Ancient Egypt Research Paper

Words: 486
Pages: 2

There are over eighty Pyramids within Egypt, and a great many more throughout the world, all ranging in different sizes, shape, age and material (Putnam 1994). The Pyramids of Egypt are found at many different locations across the River Nile, yet looking specifically at the location of the Great Pyramid, or rather Khufu’s Pyramid located in the Giza plateau. But why that specific location? Well generally when choosing a site for a structure of this size and significance, there is around five basic requirements that need to be fulfilled (Chrisp 2006).

The first and most basic requirement for the location of the Pyramid is to consider the religious significance. Meaning that the structure would have to be constructed on the west side of the Nile River, as that bank specifically in ancient times was the side of the setting sun, signifying the movement of life to the afterlife for the ancient people. (Jackson & Stamp 2004). Religion to the ancient Egyptians was the most important aspect to their everyday lives, it was woven into every social and cultural aspect of their civilization. Even when Egypt was conquered by the Persians, their culture and people remained the same. Their religion did not change, nor was it questioned, the Persians accepted that to rule Egypt, they had to become one of their people. The same thing happened when
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The site had to be out of the Niles flood path, so for safety reasons it had to be on higher ground, which is evident with the site of Giza (Jackson & Stamp 2004). Another basic requirement, is the sites practicality as it affects the second reason. Logically, since the construction would be so massive materials would need to come in from the Nile by boat, as well as be close enough to a query so that the importation of materials is minimum (Chrisp