A step pyramid is a temple tower that is composed of lots of tiers (or steps) of stone. Ancient cultures all around the globe created step pyramids. The earliest pyramids of ancient Egypt were step pyramids. In Mesopotamia and Persia, tower temples called ziggurats were designed as early as the 3rd millennium BC. This exploration delves into The 19 Most Impressive Step Pyramids Around the World, highlighting their historical context, architectural features, and cultural importance.
1. Pyramid of Djoser, Egypt
| Location | Constructed | Original Height |
|---|---|---|
| Saqqara, Egypt | c. 2630 BCE | 62 meters (204 ft) |
The Pyramid of Djoser, also known as the Step Pyramid of Djoser, is a groundbreaking architectural achievement located in Saqqara, Egypt. Constructed around 2630 BCE during the Third Dynasty, it is recognized as the first pyramid ever built and a precursor to later step pyramids.
The structure consists of six stacked layers rising to a height of approximately 62 meters (203 feet). It served as a tomb for Pharaoh Djoser and is part of a larger funerary complex that includes temples and courtyards. The pyramid's innovative design laid the groundwork for subsequent pyramid constructions in Egypt. It is among the most amazing step pyramids of the world, attracting visitors eager to explore these step pyramids inside and their historical significance.
2. Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt
| Location | Constructed | Original Height |
|---|---|---|
| Giza, Egypt | c. 2580 BCE | 146.6 meters (481 ft) |
The Great Pyramid of Giza is the largest Egyptian pyramid and a stunning example of ancient engineering. Built around 2580 BCE for Pharaoh Khufu, it originally stood at 146.6 meters (481 feet), making it the tallest man-made structure for over 3,800 years. It is one of the most amazing step pyramids of the world; it showcases the evolution of step pyramids in Egypt.
The Great Pyramid is part of a complex that includes two other pyramids and the Great Sphinx. Its construction used an estimated 2.3 million pieces of stone, displaying the superior engineering talents of ancient Egyptians. The pyramid functioned not just as a burial but also as a tribute to Khufu's might and heavenly position.
Visitors can explore the step pyramids inside, marveling at their intricate design and significance among the major pyramids in the world and step pyramids around the world.
3. Pyramid of Khafre, Egypt
| Location | Constructed | Original Height |
|---|---|---|
| Giza, Egypt | c. 2570 BCE | 136.4 meters (448 ft) |
Adjacent to the Great Pyramid is the Pyramid of Khafre, built for Khufu's son around 2570 BCE. Although slightly shorter than its predecessor at 136.4 meters (448 feet), it appears taller due to its elevated location on a limestone bedrock. The Pyramid of Khafre, also known as the Pyramid of Chephren, is the second-largest pyramid on the Giza Plateau, Egypt.
The pyramid preserves parts of its ancient shell stones at the top, giving it a unique component. Like the Great Pyramid, it comprises a massive funerary temple and is part of the Giza pyramid complex.
It is one of the most amazing step pyramids in the world, it exemplifies the architectural prowess of ancient Egypt and remains a significant part of the major pyramids in the world.
4. Great Pyramid of Cholula, Mexico
| Location | Constructed | Original Height |
|---|---|---|
| Cholula, Mexico | c. 3rd century BCE - 9th century CE | 25 meters (82 ft) |
Known as Tlachihualtepetl, the Great Pyramid of Cholula is one of the largest pyramids in terms of volume in the world. Located in Puebla, Mexico, this massive structure was built over several centuries by pre-Columbian civilizations and reaches a height of approximately 55 meters (180 feet).
Unlike other pyramids that feature smooth sides, Cholula has a stepped design with multiple layers that reflect its long history and multiple phases of construction. The building was dedicated to the god Quetzalcoatl and is still considered one of the world's most beautiful step pyramids.
5. Pyramid of the Sun, Teotihuacan, Mexico
| Location | Constructed | Original Heights |
|---|---|---|
| Teotihuacan, Mexico | c. 100 BCE - 650 CE | Pyramid of the Sun: 66 meters (216 ft), Pyramid of the Moon: 42 meters (138 ft) |
The Pyramid of the Sun is one of two major pyramids located in Teotihuacan, an ancient Mesoamerican city established around 100 CE. This step pyramid measures approximately 75 meters (246 feet) high and covers an area larger than any other pyramid in Mexico. It was built using volcanic stone and adobe bricks and serves as a focal point within Teotihuacan's urban layout. It features impressive step pyramids, including the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon.
Teotihuacan is recognized as one of the most amazing step pyramids of the world intricate designs and has significant historical importance among the major pyramids in the world.
6. Candi Sukuh, Indonesia
| Location | Constructed | Original Height |
|---|---|---|
| Berjo, Central Java, Indonesia | c. 1437 CE | 10 meters (33 ft) |
Candi Sukuh is a unique step pyramid located on Mount Lawu in Central Java, Indonesia. Constructed in the 15th century during the Majapahit kingdom's reign, it features intricate carvings and reliefs that reflect Hindu influences mixed with indigenous beliefs. Unlike traditional pyramids found in Egypt or Mesoamerica, Candi Sukuh has a distinctively angular design reminiscent of Mayan architecture.
7. Tomb of the General (Pyramid of the East), China
| Location | Constructed | Original Height |
|---|---|---|
| Ji'an, Jilin, China | c. 4th century CE | 11 meters (36 ft) |
The Tomb of the General, also known as the Pyramid of the East, is an ancient Korean pyramid located in Ji'an, Jilin province, China. Believed to be the burial site of King Gwanggaeto or his son King Jangsu of the Goguryeo dynasty, it was rediscovered in 1905. The pyramid measures approximately 75 meters on each side and stands about 11 meters tall, constructed from 1,100 dressed stone blocks. This significant structure reflects the power of the Goguryeo elite and is a notable example of step pyramids in East Asia, contributing to the step pyramids around the world.
8. Monte Alban, Mexico
| Location | Constructed | Original Heights |
|---|---|---|
| Monte Albán, Mexico | c. 500 BCE | Approximately 30 meters (98 ft) |
Monte Alban, situated in Oaxaca Valley, is an ancient Zapotec city featuring several step pyramids used for ceremonial purposes. The site includes impressive structures like Platform J and numerous terraces that provide stunning views over the valley below. Monte Alban was inhabited from around 500 BCE until about 750 CE and reflects significant advancements in urban planning among pre-Columbian civilizations.
9. Chichen Itza, Mexico
| Location | Constructed | Original Height |
|---|---|---|
| Chichen Itza, Mexico | c. 8th-12th century CE | 24 meters (79 ft) |
Chichen Itza is one of the most known archeological sites in Mexico, placed on the Yucatan Peninsula. Situated during the 8th and 12th centuries CE, it served as a prominent metropolis and religious center for the Maya civilization. The most recognizable landmark is El Castillo, a 79-foot (24-meter) tall step pyramid with 365 steps reflecting the days of the solar year.
Other remarkable features are the Great Ball Court, the biggest in Mesoamerica, and the Temple of Warriors with its hundreds of carved columns. Chichen Itza was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988 and was recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.
10. Pyramids of Meroë, Sudan
| Location | Constructed | Original Heights |
|---|---|---|
| Meroë, Sudan | c. 270 BCE - 320 CE | 6 to 30 meters (20 to 98 ft) |
The Nubian Pyramids in Meroë, Sudan, are a magnificent collection of almost 200 ancient pyramids erected by the Kushite Kingdom between 270 BCE and 320 CE. These step pyramids exhibit characteristic steep angles and thin bases, deviating from their Egyptian counterparts.
Meroë served as a royal burial ground for over forty kings and queens, exhibiting the rich cultural legacy of the region. Recognized among the most remarkable step pyramids in the globe, these constructions demonstrate the architectural victories of the Kushites and their connection to ancient Egyptian traditions.
11. Pyramid of Cestius, Italy
The Pyramid of Cestius is an ancient Roman pyramid in Rome, Italy, built between 18-12 BCE as a tomb for Gaius Cestius. Although not as grand as the step pyramids of Egypt, it stands as a testament to the influence of Egyptian architecture on the Roman Empire. Standing at 37 meters (121 feet) high with a square base of approximately 30 meters per side, the pyramid is constructed of brick-faced concrete covered in white marble slabs.
| Location | Constructed | Original Height |
|---|---|---|
| Rome, Italy | 18-12 BCE | 37 meters (121 ft) |
The interior features a barrel-vaulted burial chamber decorated with frescoes. In the 3rd century CE, the pyramid was incorporated into the Aurelian Wall, which helped preserve it over the centuries. As one of the few remaining step pyramids around the world outside of Egypt, the Pyramid of Cestius offers a unique glimpse into Roman fascination with Egyptian culture and architecture.
12. Prang at Koh Ker, Cambodia
The Prang at Koh Ker was part of an ancient Khmer capital established during the reign of King Jayavarman IV in the early 10th century CE. This step pyramid features five tiers adorned with intricate carvings depicting Hindu deities and reflects significant religious influences on Khmer architecture.
| Location | Constructed | Original Height |
|---|---|---|
| Koh Ker, Cambodia | c. 928-944 CE | 35 meters (115 feet) |
Koh Ker served as the capital of the Khmer Empire for a brief period before the seat of power returned to Angkor in 944 CE. The Prang and other monuments at Koh Ker showcase the architectural innovations and artistic achievements of this transitional era in Khmer history.
13. Dahshur
| Location | Constructed | Original Height |
|---|---|---|
| Dahshur, Egypt | c. 2613–2589 BCE | Bent Pyramid: 105 meters (345 ft), Red Pyramid: 104 meters (341 ft) |
Dahshur is an ancient Egyptian pyramid complex located approximately 40 kilometers south of Cairo. It features some of the oldest and best-preserved pyramids, including the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both constructed during the reign of Pharaoh Sneferu around 2613 to 2589 BCE.
These pyramids represent a crucial transition in the evolution from step pyramids to smooth-sided designs. As one of the most amazing step pyramids of the world, Dahshur allows visitors to explore step pyramids inside, showcasing their architectural significance among the major pyramids in the world.
14. Great Ziggurat of Ur
| Location | Constructed | Original Height |
|---|---|---|
| Ur, Iraq | c. 2100 BCE | Approximately 30 meters (98 ft) |
The Great Ziggurat of Ur is a remarkable Neo-Sumerian structure located in the ancient city of Ur, near modern Nasiriyah, Iraq. Constructed around 2100 BCE by King Ur-Nammu, it was dedicated to the moon goddess Nanna.
This monumental ziggurat exemplifies the architectural ingenuity of ancient Mesopotamia, featuring a series of terraces that rise to a temple at its summit. As one of the most amazing step pyramids of the world, it showcases the significance of step pyramids around the world and remains a vital part of Sumerian heritage.
15. The Khaba Slice Pyramid
| Location | Constructed | Original Height |
|---|---|---|
| Zawiyet el-Aryan, Egypt | c. 2545 BCE | Approximately 42-45 meters (138-148 ft), now 17 meters (56 ft) |
The Khaba Slice Pyramid, also known as the Layer Pyramid, is an ancient structure located in Zawiyet el-Aryan, Egypt. Believed to have been constructed around 2545 BCE for Pharaoh Khaba, this pyramid features a unique design with layers that lean inward against a central core. Originally intended to reach approximately 42 to 45 meters (138 to 148 feet) in height, it currently stands at about 17 meters (56 feet).
The evolution of pyramid construction in ancient Egypt is recognized among the most amazing step pyramids of the world.
16. Tikal
| Location | Constructed | Original Height |
|---|---|---|
| Tikal, Guatemala | c. 200-900 CE | Temple IV: 70 meters (230 ft) |
Tikal, an ancient Maya city in Guatemala, is known for its spectacular step pyramids. The most known is Temple IV, rising at 70 meters (230 ft) tall and viewed as one of the highest step pyramids in the Maya world. Tikal contains a total of six main pyramids, each having temple buildings on their peaks. These step pyramids were created during the city's zenith between 200 and 900 CE, when it was a major regional power.
17. Chichén Itzá
| Location | Constructed | Original Height |
|---|---|---|
| Chichén Itzá, Mexico | c. 8th-12th century CE | 24 meters (79 ft) |
Chichén Itzá is a prominent archeological site in Mexico, noted for its spectacular step pyramids, mostly the Temple of Kukulkan, also known as El Castillo. Constructed between the 8th and 12th centuries CE, this pyramid rises at around 24 meters (79 feet) tall and includes a total of 365 steps, reflecting the days of the year.
Visitors can explore the step pyramids inside, experiencing the rich cultural heritage of this ancient city, which is recognized among the major pyramids in the world.
18. Saqqara
| Location | Constructed | Original Height |
|---|---|---|
| Saqqara, Egypt | c. 2630 BCE | 62 meters (204 ft) |
Saqqara also spelled Sakkara or Saccara, is an ancient Egyptian cemetery located near Memphis, famous for its monumental step pyramids. The Step Pyramid of Djoser is the most notable, built around 2630 BCE. This pyramid, designed by the architect Imhotep, is considered the world's first large-scale stone structure, rising to approximately 62 meters (204 feet) in height.
19. Sphinx of Memphis
| Location | Constructed | Original Height |
|---|---|---|
| Memphis, Egypt | c. 1700-1400 BCE | 4 meters (13 ft) |
The Sphinx of Memphis, also known as the Alabaster Sphinx, is a remarkable ancient statue located near the ruins of Memphis, Egypt. Carved from alabaster between 1700 and 1400 BCE, it measures approximately 8 meters (26 feet) in length and 4 meters (13 feet) in height. Although smaller than the Great Sphinx of Giza, it remains one of the largest monuments made from Egyptian alabaster.
Faq on: The 19 Most Impressive Step Pyramids Around the World
Who was the Step Pyramid built for?
The Step Pyramid of Djoser was built for King Djoser, who was the second ruler of Egypt's Third Dynasty. Constructed around 2670 BCE, it served as a monumental tomb and is recognized as the first large-scale stone structure in history.
Where is the Step Pyramid located?
The Step Pyramid, also known as the Pyramid of Djoser, is located in Saqqara, Egypt. This ancient structure, designed by the architect Imhotep, was built during the 27th century BCE for Pharaoh Djoser and is considered one of the earliest monumental stone buildings in the world.
How old is the Step Pyramid?
The Step Pyramid of Djoser is approximately 4,700 years old, having been constructed around 2670 BCE during Egypt's Third Dynasty. It is recognized as the world's first monumental stone structure and represents a significant advancement in ancient Egyptian architecture.
Which is the most famous step pyramid?
The most famous step pyramid is the Step Pyramid of Djoser, located in Saqqara, Egypt. Constructed around 2670 BCE, it is recognized as the world's first monumental stone structure and marks a significant advancement in ancient Egyptian architecture.
Which step pyramid is considered the oldest?
The Step Pyramid of Djoser, located in Saqqara, Egypt, is considered the oldest step pyramid in the world. Constructed around 2670 BCE during the Third Dynasty for Pharaoh Djoser, it marks a significant advancement in ancient Egyptian architecture.
What is a Step Pyramid?
A step pyramid is an architectural building distinguished through its terraced design, which consists of multiple stacked platforms or steps forming a characteristic pyramid-like appearance. Ancient societies such as the Egyptians and Maya utilized these buildings mainly for religious and ceremonial reasons.
What are the main differences between step pyramids and true pyramids?
While both step pyramids and true pyramids served similar functions as tombs for pharaohs, they differ significantly in design, construction methods, and architectural sophistication.
Who was the Step Pyramid built for?
The Step Pyramid of Djoser was built for King Djoser, who was the second ruler of Egypt's Third Dynasty. Constructed around 2670 BCE, it served as a monumental tomb and is recognized as the first large-scale stone structure in history.
Conclusion
Step pyramids around the world represent remarkable achievements in architecture and engineering across various cultures throughout history. From Egypt's monumental tombs to Mesoamerica's ceremonial centers and beyond, these structures not only serve as burial sites but also embody spiritual beliefs and societal hierarchies.
These step pyramids' legacy is still relevant today; they are more than just antiquities; they are everlasting emblems of humanity's ongoing yearning for meaning beyond life itself—a goal that transcends time and space.
