Behind
the Sphinx are the three mighty pyramids of Giza, built during the reign
of Cheops, Chephren 
and
Mykerinos. We are used to their Greek names, but in the old Egyptian language
they were called Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. They were father, son and
grandson, all members of the 4th Dynasty. Pharaoh Cheops had his pyramid
constructed in 2550 BC. It is estimated it took 100 000 workers at least
20 years to build it. The pyramids of Giza were one of the Seven Wonders
of the World that the Greeks "invented" in ancient times. None
of the others still exist.Cheops'
pyramid is the highest of the three, although an optical illusion makes
it look smaller than Chephren's. The wind erosion has reduced the original
height of 146 meters by nine meters. Its base is 230 meters. The pyramid
is constructed from 2 - 3 tons heavy limestone blocks, each and every one
of them properly put together.
First published: Monday 20th May, 1996.
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