Great Pyramid of Giza

Overview

The Great Pyramid of Giza is the last surviving wonder of the ancient world and the largest of the three pyramids on the Giza Plateau. Built around 2560 BC for Pharaoh Khufu, it stood as the tallest man-made structure on Earth for over 3,800 years.

Highlights

• The King's Chamber: Ascend through the narrow Grand Gallery to reach the burial chamber deep inside the pyramid, containing the red granite sarcophagus.
• The Sheer Scale: Each side measures 230 metres at the base and the original height was 146.6 metres, constructed from an estimated 2.3 million limestone blocks.
• Sound and Light Show: Evening shows project images and narrate the history of the pyramids against the night sky.

History

Constructed during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom, the pyramid required an estimated workforce of tens of thousands over approximately 20 years. The precision of its alignment to true north, within 3/60th of a degree, remains one of the great engineering mysteries.

Visitor Tips

• Early Morning: Arrive at opening time (8 AM) to avoid the worst crowds and midday heat.
• Interior Access: A limited number of tickets are sold daily to enter the pyramid's interior; buy these at the ticket office first thing.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.