203 Steps to the Top

I've realized that as I'm finding places I want to visit I've avoided some very important popular places! The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World must not be overlooked so I will now explore a country that includes one of those wonders.

courtesy of flicker

Egypt

Destination one when you are in Egypt has to be the pyramids of Giza. Although they may not be the most exciting place for some, they are the Wonder that comes from Egypt and they can easily contend with the most recognizable piece of the world. Known as some of the "most magnificent man-made structures in history," the sheer massiveness of these pyramids bring awe to tourists everywhere. The pyramids were built in the beginning of the Old Egyptian Kingdom, and they ended around the sixth dynasty (roughly 2325 BC). The oldest known pyramid is known as Step Pyramid and was built at Saqqara in 2630 BC. Giza is the oldest of the three pyramids of Giza and is the most celebrated pyramid (it's also where the title of this blog comes from). This pyramid is the only surviving structure out of the seven ancient wonders!

 

Step Pyramid

Pyramid of Giza

Going back a few sentences, I want to point out something. Cool thing about Saqqara... you can go inside a the pyramids here!...

I'll just let that soak in...

Who wouldn't want to!

Unless you're claustrophobic of course, then I wouldn't recommend it.

Inside Saqqara --  the Djoser Pyramid

The next big thing about Egypt is the Great Sphinx. With the head of a human and a lion's body the statue is "the first truly colossal royal sculpture in Egypt." Next to the pyramids its a national symbol of Egypt, no matter what time period you're talking about. Located south of Khafre's pyramid at Giza one cannot forget the fact that this monumental statue is also connected to a temple! Honestly there's no losing here because as long as you make it to Giza you're guaranteed to see at least two of the most known worldly structures.

The Great Sphinx

Although there are plenty of other places you can explore in Egypt, from Cairo, the Egyptian Museums, and Luxor, to the Nile (of course), and their gods' temples, the two next places are the final two I will recommend for Egypt. The Valley of the Kings is a royal burial ground for a large amount of Egyptian pharaohs, queens, priests, and other elites. I can only imagine the atmosphere around the place, mystic and other worldly. After being on a college campus for a while I feel like the change in just the atmosphere would be its own adventure. The other place is known as Karnak Temple. Being the largest religious building ever made, the place spells playground! You could very easily wonder through the 200 acres of land exploring the Hypostyle hall or the statue of the god Amun and not see another tourist for hours at a time!

 

Valley of the Kings

Karnak Temple

Like I said... playground.

Egypt itself is like a giant amusement park of history and exploration!