Stepped Pyramid at Saqqara (Egypt) - called the pyramid of Djoser of the eighteenth century BC
Where is located Step Pyramid?
Address of Step Pyramid is Saqqara, Egypt
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When was built Step Pyramid?
Built date of Step Pyramid is XXVII in. P.n.e.
Facts, informations and history of Step Pyramid
In the heart of the desert, on the outskirts of the small village of Saqqara, lies one of the most important archaeological discoveries in the history of mankind - the Step Pyramid, also known as the Pyramid of Djoser. This monumental work of the ancient architect Imhotep is a milestone in the history of architecture, being not only the first structure built of cut stones, but also the first pyramid in Egyptian history. The Saqqara necropolis was part of the larger necropolis of Memphis, the then capital of Ancient Egypt, and served as the resting place of the pharaohs and their loved ones.
The birth of an ancient masterpiece
The Step Pyramid, designed by the legendary Imhotep, was a revolution in construction. Before its construction, the tombs of the pharaohs were simple mastabas - rectangular structures with sloping walls. However, Imhotep, advisor and architect of Pharaoh Djoser, decided to go one step further and create something that had never existed before. Inspired by the traditional form of the mastaba, he decided to build a pyramid consisting of six increasingly smaller terraces stacked on top of each other, creating a stepped structure that rose towards the sky.
The pyramid was built on a rectangular plan measuring 121 meters long and 109 meters wide, and its height was an impressive 58.8 meters. Huge amounts of stone were used to build it, and the entire structure was designed with eternity in mind, which is why it has survived for millennia and is today one of the most important monuments in Egypt.
The interior of the Pyramid: a temple for eternity
The interior of the Step Pyramid hides many secrets and unusual architectural solutions. The central point is the burial chamber of Pharaoh Djoser which was accessed by a deep shaft. After the king's mummy was placed, the chamber was closed with a huge block of granite weighing three tons, which was supposed to protect the ruler's final resting place against looters.
However, Djoser's burial chamber is only one of many spaces within the pyramid. Inside, there are eleven other shafts that served as burial places for queens and prematurely deceased royal children. Each of these shafts holds separate secrets, and their construction is a testimony to the advanced engineering knowledge of the ancient Egyptians.
Sakkara Necropolis: City of the Dead
The Step Pyramid is the heart of the Saqqara necropolis, a place that served as a cemetery for pharaohs and dignitaries from the Old Kingdom period. This necropolis, located southwest of Cairo, was not only a burial place, but also a religious center where rituals were held to ensure eternal life for the deceased.
The name of the necropolis comes from the small village of Sakkara, which was located nearby. Saqqara was part of the larger necropolis of Memphis, the capital of ancient Egypt, and served as the final resting place for many pharaohs and members of their families. There are also other important monuments in Saqqara, such as mastabas of dignitaries and temples, which testify to the rich history and culture of ancient Egypt.
Imhotep: the first architect of the world
The figure of Imhotep is one of the most fascinating in the history of ancient Egypt. As Pharaoh Djoser's chief architect, Imhotep not only designed the Step Pyramid, but also became a pioneer in cut stone construction. His innovative approach to architecture revolutionized the way buildings were constructed in ancient Egypt, and his influence was felt for centuries to come.
Imhotep was also a scholar and physician, and his medical knowledge was so advanced that in later times he was recognized as the god of medicine. His figure became a symbol of wisdom and knowledge, and his name has survived to this day as a synonym for genius and innovation.
Fascinating facts and curiosities
The Step Pyramid, although known primarily for its impressive structure, hides many fascinating facts and curiosities that add to its mystery. One of the most interesting aspects is the fact that the pyramid was originally covered with white limestone which gave it a shiny appearance in the sunlight. Today, most of this limestone has disappeared, but you can still see fragments of it that testify to the pyramid's former splendor.
Another interesting fact is that the Step Pyramid was part of a larger complex that included courtyards, temples and other structures. The entire complex was designed with eternity in mind, and its layout was intended to symbolize the pharaoh's journey to the afterlife. These additional architectural elements show how complex and thoughtful the designs of the ancient Egyptians were.
Summary
The Step Pyramid of Saqqara is not only one of the most important monuments of ancient Egypt, but also a testimony to the genius and innovation of Imhotep, the first architect in history. Its impressive structure, advanced engineering solutions and rich history make it a place that attracts researchers and tourists from all over the world. The Saqqara necropolis, of which the pyramid is part, is a real open-air museum, where every stone and every shaft hides thousands of years of history.
The journey to Saqqara is a journey into the depths of time, to the era when the first monumental buildings were built and people believed that their souls could survive for centuries. It is a place that reminds us of the power and wisdom of the ancient Egyptians and their extraordinary ability to create works that have stood the test of time.
"The more time we devote to observing this place, the greater admiration we get." - Adellatif
Architect of Step Pyramid

How many meters have Step Pyramid?
Height of Step Pyramid is 58.8 m


Construction/building type
Building Step Pyramid is of type Pyramid
The pyramid is one of the most recognisable architectural forms that has a long history and is found in various cultures around the world. Here is some information about the pyramids, its precursors and the most famous structures of this type.... czytaj więcej.
Other dimensions, parameters and frequently asked questions
What area have Step Pyramid?
Step Pyramid have area of 13189 m²
What material is the building made of?
Step Pyramid is made of the following materials: Stone
Other names
The building is also known by other common names or in the original language, i.e. Piramida Dżesera
Is the building on the UNESCO World Heritage List?

The listing took place in the year 1979.
Details of the entry are available on the Unesco website at https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/86/
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