Key Concepts of Ancient Egyptian Pyramids

The West Bank of the River Nile is notably home to the Pyramids of Giza, monumental tombs built for the pharaohs. Despite ancient Egyptian civilization thriving for nearly three thousand years, the construction of large pyramids spanned only a few centuries. Egyptologist Chris Naughton highlights the mystery of why this monumental practice ceased, especially in light of such magnificent structures.

Just ten miles south of Giza lies Saqqara, the original site of pyramid construction. Here, Chris explores Egypt's first pyramid, built for Pharaoh Djoser. This step pyramid, rising 200 feet and consisting of six limestone platforms, represents the beginning of monumental stone architecture in Egypt. Inside, a deep shaft serves as the burial site, designed to ensure the pharaoh was honored and remembered posthumously.

Djoser’s pyramid paved the way for future monumental tombs along the Nile, including the Red Pyramid and the Bent Pyramid, representing a significant architectural evolution. However, after the construction of the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the era of giant pyramid-building came to an end, heralding a new phase in Egyptian history.