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Ancient Egypt is well known for its culture and creativity. It’s art dates as far back as 3000BC, and it teaches us a whole lot about the civilisation. Their architecture, is diverse, ranging from pyramids to temples. They are widely considered to be one of the most influential cultures that developed many sciences and arts, including architecture. Many of the more notable structures still stand, even though they were built over 4,000 years ago, with hieroglyphs that tell the story of an empire. While some facts about the structures are really surprising, others are just amazing, and we’ve put together information on 5 of the most renowned pieces of ancient Egyptian architecture for you.
Great Pyramid of Giza
Otherwise known as the Pyramid of Khufu or the Pyramid of Cheops, this structure is considered to be the oldest of all the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. Of the three pyramids in Giza (Khafra and Menkaure being the other two) it is the only one to have three separate pharaohs command over its construction; Pharaoh Khufu, Khafre then Menkaure.
The construction took almost 20 years, and around two million blocks of stone were used to make it stand a staggering 139 meters into the sky! It is the highest pyramid in Egypt. Its interior contains three chambers, one a beautiful bedrock, the second specifically for the king and queen and the last room – made of granite – is solely for the king.
Valley of the Kings
Containing the tombs constructed for the Pharaohs and most potent Egyptian Nobles, the valley sits on the west banks of the river Nile. Each of the 63 tombs and chambers has a level of remaining decoration which consists of the art and architecture of Egyptian mythology of the time.
Tutankhamun tomb is one of the most famous of all the monuments in the valley. It’s one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, the monuments holding some of the most sacred remaining objects.
Colossi of Memnon
A vast structure courtesy of Pharaoh Amenhotep III who ruled in the Dynasty XVII – the structure now sits in the slightly more modernised city Luxor. Unfortunately, the faces of the statues have been victim to erosion and therefore are no longer recognisable. Regardless, the picturesque figures still stand 75 ft high and weigh a modest 750 tonnes.
Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut
Dedicated to the sun god Amon-Ra, the incredible structure was commanded into existence by Hatshepsut who ruled the kingdom from 1479 BC until his death in 1458 BC.
Located on the cliffs at Deir el Bahari and is considered one of the unique monuments in all of Ancient Egypt.
The wall of the temple has been crafted so that the sunlight will come from the rear wall of the chapel. This temple is a unique example of classical Ancient Egyptian architecture.
Pyramid of Djoser
Also known as the step pyramid, the Pyramid of Djoser was the first ever to be ordered by Egyptian Kings. Constructed during the 27th century BC for the purposed of burying the Pharaoh Djoser by Imhotep and his vizier.
With a substantial mortuary complex surrounded by beautiful structures and decorations, the architecture, built in decreasing mastabas, stands 62 meters high and consists of limestone.
See It All for Yourself
If you’ve always had a longing to check out the art and architecture, why not consider a trip with Oasis Overland? Our journey from Cairo to Addis Ababa takes in an incredible culture, and although you won’t be able to see everything on our list, you will be able to take in iconic sights such as the pyramids and sphinx, the moments at Tiya, and so much more.
If you’ve got any questions about our Egyptian adventure, feel free to ask our team – we’re always happy to help!