Top 10 Largest Ancient Pyramids

This ancient wonder is located on the outskirts of modern-day Cairo, Egypt, and is believed to have been built as a tomb for Pharaoh Khufu around 2580 BC. The pyramid's original height was approximately 146 meters (480 feet), making it the tallest man-made structure in the world for over 3,800 years. It is estimated that around 2.3 million stone blocks, weighing an average of 2.5 tons each, were used to build the pyramid. The Great Pyramid is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and holds great historical significance in Egypt's rich architectural heritage. The pyramid's construction required the labor of thousands of skilled workers, many of whom were slaves or prisoners. Due to its immense size and age, the Great Pyramid remains a fascinating example of ancient engineering and architecture.

Located near the Great Pyramid of Giza on the same Giza plateau in Egypt, this pyramid was built by Pharaoh Khafre as his own tomb around 2520 BC. The pyramid's original height was approximately 143 meters (469 feet), slightly smaller than its predecessor. It is estimated that around 1.3 million stone blocks were used to build the pyramid, weighing an average of 2 tons each. The Pyramid of Khafre features a similar architecture to the Great Pyramid but with some notable differences in design and construction. This pyramid was originally the taller one, but erosion has reduced its height over time. Due to its proximity to the Great Pyramid, the Pyramid of Khafre is also considered a valuable piece of Egypt's ancient history.

Located on the Giza plateau in Egypt, this pyramid was built by Pharaoh Menkaure as his own tomb around 2490 BC. The pyramid's original height was approximately 65 meters (213 feet), significantly smaller than its predecessors. It is estimated that around 1 million stone blocks were used to build the pyramid, weighing an average of 1 ton each. The Pyramid of Menkaure features a more streamlined design compared to the Great and Khafre pyramids, with a square base and four triangular sides. This pyramid was likely constructed using advanced architectural techniques for its time. As one of the last pyramids built on the Giza plateau, it remains an important archaeological site.

Located in Dahshur, Egypt, this pyramid was built by Pharaoh Sneferu as his own tomb around 2580 BC. The pyramid's original height was approximately 105 meters (344 feet), making it one of the tallest pyramids ever constructed. It is estimated that around 180,000 stone blocks were used to build the pyramid, weighing an average of 2 tons each. The Red Pyramid features a unique, asymmetrical design with a steep, narrow slope. This pyramid was likely designed to solve problems associated with stability and structure in older pyramidal construction methods.

Also located in Dahshur, Egypt, this pyramid was built by Pharaoh Sneferu as his own tomb around 2600 BC. The pyramid's original height was approximately 101 meters (331 feet), but its steep angle caused structural instability. It is estimated that around 170,000 stone blocks were used to build the pyramid, weighing an average of 2 tons each. The Bent Pyramid features a mix of conventional and innovative construction techniques for its time. Its unique shape is thought to have been designed to demonstrate Pharaoh Sneferu's innovative architectural approach.

Located in Saqqara, Egypt, this pyramid was built by Pharaoh Djoser as his own tomb around 2650 BC. The pyramid's original height was approximately 60 meters (197 feet), making it one of the earliest pyramids ever constructed. It is estimated that around 100,000 stone blocks were used to build the pyramid, weighing an average of 1 ton each. The Step Pyramid features a series of six mastabas stacked on top of each other, creating a stepped structure. This unique design allowed Pharaoh Djoser to overcome initial construction challenges.

Located in Saqqara, Egypt, this pyramid was built by Pharaoh Userkaf as his own tomb around 2494 BC. The pyramid's original height was approximately 43 meters (141 feet), significantly smaller than its predecessors. It is estimated that around 40,000 stone blocks were used to build the pyramid, weighing an average of 1 ton each. The Pyramid of Userkaf features a rectangular base and four triangular sides, with a smooth, unadorned exterior surface.

Located in Saqqara, Egypt, this pyramid was built by Pharaoh Unas as his own tomb around 2350 BC. The pyramid's original height was approximately 37 meters (121 feet), the smallest of all the pyramids on the list. It is estimated that around 30,000 stone blocks were used to build the pyramid, weighing an average of 1 ton each. The Pyramid of Unas features a unique combination of conventional and innovative construction techniques for its time.

Located in Saqqara, Egypt, this pyramid was built by Pharaoh Teti as his own tomb around 2330 BC. The pyramid's original height was approximately 43 meters (141 feet), with some evidence suggesting it may have been slightly taller originally. It is estimated that around 40,000 stone blocks were used to build the pyramid, weighing an average of 1 ton each.

Located in Tanis, Egypt, this pyramid was built by Pharaoh Ahmose I as his own tomb around 1570 BC. The pyramid's original height was approximately 40 meters (131 feet), significantly smaller than its predecessors. It is estimated that around 20,000 stone blocks were used to build the pyramid, weighing an average of 1 ton each. This pyramid represents the first true pyramid in Egypt during the New Kingdom period and showcases significant advancements in architectural techniques over earlier periods.