5 Fun Facts About The Pyramids

By Idy Perl

The Egyptian pyramids are one of the 7 wonders of the world, due to its massive size and the advanced engineering that would’ve been used to build them in ancient times. Here are some fun facts about the pyramids you may not know: 

No, We Didn’t Build Them

Unlike what some people might think, the Yidden actually did not build the pyramids that are in Egypt today while they were slaves there. The pyramids were built around 1,000 years before the Yidden arrived in Egypt, with the first one constructed between 2667 and 2648 BCE.  The pyramids are also made of cut limestone blocks, not the bricks that the Yidden were forced to make out of straw, clay and mud. 

How Many Pyramids Are There?

Although the most well-known pyramids are the three Pyramids of Giza, there are estimated to be around 118 pyramids around Egypt. Most of the pyramids were built as tombs for the pharaohs and their relatives. 

How Tall Are They?

The Great Pyramid of Giza is the largest of the pyramids and currently stands at an astonishing 454 feet! The pyramid was originally 481 feet tall but shrunk over the years. The Great Pyramid of Giza was the tallest structure in the world for over 3,800 years, until the Lincoln Cathedral in Lincoln, England, was completed in 1311 CE. 

So… How Did The Egyptians Build Them?

Until today we are still not sure exactly how the Egyptians managed to build something on such a large scale. Especially when considering that each of the limestone blocks that were used to build the pyramids weighed two TONS. Yep, that’s right, tons. Even today building with such heavy materials would require a lot of maneuvering and machinery. Historians have several theories as to how the ancient Egyptians managed it, and most think that they used systems of ramps, sledges, and pulleys.  

Going Into The Pyramids 

Visitors are able to go into many of the pyramids in Egypt to explore the long, narrow hallways and staircases which lead to chambers and the actual tombs. Do not try if you’re claustrophobic!