Giza Plateau, Archaeological site in Giza, Egypt
This site is a limestone formation in Giza in Egypt that extends over roughly three square kilometers and holds three large pyramids, smaller tombs, and the Sphinx. The surface sits on a gently northwest-sloping plane and shows traces of natural erosion in several places.
Construction of the monuments began during the Fourth Dynasty of Old Egypt, with the first large structure appearing around 2686 before our era. Later rulers added further structures, so the complex grew over generations.
Priests once traveled here to perform ceremonies that maintained the divine connection of departed rulers. These religious acts took place in dedicated rooms within the burial complexes, where offerings were also left behind.
Two main roads lead to the complex, with the northern route reaching the Pyramid of Khufu and the eastern path approaching the Sphinx. The ground is solid limestone, so sturdy footwear is advisable even in dry weather.
The rock layer contains numerous natural caves formed by wind abrasion. Additionally, the entire surface tilts at roughly five degrees toward the northwest, which was taken into account when planning the monuments.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
