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Pyramids of Egypt

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18 views

Pyramids of Egypt

Uploaded by

wajihaf27
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Pyramids of Egypt

By Shumaila khan
 Definition:
The pyramids are monumental structures built as tombs for
pharaohs and best members of society during ancient Egypt.
 Purpose:
They served as grand burial sites intended to ensure the
deceased's journey to the afterlife and demonstrate the pharaoh's
power and divine status.
 Construction:
Built using massive limestone and granite blocks, their
construction involved skilled laborers, specific engineering, and
advanced architectural techniques
Notable Examples:

 The Great Pyramid of Giza:


Built for Pharaoh Khufu (Cheops) around 2580-2560 BCE, it
is the largest and most famous pyramid, originally reaching 146.6
meters (481 feet) in height.
 The Pyramid of Khafre:
Slightly smaller than Khufu's, it is notable for having some
of the original casing stones at its apex.
 The Pyramid of Menkaure:
The smallest of the three main pyramids at Giza, built for
Pharaoh Menkaure.
Three Kingdoms of Ancient Egypt
Old Kingdom (c. 2686-2181 BCE)
 Overview: Often referred to as the "Age of the Pyramids," this
period marked the height of pyramid construction and the
establishment of a strong centralized state.
 Key Features:
 Development of monumental architecture, especially the
construction of pyramids.
 Pharaohs were seen as god-kings with absolute power.
 Significant advancements in art and writing, including
hieroglyphics and statuary.
 Notable Pharaohs:
 Khufu (Cheops) – Builder of the Great Pyramid.
 Snefru – Initiated the transition from step pyramids to true pyramids
 Key Features:
 Development of monumental architecture, especially the
construction of pyramids.
 Pharaohs were seen as god-kings with absolute power.
 Significant advancements in art and writing, including
hieroglyphics and statuary.
 Notable Pharaohs:
 Khufu (Cheops) – Builder of the Great Pyramid.
 Snefru – Initiated the transition from step pyramids to true pyramids
Middle Kingdom (c. 2055-1650
BCE)

 Overview:
This period is known for its cultural renaissance, a focus on
literature, art, and architecture, as well as the expansion of trade and
military expeditions.
 Key Features:
 A shift towards more democratic governance and greater emphasis
on the welfare of the people.
 Revival of large-scale construction projects, though less grand than
the Old Kingdom.
 Enhanced focus on the afterlife, leading to more elaborate tombs
and burial practices.
 Notable Pharaohs:
 Mentuhotep II – Credited with reunifying Egypt after a period of
chaos.
 Senusret III – Known for military campaigns and building projects.
New Kingdom (c. 1550-1070 BCE)

 Overview:
The New Kingdom represents the peak of Egypt's
power, wealth, and artistic achievement, with
expansive territorial conquests and flourishing
arts.
 Key Features:
 Significant advancements in art, with a focus on realism and elaborate
tomb paintings.
 Construction of grand temples and monuments, reflecting the power
of the pharaohs and the importance of the gods.
 The era saw a complex pantheon of gods and more elaborate burial
practices.
 Notable Pharaohs:
 Hatshepsut – The first female pharaoh, known for her trade
expeditions and monumental architecture.
 Ramses II – Known as Ramses the Great, he led military campaigns
and built numerous monuments, including the temples at Abu Simbel.
Summary

 The pyramids symbolize the architectural and cultural achievements


of ancient Egypt, while the three kingdoms represent distinct phases
of its history, each contributing to the development of art,
governance, and society. Together, they form the foundation of one
of the most enduring civilizations in history.

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