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Egypt Pyramids
In the desert west of Cairo, on the site of the ancient Egyptian capital of Memphis,
the Egypt pyramids still stand on the Giza plateau as perhaps the most elaborate
tombs ever built. Each Egyptian pyramid was carefully designed and constructed to
protect the bodies of deceased pharaohs as they transformed and ascended to their
place among the gods. Arguably Egypt's most renowned archeological site, the Egypt
pyramid complex at Giza has three pyramids that were all built toward the end of
ancient Egypt's fourth dynasty of rulers that reigned from 2589 to 2504 B.C.
The Great Pyramid of Khufu is the largest of the three Egyptian pyramids at Giza.
Originally about 480 feet tall, the Great Pyramid's base has sides that are longer
than 754 feet and are oriented in the direction of the four cardinal points of the
compass. People have both stood in awe of this largest of Egypt pyramids and also
disregarded its importance for centuries. Years ago, Khufu's pyramid was looted by
grave robbers and had its outer limestone casing scraped off and used for building
projects elsewhere. But now, this Egyptian pyramid is once again revered as a link
to Egypt's past and is protected so that visitors can experience its wonder for
years to come.
The ancient Egypt pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure stand beside the Great Pyramid and
add to the wonder and power of the Giza pyramid complex. Theses two Egypt pyramids,
though smaller than Khufu's Great Pyramid, have large and intricately designed temples.
The famous Sphinx statue of a lion's body with a man's head sits
on the east side of Khafre's pyramid, though its relation to the pharaoh is debated.
Menkaure's pyramid is the smallest and was the last of the ancient Egypt pyramids of
Giza to be built.
The Egyptian pyramids stand today, after nearly 4,500 years, as testaments to the
faith, dedication and technology of ancient Egyptians, and a trip to Egypt would not
be complete without a visit to the Egypt Pyramids.
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