The Pyramids of Egypt

These incredible structures were built as tombs for the pharaohs and queens of this proud nation. Throughout this ancient civilization there are numerous pyramids of all sizes and differing shapes, but all pointing upwards, towards the heavens.

Three of the most preserved and photographed are the pyramids of Giza, situated just outside of the Egyptian capital of Cairo. These structures were built around 2500 B.C. and are immense. Commonly known as pyramids built during the Old Kingdom, the other newer pyramids, but still thousands of years old, were known as the Middle Kingdom Pyramids.

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Over time, the pyramids became smaller, as centralized power was reduced and the cost and time to build them became less important. As time went by, the pyramids were shoddily and hastily built.

But they still remain for you to enjoy. And easily accessible by road or via the Nile river, as all pyramids are on the banks of this majestic river.

There are approximately 80 pyramids discovered. Some are in quite an advanced state of disrepair while others are standing up well under the current meteorological conditions and time. Due to the shifting sands of the Egyptian desert, experts believe there may be more under the sand and yet to be discovered.

Luckily, the newest pyramid to be discovered was in November 2008, that of Queen Sesheshet, located at Saqqara.

Along with the beauty of these structures, the hieroglyphics written in and around them and the sheer manpower needed to build them, makes the pyramids of Egypt a worthwhile holiday location for the entire family.