The Great Pyramid of Egypt (also called Pyramid of Khufu and Pyramid of Cheops) is the largest of the seven wonders of the world that is basically still intact. The structure has been an enigma to mankind for ages. It is believed that the pyramid was built as a tomb for the 4th Dynasty Egyptian Pharaoh Khufu. It consists of 23 million limestone blocks - obtained from a nearby quarry. The largest granite stones, found in the King's Chamber and weighs 25 - 80 tonnes - were transported more than 500 miles from Aswan. It is believed that the pyramid was constructed over a 20 year period concluding around 2551 B.C.. There are 3 known chambers inside the Great Pyramid. The lowest chamber is cut into the bedrock upon which the pyramid was built and is unfinished. The Queen's Chamber and the King's Chamber are higher up within the pyramid structure. The Great Pyramid is the main part of a complex setting of buildings that included two mortuary temples, in honour of Khufu; 3 smaller ones for Khufu's wives and an even smaller 'satellite' pyramid and a raised causeway connecting the 2 temples and small mastaba tombs surrounding the pyramid for the Nobles. |