The pyramids of Ancient Egypt attract the attention of scientists, travelers and tourists from all over the world.
Let's look at some interesting facts about these grandiose structures.
The oldest and largest pyramid is the Great Pyramid of Giza. It was built around 2560–2540 BC by order of the Pharaoh Khufu. Its original height was 146.5 meters, and its volume was over 2.5 million cubic meters.
The construction of the Great Pyramid required approximately 20 years of continuous labor and the participation of over 100,000 people. Scholars still debate how the ancient Egyptians were able to construct such a grandiose structure without modern technology.
All Egyptian pyramids were clad externally with smooth, perfectly fitted limestone blocks. Unfortunately, much of this cladding has been lost over time. Today, only the core, roughly dressed limestone blocks remain visible.
The interiors of the pyramids, such as burial chambers and corridors, were lined with smooth, polished limestone. The walls were sometimes decorated with relief images and hieroglyphic inscriptions.
Scientists are still puzzled by how the ancient Egyptians quarried and transported enormous stone blocks weighing up to 15 tons. They likely used simple but effective tools and human and animal draft power.
Beyond the main burial chamber, the pyramids contain a complex labyrinth of corridors, auxiliary rooms, and shafts. Their exact purpose remains unclear.
The Great Pyramid of Giza is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World that has survived to this day virtually unchanged. Its faces are almost perfectly aligned with the cardinal directions.
No treasures or artifacts have been discovered inside the Egyptian pyramids. This disproves the widespread belief that the pyramids were gigantic tombs of pharaohs, filled with riches.
Modern scientists have discovered that the Egyptian pyramids possess the most unusual acoustic properties. Sounds within their interiors behave quite strangely, creating the effect of “mystical voices.”
Scientists have also determined that the pyramids can be viewed as enormous radio transmitting devices. They are capable of generating and emitting electromagnetic waves of specific frequencies.
These unique monuments of this ancient civilization still hold many mysteries and secrets. Uncovering their full history and purpose will undoubtedly provide a better understanding of the rise and fall of the great Egyptian culture.
Read also
- When to take down the Christmas tree and decorations: the best dates in January have been revealed
- Check the temperature in your home. It can make it harder for you to think and remember.