The Great Pyramid of King Khufu, also known as the Pyramid of Cheops, is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and remains an enduring symbol of ancient Egyptian civilization. Situated on the Giza Plateau near Cairo, Egypt, it is the largest of the three pyramids in Giza and stands as a monumental testament to the architectural and engineering skills of the ancient Egyptians.

The pyramid was built during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom, around 2580–2560 BCE, under the reign of Pharaoh Khufu (also known as Cheops). It is believed to have originally stood at 481 feet (146 meters) tall, though today it is slightly shorter due to the loss of the outer casing stones. The Great Pyramid’s base covers an area of 13 acres and consists of an estimated 2.3 million limestone blocks, each weighing several tons. The construction of such a massive structure continues to spark debates and theories regarding the methods used by the ancient Egyptians.

Despite the lack of detailed historical records on its construction, the pyramid’s design and engineering are a marvel. It was originally covered with highly polished Tura limestone, which would have reflected the sun’s rays, making it shine brightly. Inside the pyramid, a series of chambers and passageways lead to the burial chamber of King Khufu, though his tomb remains undiscovered.

The Great Pyramid was the tallest man-made structure in the world for over 3,800 years, demonstrating the ancient Egyptians’ sophisticated knowledge of mathematics, astronomy, and labor management. Today, it remains one of the most iconic and studied monuments in the world, continuing to inspire awe and wonder in all who visit.