 |
Where did the pyramids come from? |
Pyramids were first built over 4,000 years ago as monuments to important Egyptians who passed away. It had been traditional to build large tombs for Pharos but eventually the shape of those tombs developed into the pyramid shape we recognize today- a four sided structure with rows of steps that narrow to a point. It is thought that there are over 100 Egyptian pyramids still standing!
Archeologists (scientists who study artifacts from previous cultures) have different ideas about the symbols behind pyramids, but many believe that the shape represents the rays of the sun. Egyptians of this time believed that after people died on Earth, they traveled to a new place. The tombs within the pyramids were a way to take care of the bodies and prepare them for their next life.
It is thought that the great pyramids were built by paid Egyptian workers who spent very long days moving rocks in the hot sun. Talk about hard work! One of the largest pyramids, the Pyramid at Giza, is said to have taken decades to build with thousands and thousands workers. This pyramid was the tallest man made structure for over 3,800 years. Wow!
Pyramid Project! Build your own! Use some sticks from the yard, thin blocks, pick-up sticks or even pretzel-sticks to create your own pyramid. First take 2 sticks and lay them side by side several inches apart. Then take 2 more sticks and lay them on top of the first set, but in the opposite direction. Keep adding layers using slightly smaller sticks and see how high you can go! The sky is the limit!