The Pyramids
Pyramids History
The first historically documented Egyptian pyramid is attributed to the architect Imhotep, who planned what Egyptologists believe to be a tomb for the pharaoh Djoser. Amenhotep is credited with being the first to conceive the notion of stacking mastabas on top of each other — creating an edifice composed of a number of “steps” that decreased in size towards its apex. The result was the Step Pyramid of Djoser — which was designed to serve as a gigantic stairway by which the soul of the deceased pharaoh could ascend to the heavens. Such was the importance of Imhotep’s achievement that he was deified by later Egyptians.
The most prolific pyramid-building phase coincided with the greatest degree of absolutist pharaonic rule. It was during this time that the most famous pyramids, those near Giza, were built. Over time, as authority became less centralized, the ability and willingness to harness the resources required for construction on a massive scale decreased, and later pyramids were smaller, less well-built and often hastily constructed.
Pyramids Visitor Information
The pyramids are open every day until 4pm. During the summer when they are open until 5pm. Entrance to the sites costs about 100 USD.
Getting around the pyramids is very easy. You can walk, take a horse and buggy or take a camel ride, a taxi, or even the metro. A taxi from the center of Cairo is probably the easiest way to get to the Pyramids, although mini and micro buses also make frequent trips. The city itself goes right up to the Pyramids and you can see them from every rooftop.
You can go inside the pyramids but entry is restricted to 300 people per day so get there early. Additionally, the area is filled with touts and thieves so watch your personal possessions.
Pyramids Conservation Efforts
Several years ago, a master plan was drawn up to manage and restore the monuments of Giza in four phases. Most of the phases been completed. The final phase of the project is a 10-15 year program of maintenance and research. It includes staff training for proper administer the site, up-to-date conservation whenever necessary and to continue the clearing and research programs that will enhance the site for visitors and scholars. There is also plan for re-excavation and clearing, especially in the cemeteries to the east and west of the Great Pyramid.