Architectural Marvels of Ancient Egypt

Egypt is home to some of the most impressive architectural marvels in the world. Temples, pyramids, and various statues dating back to Ancient Egypt have mesmerized people for thousands of years now. One of these marvels is the Karnak Temple. The most unique aspect of Karnak is the fact that its development did not end for 1600 years. Historians estimate that at least 30 pharaohs contributed to the temple by adding buildings, columns, obelisks, and other structures. Moreover, despite being one of the most important temples in Egypt, the Western world was not aware of its existence until the 16th century.

karnak temple of Architectural Marvels of Ancient Egypt
Egyptian civilization

One of the architectural marvels of Ancient Egypt, maybe the most impressive of them, is surely the Great Pyramid of Giza. The oldest of the Seven Wonders of the World, standing at a height of 138 meters, and consisting of 2.3 million stone blocks, this pyramid is architectural excellence at its best.

giza of Architectural Marvels of Ancient Egypt
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In addition, the Giza pyramid is the largest pyramid in Eygpt as well. It took 27 years to finish it and it served as the tomb of Khufu. Archeologists estimate that the pyramid is nearly 4600 years old which is quite impressive that it still stands today. Many speculations surround the construction of the pyramid, or basically how it was possible to build such a monument thousands of years ago. A huge amount of workforce was probably present in the building process as many estimate that 40,000 people worked to make the pyramid. Still, even to this day, the secrets of the Giza Pyramid are not fully uncovered.

giza pyramid of Architectural Marvels of Ancient Egypt
Henry Miles
pyramids of Architectural Marvels of Ancient Egypt
pyramids and the city
giza and the stones nearby

Near the Pyramid of Giza, there stands the Sphinx, officially known as the Great Sphinx of Giza. The sphinx is a mythical creature that is believed to be a guardian that represents strength and courage. The Sphinx of Giza is 73 meters long, and 20 meters tall and is the oldest monumental sculpture in Egypt. Despite its size, the Sphinx was almost completely under sand as the people left Giza at some point. Although its head was in the open and people from all nations in ancient times marveled at it, it was only in the 19th century that archeologists unearthed its body.

sphinx of Architectural Marvels of Ancient Egypt
Wilfredo Laboren
the sphinx head
sphinx and giza of Architectural Marvels of Ancient Egypt
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The two most crucial architectural marvels of Ancient Egypt are in the historic site of Abu Simbel. Especially, the Great Temple of Abu Simbel is a fascinating example of Ancient Egypt’s finesse. The temple’s most striking feature is the four giant statues right at the entrance. The statues represent Ramesses II on a throne wearing the crown of Egypt. Additionally, the hieroglyphs and artistic drawings in the interior of the temple are some of the most detailed in Egypt.

abu simbel of Architectural Marvels of Ancient Egypt
abu simbel inside
abu simbel interior walls
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