Beyond Gisa: The Other Pyramids in Egypt and Beyond Chris Caggiano October 8, 2024 general, International Travel, Travel Tips When people think of pyramids, the iconic structures at Giza often come to mind first. But the world is home to far more pyramids than you might expect—spanning continents and cultures, from Egypt’s lesser-known sites to ancient civilizations across Africa, the Americas, and even parts of Europe and Asia. In fact, some of the most fascinating pyramidal structures lie outside of Giza, in places like Sudan’s Meroë or Mexico’s Teotihuacan. These ancient marvels take on various forms, representing different building techniques, spiritual beliefs, and historical significance. Whether you’re fascinated by the towering temples of Central America or intrigued by the mystery of China’s tomb pyramids, there’s a wealth of sites around the globe to discover. Africa Ancient pyramids in Meroë, Sudan Egypt While Giza’s pyramids, including the Great Pyramid, are the most famous, Egypt is home to other impressive pyramid sites. Saqqara, located just outside Cairo, boasts the Step Pyramid of Djoser, considered one of the earliest pyramid constructions. Unlike the smooth-sided pyramids of Giza, the Step Pyramid is a terraced structure that marked a significant innovation in ancient Egyptian architecture. Saqqara’s expansive necropolis offers visitors a glimpse into the evolution of pyramid building and the burial practices of early dynasties. Sudan Venturing south of Egypt, Sudan’s Nubian pyramids are an often-overlooked treasure. The ancient Kingdom of Kush, which thrived in what is now Sudan, built hundreds of pyramids at sites like Meroë and Nuri. These pyramids, smaller and steeper than their Egyptian counterparts, served as royal tombs for Kushite kings and queens. The pyramids of Meroë, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are especially striking, standing amid the vast desert landscape and offering an opportunity to explore the region’s history. North America Teotihuacan, Mexico Mexico Mexico is home to some of the most extraordinary pyramids outside of Egypt, many of which were constructed by ancient Mesoamerican civilizations. Just outside of Mexico City lies Teotihuacan, a vast ancient city that features two massive pyramids: the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. These structures, once used for ceremonial purposes, are remarkable for their size and precision, showcasing the architectural prowess of the civilization that built them. In the town of Cholula, near Puebla, you’ll find the Great Pyramid of Cholula. This pyramid holds the title of the largest pyramid by volume in the world, though much of it is now covered in vegetation. Visitors can explore its intricate tunnel system, offering a glimpse into its grand scale. Chichén Itzá, located in the Yucatán Peninsula, is home to the famous Pyramid of Kukulcán, also known as El Castillo. This pyramid is well known for its alignment with the equinoxes, during which the sun creates the illusion of a serpent descending its steps. This structure is a powerful example of the astronomical knowledge held by the ancient Maya. Guatemala Guatemala is home to the ancient Maya city of Tikal, where towering pyramids rise above the rainforest canopy. These steep-sided structures, used for religious ceremonies and royal burials, offer breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle. Tikal remains one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Americas, showcasing the grandeur of the Maya civilization through its pyramids and ceremonial spaces. South America Machu Picchu, Cusco, Peru Peru Peru’s ancient cultures also left their mark with impressive pyramidal structures, although they may differ in appearance from the classic Egyptian or Mesoamerican designs. The archaeological site of Caral, located in the Supe Valley, is one of the oldest civilizations in the Americas. Here, pyramid-like structures rise from the desert, built for ceremonial and possibly administrative purposes. Caral’s pyramids are less about towering height and more about their historical significance, marking one of the earliest examples of complex urban planning in the world. Another iconic destination is Machu Picchu, the famous Incan citadel perched high in the Andes. Though not a traditional pyramid, its terraced structures are reminiscent of pyramid-like designs. These terraces served both agricultural and ceremonial purposes, and their construction highlights the ingenuity of Incan engineering. Machu Picchu’s blend of dramatic natural setting and ancient architectural achievement makes it one of South America’s must-see destinations for history and culture enthusiasts. Brazil In the state of Maranhão in Brazil, there are ruins of pyramidal structures attributed to the Marajoara culture on Marajó Island, dating back to around 400 CE. Though not as towering or intricate as other ancient pyramids, these mound-like pyramids, known as “tesos,” served both practical and ceremonial purposes. Built from layers of compacted earth, they were used for habitation, helping the Marajoara people elevate their homes above flood-prone areas, and were also thought to hold religious significance. The Marajoara civilization, known for its advanced pottery and art, left these “tesos” as part of their enduring architectural legacy, blending functionality with spiritual importance. Bolivia At the ancient site of Tiwanaku, located near the shores of Lake Titicaca in Bolivia, the Akapana Pyramid stands as a testament to the architectural achievements of the Tiwanaku civilization, which flourished between 500 and 1000 CE. The Akapana was once a seven-tiered, terraced pyramid, originally clad in stone blocks that have since been removed, leaving the structure heavily eroded. Despite its weathered appearance today, the Akapana was likely a sacred site used for religious and ceremonial activities, reflecting the Tiwanaku people’s advanced understanding of engineering and astronomy. The pyramid’s design, with its water drainage systems and precise construction, underscores the sophistication of this pre-Columbian civilization. Asia Gunung Padang, Indonesia China China’s most famous pyramidal structure is the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, located near Xi’an. This vast burial complex is home to the famous Terracotta Army, but the emperor’s tomb itself is a massive earthwork pyramid. Though not as immediately recognizable as stone pyramids in other parts of the world, this structure is significant in its scale and historical importance. The site remains largely unexcavated, adding to the mystery surrounding it, and is one of China’s most intriguing ancient landmarks. Indonesia In Indonesia, Gunung Padang is a site that has sparked debate among archaeologists and historians. Some believe the terraced hill is an ancient man-made pyramid, while others argue it is a natural formation later adapted by early civilizations. If proven to be a pyramid, Gunung Padang could represent the oldest pyramid structure in the world, adding a fascinating new chapter to our understanding of ancient history. The site’s layered terraces and large stone blocks make it a distinctive site to visit for those interested in ancient mysteries. You Might Also Enjoy: More Than Just Pyramids: Other Ancient Sites to Visit Near Cairo Europe Pyramid of Cestius, Rome Italy In the heart of Rome, Italy stands an unexpected pyramidal structure—the Pyramid of Cestius. Built around 18-12 BCE as a tomb for Gaius Cestius, a Roman magistrate, this pyramid is smaller and steeper than its Egyptian counterparts, but its design was directly inspired by Egypt’s pyramids, which had fascinated the Romans after Egypt became part of the Roman Empire. The Pyramid of Cestius is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome, offering a glimpse into the city’s diverse architectural influences and its connection to Egyptian culture. Bosnia and Herzegovina In recent years, Bosnia and Herzegovina has become known for the so-called Bosnian Pyramids, a set of hills near the town of Visoko that some claim are man-made pyramids. This theory has sparked significant controversy within the archaeological community, with many experts dismissing the site as natural formations. However, proponents of the theory argue that these hills were shaped and used by an ancient civilization. While scientific consensus leans toward the natural formation explanation, the site continues to attract visitors interested in archaeological mysteries and alternative history. FAQs: Q: Are all pyramids open to the public? A: While many pyramids are open for visitors, some are restricted due to preservation concerns. For example, the interior of the Great Pyramid in Giza is accessible, while other sites, such as the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor in China, remain largely unexcavated and closed to the public. Q: What is the best time of year to visit pyramid sites? A: The best time varies by location. In Egypt and Sudan, cooler months from October to April are ideal. For Central and South American sites, dry seasons (typically November to April) provide the most pleasant conditions. Q: Do I need a guide to visit pyramid sites? A: While not required, hiring a guide can greatly enhance the experience, offering valuable historical and cultural insights. For complex sites like Teotihuacan or Tikal, a guide is especially recommended to help navigate and understand the significance of the structures. Q: What should I wear when visiting pyramids? A: Wear comfortable, breathable clothing, especially in hot climates like Egypt, Mexico, or Sudan. Sturdy walking shoes are essential for exploring uneven terrain, and a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended for protection against the sun. Q: Are there entrance fees to visit pyramids? A: Most pyramid sites charge entrance fees, which vary by location. For example, Giza charges a higher fee for pyramid interior access, while Mexico’s Chichén Itzá and Guatemala’s Tikal also have standard admission costs. Always check in advance for current rates. Q: Are there accommodations near pyramid sites? A: Many pyramid sites are located near major tourist areas with a range of accommodations. For example, Giza is near Cairo, where you’ll find numerous hotels. In Mexico, Teotihuacan is close to Mexico City, and Tikal offers lodges near the archaeological site. Q: Can I take photos at pyramid sites? A: Photography is usually allowed at most pyramid sites, but some may restrict the use of tripods or professional equipment without a permit. Always check site regulations before visiting to avoid fines or penalties. Do you know of any pyramids that we left off our list? Tell us about it in the comments below!
