of stone, each of which weighed about nine tons. Workers used copper tools including chisels, drills, and saws. Granite was used to build the tomb walls. The Great Pyramid at Giza stands about 450 feet high.