The Pyramids of Giza were once named one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The site received the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization World Heritage site designation in 1979. These structures were built starting around 2550 B.C. The pyramids were built to last forever and have already made it through 4,500 years. The size and shape of these pyramids lead many people to wonder how and why they were built.


1. Location of the Pyramids

The Pyramids of Giza are located on the west bank of the Nile River in northern Egypt close to Cairo. They were erected on a rocky plateau that forms a solid base. It is estimated that the construction of the largest one took approximately 20 years. The best guess as to how they were built is with a system of ramps that encircled embankment around the pyramid that rose as the structure increased in height. Regardless of how they were constructed, they show a valuable glimpse into life during the life of the pharaohs.

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