By Contributing Writer
Although they remain heavily damaged by the sands and the winds of the desert, the Egyptian pyramids that have been identified continue to offer insight into the cultural, religious and political history of the ancient Egyptians.
Identification
Pyramids were tombs that the ancient Egyptians used to bury their dead pharaohs. These structures were built both to honor the pharaohs and to protect their bodies and souls on the journey to the afterlife.
History
The earliest known Egyptian pyramids began being erected during the third dynasty of Egypt. Building continued throughout the time of the pharaohs. The original architect was Imhotep, who designed his pyramid as a tomb for the pharaoh Djoser.
Features
The Egyptian pyramids are constructed primarily from limestone. The reason for their pyramid shape is a matter of continued debate among experts.
Misconceptions
Although it was originally believed that the pyramids were built entirely by slave labor, historians now dispute this. Skeletons and other archaeological evidence now supports the theory that the builders of the pyramids were primarily Egyptians who lived in nearby villages and who were employees of the pharaoh.
Fun Fact
Construction of a pyramid began at the beginning of the current pharaoh's reign. The height of the pyramid was ultimately determined by the length of the pharaoh's reign.
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