Ancient Pyramids a journey through Time and Culture

Pyramids are one of the most iconic structures of ancient civilizations that continue to fascinate people around the world. Although the Egyptian pyramids at Giza are the most well-known, there are many other ancient pyramids around the world that are just as impressive and significant.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of these incredible structures. The step pyramid of Djoser in Egypt is one of the oldest pyramids in the world, built about 4,700 years ago. It was the first pyramid ever built by the ancient Egyptians, and its unique design sets it apart from other pyramids.

Originally a mastaba tomb, it was transformed into a 197-foot-high (60 meters) pyramid with six sections built on top of one another. The labyrinth of tunnels that run underneath the pyramid adds to its complexity and mystery.

Moving to Mexico, the Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacán is one of the largest pyramids in the Western Hemisphere. Completed around 100 CE, it stands at 216 feet (66 meters) tall and is roughly 720 by 760 feet (220 by 230 meters) at its base.

Although some of the original facing stones have been removed, the pyramid’s 248 crooked stairs leading up to the pinnacle still remain. In 2013, workers found a covered pit beneath the platform that makes up the pyramid’s peak, revealing two pillars and a figure of the god Huehueteotl.

The pyramids in the ancient Mayan city of Tikal in Guatemala offer another fascinating example of ancient pyramid construction. Rediscovered in the 1850’s after being lost in the jungle for 800 years, these pyramids were likely used as high-class temples and residences.

The tallest of the five pyramidal temples is Pyramid IV, which stands at 213 feet and is topped by the Temple of the Two-Headed Serpent. Elaborately decorated burial chambers have been discovered behind the main buildings on the site, adding to the mystery and intrigue of this ancient city.

One of the most unique pyramids in the world is the ziggurat at Ur in Mesopotamia, which dates back to the Sumerian monarch Ur-Nammu in the middle of the 21st century B.C.

Unlike Egyptian pyramids, ziggurats’ exteriors are tier-like to allow for the work and religious rites necessary to Ancient Near Eastern civilizations.

The ziggurat at Ur measures 210 by 150 feet and was originally built with three tiers of terraces. Although it has eroded over time, it was repaired and rebuilt by archaeologists in the twentieth century.

It would be remiss not to mention the most well-known pyramids in the world, the Egyptian pyramids at Giza. The largest of the three pyramids, Khufu, is particularly iconic, standing at around 482 feet (147 meters) tall and consisting of four equal sides, each measuring around 755 feet.

It was finished and dedicated to Khufu, the second ruler of Egypt’s 4th dynasty, in 2560 BCE. Inside the pyramid, the King’s Room housed a massive granite sarcophagus, while the smaller Queen’s Chamber had a sizable angular opening or niche.

Despite their age, these pyramids continue to attract tourists from all over the world due to their historical and cultural significance.

They offer a glimpse into the complex construction techniques and religious beliefs of ancient civilizations, and archaeologists and experts are still uncovering the many mysteries they contain.

From the oldest pyramids in Egypt to the unique ziggurat in Mesopotamia and the awe-inspiring pyramids of the Maya, these ancient structures are true marvels of engineering and architecture that continue to capture our imaginations.

Interesting Engineering / ABC Flash Point News 2023.