Pyramids of Giza

The Pyramids of Giza are extremely impressive, not only for their size, but also for the precision of their angles, dimensions and orientations. Except for the slightest inaccuracies, they are precisely aligned with the four cardinal directions, and the deviations of the right angles at the corners are also minimal. The pyramids were built around 2500 BC in the 4^th Dynasty of the Old Kingdom. Despite severe damage, the largest of them is still 138.5 m (454 feet) high and is the oldest and last surviving Wonder of the Ancient World. It served as the tomb of King Khufu, also known by his Hellenized name Cheops. The two others are the Pyramid of Khafre at 136.4 m (448 ft), and the Pyramid of Menkaure at 65 m (213 ft). Along with the mortal remains of the deceased kings, the pyramids housed objects which, according to ancient beliefs, the pharaohs would need for their rule in the afterlife.

The Great Sphinx

Just as famous as the pyramids is the Great Sphinx of Giza. A hybrid creature with a lion's body and human head, it is 73 meters (240 ft) long and about 20 meters (66 ft) high. The limestone statue probably represents King Khafre, but even after centuries of research, it still holds many secrets. For example, it is uncertain when and why its nose was broken off and what purpose the gigantic mythical creature was supposed to serve on the banks of the Nile. Another unexplained mystery is a hole in the top of the skull, which has since been closed during restoration work.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

The pyramids and the Great Sphinx are located on the Western Desert plateau about 13 km (8.1 mi) southwest of the center of Cairo and are part of the pyramid fields of Memphis, the capital of the Old Kingdom. In addition to Giza, these include the pyramid complexes of Abusir, Saqqara and Dahshur. In 1979, Memphis and its Necropolis were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.