How The Great Pyramid of Giza Was Built | Mysteries Uncovered | The Dr. Binocs Show | Peekaboo Kidz

Recent questions

• What is the Great Pyramid of Giza?

  The Great Pyramid of Giza is one of the most iconic structures in the world, located on the Giza plateau near Cairo, Egypt. It was commissioned by Pharaoh Khufu around 2580–2560 BC and is the largest of the three pyramids in the Giza pyramid complex. Originally standing at 481 feet tall, it was the tallest man-made structure for over 3,800 years. The pyramid was built as a tomb for Khufu and is made up of approximately 2.3 million blocks of stone, each weighing around 2.5 tons. It is a remarkable feat of engineering and architecture, showcasing the advanced skills of ancient Egyptian builders.

• How was the Great Pyramid built?

  The construction of the Great Pyramid of Giza was a monumental task that involved a highly organized workforce of around 20,000 skilled laborers, rather than slaves as often believed. The project took about 23 years to complete, with Chief Architect Hemiunu overseeing the work. The builders utilized advanced techniques, including the use of ramps and possibly water to reduce friction when transporting the massive stone blocks. The precision in the alignment and placement of these blocks reflects the sophisticated understanding of engineering and mathematics possessed by the ancient Egyptians.

• Who was Pharaoh Khufu?

  Pharaoh Khufu, also known as Cheops, was an ancient Egyptian ruler of the Fourth Dynasty, reigning during the early part of the Old Kingdom, around 2589–2566 BC. He is best known for commissioning the Great Pyramid of Giza, which served as his tomb and is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Khufu's reign is marked by significant architectural achievements and the centralization of power, which allowed for large-scale projects like the pyramid. His legacy continues to be a subject of fascination, reflecting the grandeur of ancient Egyptian civilization.

• What materials were used in the pyramid?

  The Great Pyramid of Giza was primarily constructed using limestone and granite, with nearly 2 million stone blocks utilized in its building. The outer casing was made of Tura limestone, which was polished to create a smooth surface that reflected sunlight, making the pyramid shine brightly. The inner chambers and structural elements often used granite, sourced from quarries further away, which required significant effort to transport. The choice of materials and their careful placement contributed to the pyramid's durability and its status as a lasting symbol of ancient Egyptian engineering prowess.

• What is the significance of the pyramid's design?

  The design of the Great Pyramid of Giza holds immense significance, both architecturally and culturally. It was designed as a monumental tomb for Pharaoh Khufu, reflecting the ancient Egyptians' beliefs in the afterlife and the importance of the pharaoh's role in society. The pyramid's precise alignment with the cardinal points and its complex internal structure, which includes three main rooms and various tunnels, demonstrate advanced knowledge of geometry and astronomy. The pyramid's design not only served practical purposes in burial practices but also symbolized the pharaoh's divine status and the power of the state, making it a lasting testament to ancient Egyptian civilization.