Mountains of the Pharaohs

Viac o knihe

The great pyramids of Giza have captivated humanity for millennia, sparking questions about their construction and purpose since ancient Egyptian civilization's middle period. Recent research has shed light on how and why these monumental structures were built. In this compelling narrative, Zahi Hawass, a prominent archaeologist and guardian of Egypt’s treasures, combines the latest archaeological findings with a fascinating family history. Nearly five thousand years ago, the 4th Dynasty of Egypt’s Old Kingdom presided over a highly advanced civilization, with the royal family regarded as gods. They resided in grand palaces and temples dedicated to them and their deified ancestors. Hawass vividly brings these historical figures to life, narrating a dramatic saga filled with murder, incest, and the rise of one of only four queens to rule Egypt. The pyramids stand as a testament to the dynasty’s immense power and the engineering and architectural prowess that thrived during their reign. Hawass posits that these structures, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu—the last remaining of the Seven Wonders of the World—were crafted by skilled artisans who took immense pride in their work. This account offers an unparalleled glimpse into one of civilization’s most remarkable achievements.