Why are the pyramids important to history?
On One Hand: Archaeological and Cultural SignificanceThe pyramids are among the oldest human-made structures on earth. In fact, the Great Pyramid of Giza is the only one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World that is largely intact. Used as tombs for the pharaohs, the structure and archaeological composition of the pyramids provide important clues regarding the beliefs and engineering capabilities of the ancient Egyptians.On the Other: Mathematical SignificanceThe pyramids also provide evidence of the mathematical capabilities of the ancient Egyptians. The Great Pyramid at Giza, for example, is almost directly aligned with the celestial meridian, facing true north. The radius of circumference of this pyramid is identical to its height, implying that the ancient Egyptians understood the concept of pi.Bottom LineThe Egyptian pyramids–numbering over 100 built between approximately 2630 B.C. and 1530 B.C.–provide important evidence of the culture, beliefs and capabilities of the ancie
