Mystery of the Egyptian Pyramids

The Egyptian pyramids remain one of the most beautiful and complex mysteries of the modern world. Set against the exotic backdrop of the Egyptian desert, these stone temples hearken our memories back to the days of pharaohs and mummies. Throughout history there have been many theories regarding the exact manner in which the Egyptian pyramids were built.

It appears to modern man the ancient Egyptian pyramids were no small feat to construct. Some theories have surfaced indicating that at least some scholars believe in aliens building pyramids. One of the most long held beliefs relating to the built of the pyramids is that they were constructed through the use of slave labor.

Ancient documents have revealed that in most instances it took numerous years, usually decades, for even one of the ancient Egypt pyramids to be assembled. Records also indicate that it was traditional for a pharaoh to begin construction on a pyramid not long after he took the throne and that the building process might last almost the entire length of his reign. In the case of King Tut, evidence indicates that the tomb he was laid to rest in was originally prepared for someone of a lesser standing. Obviously, he was not expected to die at such a young age and therefore did not have sufficient time to prepare his own burial tomb.

Facts About Egyptian Pyramids

Besides the beauty and mystery regarding the construction of the Egyptian pyramids, there are also a number of interesting facts about Egyptian pyramids. King Khufu's great pyramid is the largest pyramid. It is well known as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, standing at an impressive 146 meters.

King Khufu's great pyramid, impressive as it is, was not the first pyramid to be built. His father, king Snefru, built a number of impressive pyramids himself. While none of the Egyptian pyramids constructed under the reign of Snefru are as tall or large as the Great Pyramid at Giza; they did contribute to the perfection of the Egyptian pyramids. Snefru is believed to have first begun his work in pyramid building with the step pyramids, progressing on to the Bent Pyramids and culminating his activities with the Red Pyramid, considered by many to the first pyramid constructed in a true pyramid shape.

The ancient Egyptian pyramids served a multitude of purposes. They were primarily used as the burial tomb of the royal family, consisting of the pharaoh, his queens and offspring. Modern excavations have uncovered that the inside of the Egyptian pyramids were almost always laid store with a variety of items the dead would need in the afterlife. Some of the most ornate and expensive items ever discovered on the inside of the Egyptian pyramids came from the tomb of King Tut. Carefully removing, cataloging and studying the items required a number of years. In the end there were several thousand items discovered to reside with King Tut's mummy.

One of the most profound mysteries relating to the ancient world of Egypt regards why was the sphinx made. No one seems to be quite sure why this great statue was constructed, however; theories abound. It is believed to have most likely been constructed during the Fourth Dynasty. Located in the same proximity as King Khufu's Great pyramid, many scholars have hypothesized that the Sphinx was constructed in order to guard the great pyramid. The real reason is not known and due to the Sphinx's rapid rate of deterioration; its secrets may never be uncovered.