The Great Pyramids of Giza
Home to the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World
The Great Pyramid of Khufu
The largest and oldest of the Giza pyramid complex, the Great Pyramid of Khufu originally stood at 146.5 meters tall. Built around 2580-2560 BCE, it remained the tallest human-made structure in the world for over 3,800 years.
Constructed from over 2.3 million stone blocks, each weighing between 2.5 and 15 tons, the pyramid demonstrates the incredible engineering capabilities of ancient Egypt. The precision of its construction continues to amaze archaeologists and engineers today.
The Pyramid of Khafre
The second-largest pyramid at Giza, built for Pharaoh Khafre around 2570 BCE. It appears larger than the Great Pyramid due to its elevated position but is actually slightly smaller at 143.5 meters in its original height.
This pyramid retains some of its original polished limestone casing near the apex, giving visitors a glimpse of how all the pyramids would have appeared when first completed - as smooth, gleaming monuments reflecting the Egyptian sun.
The Pyramid of Menkaure
The smallest of the three main pyramids, built for Pharaoh Menkaure around 2510 BCE. Standing at 65 meters tall, it showcases different construction materials with granite blocks forming the lower portion and limestone completing the upper sections.
The Great Sphinx
Carved from a single piece of limestone, the Great Sphinx stands guard over the Giza complex. With a human head representing Pharaoh Khafre and a lion's body symbolizing royal power, this monument measures 73 meters long and 20 meters high.
The Sphinx has weathered thousands of years of desert storms and continues to be one of Egypt's most enigmatic monuments, inspiring countless legends and theories about its construction and purpose.
Visiting the Giza Complex
The Giza pyramid complex offers multiple areas to explore, including the three main pyramids, the Great Sphinx, the Solar Boat Museum, and several smaller pyramids and mastaba tombs. Allow a full day to properly explore this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Special tickets are available for entering the pyramid interiors, where you can experience the ancient burial chambers and marvel at the precision of the internal construction. Advanced booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.