Among the most iconic and enduring representations of ancient Egyptian civilization is the Pyramid of Djoser, a towering tribute to the ingenuity and ambition of the early pharaohs. Standing several decades ahead of the more famous pyramids of Giza. This magnificent structure was the first significant stone structure created in ancient Egypt, dating back more than 4,600 years during the 3rd Dynasty. Nestled in the old burial cemetery of Saqqara follows the avant-garde architectural design, which also marked a dramatic break from previous burial customs. As you explore the Pyramid of Djoser, you’ll be transported back in time, marvelling at the sheer ingenuity.
About The Pyramid Of Djoser
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The Pyramid of Djoser Egypt is located in the Saqqara necropolis of Egypt; the Step Pyramid stands as a testament to ancient innovation. Erected in the 27th century BC, this edifice was the inaugural pyramid, marking a bold new direction in architectural design. Pharaoh Djoser’s final resting place, crafted by the visionary Imhotep, rises in six distinct tiers, a pioneering stone structure that predates others.
Originally soaring to 62.5 metres, the step Pyramid of Djoser lies at the heart of an expansive funerary complex, encircled by a vast courtyard and an array of ritualistic edifices. Its unique stepped silhouette broke ground as a monumental stone construction and symbolised the Pharaoh’s authority and eternal aspirations. Rejuvenated after fourteen years of meticulous restoration, the Pyramid of Djoser Eqypt opened its gates in March 2020, inviting the world to gaze upon its age-old splendour.
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About The Pyramid Of Djoser
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The Step Pyramid of Djoser is an enduring symbol of the early Egyptian mastery of monumental architecture. Some of the facts about the Pyramid of Djoser are:
- Pioneering Heights: It soared as the tallest artificial structure for four decades, reaching 62.5 metres at its zenith.
- Architectural First: This edifice, dating back to the 27th century B.C., is heralded as the earliest colossal structure fashioned from stone.
- Strategic Placement: Nestled in the Saqqara Necropolis, it lies northwest of the once-thriving Memphis.
- Necropolis Heart: The pyramid is the focal point of a sprawling complex in Saqqara, the primary burial site for millennia.
- Imposing Dimensions: The Step Pyramid stands at a mighty 62.5 metres (205 feet) tall, a truly impressive feat for its time. The square base stretches out over a massive area, each measuring 140 metres (459 feet) in length.
Architecture & Design
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The Pyramid complex of Djoser includes the great trench, enclosure wall, collonaded entrance, “T” temple, and the step pyramid with its substructure. This complex has Egyptian architecture, the first royal tomb in pyramidal form and the first large-scale use of limestone, replacing mudbrick. Djoser’s pyramid complex is surrounded by a trench, the largest in the Memphis necropolis, 750 m long and 40 m wide. The trench resembles the hieroglyph h, representing a house floor plan, and may have hosted the spirits of the king’s court members.
This complex has fourteen larger bastions hosted with false double doors, with a real entrance in the southeast corner. The wall’s design recalls First Dynasty tombs and the palace façade, possibly modelled after the “White Walls” of Memphis. The fifteen doors, mostly false, were for the king’s use in the afterlife, functioning as portals for the king’s ka. The entrance colonnade, leading from the enclosure wall to the south court, consists of two passages. The first is a narrow corridor with ceiling blocks carved into tree trunk shapes. The second, wider corridor features 40 limestone columns resembling bundled reeds, supporting a ceiling carved into palm tree trunks. The south court lies between the south tomb and the pyramid. The limestone walls of the underground passages are inlaid with blue faience tile to mimic reed matting.
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Entrance Fees And Timings
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The Step Pyramid of King Djoser, one of Egypt’s most fascinating historical landmarks in the Saqqara necropolis, is open to visitors daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. To explore this remarkable site, the entrance fee is 60 Egyptian pounds for regular tickets and 30 Egyptian pounds for student tickets.
The ideal window to visit the Pyramid of Djoser falls between spring and autumn, specifically April, May, September, and October. During these months, Egypt enjoys pleasant weather. The scorching summer heat that blankets the region from June to August subsides, making exploring the vast outdoor complex much more comfortable.
How To Reach The Pyramid of Djoser?
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The Pyramid of Djoser is very easy to reach. You can reach the Pyramid in several ways. The ways are:
By Plane
Cairo International Airport (CAI) is the closest airport to Saqqara. From there, you can take a taxi, use a ride-sharing service like Uber, or pre-arrange a car service to reach Saqqara, which is about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive away, depending on traffic conditions.
By Train
You can also reach Saqqara from Cairo using the Metro. Take Line 1 to the Ma’adi station, then take a taxi or ride-sharing service to the Pyramid of Djoser. This option will take about an hour.
By Car
If you are driving from Cairo, take the Al-Nasr Road south until you see the exit for Saqqara. Along the way, there are signs for the pyramids.
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The Pyramid of Djoser, is a testament to human ingenuity and ambition. Often referred to as the marvel of ancient Egyptian architecture. As one of the earliest examples of large-scale stone architecture, it continues to whisper tales of a bygone era. Are you inspired to unravel the mysteries of ancient Egypt? Book your trip to Egypt today and stand in awe before the Pyramid of Djoser. Make travel plans to Egypt right away to fully experience the rich history and culture of the country of the pharaohs!
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Cover Image Source: Charles J. Sharp for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Pyramid of Djoser
Who built the step Pyramid of Djoser?
The Step Pyramid of Djoser was built by Imhotep, Djoser's vizier, who is considered the world’s first named architect.
How old is the Pyramid of Djoser?
The Pyramid of Djoser was constructed around 2670–2650 BC during the 3rd dynasty, making it over 4,700 years old.
How tall is the Pyramid of Djoser?
The Pyramid of Djoser originally stood 62.5 meters (205 feet) tall.
Who was buried in the Pyramid of Djoser?
The Pyramid of Djoser was built for the burial of Pharaoh Djoser.
What is the Pyramid of Djoser known for?
The Pyramid of Djoser is known as the first pyramid to be built and the earliest colossal stone building in Egypt. It’s a significant historical turning point in ancient Egyptian funerary monuments, revolutionising stone architecture and royal burials.
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