How Culture has Influenced the Design of Egyptian Pyramids
The ancient pyramids of Egypt enthrall us to this day and give us insight into the culture and beliefs of the ancient Egyptians. While the Egyptians didn't build the first pyramids, they pioneered this form of architecture and their designs were far more elaborate than those of their predecessors. The Egyptian pyramids were not only grand monuments, but also incredibly well-designed structures that exemplified the expert craftsmanship of the ancient Egyptians. We must look to the culture of this great civilization to understand how their beliefs and understandings of the universe shaped their architectural design and allowed them to construct such majestic works of art.Religious InfluencesThe religious beliefs of the ancient Egyptians heavily influenced their designs for the pyramids. One of the major tenets of their religious faith was the afterlife, or Ma’at, and the Pharaohs sought to provide themselves a proper place to rest in the afterlife. The Egyptians believed that the stairs needed to pass into the afterlife were located inside the pyramid, and so the designs of the pyramids were aimed at providing Pharaohs easy access to the afterlife. This is why they were typically situated toward the west, the direction of Ma’at.Additionally, the Egyptians believed that their Pharaoh was literally a god and thus they implemented various symbols into the pyramids that would ensure their Pharaoh’s ascension into the heavens. This is reflected in the symbolism of the shape of the pyramid, with its apex representing an open doorway to the afterlife. Geographical InfluencesThe geography of Egypt had a great influence on the design of the pyramids. Because of the Nile River and its annual flooding, the ancient Egyptians had to design their pyramids so that they could withstand the floodwaters without any damage. The Egyptians were well-versed in their local geography and used their knowledge to build their pyramids in a way that would ensure that their structures would remain standing through any potential flooding.Mathematical InfluencesThe ancient Egyptians also had extensive knowledge of mathematics which they utilized in their pyramid designs. Despite all of the uncertainties that the Pharaohs must have had to face while constructing the pyramids, their mathematical understanding allowed them to utilize sophisticated formulas and geometric principles, such as the golden ratio, to ensure that the pyramids were symmetrical and highly optimized. The Influence of the PeopleThe people of Egypt also played a major role in the design of the pyramids. The Egyptians were able to harness the immense strength and power of the people to help construct their grand monuments. The people were often used in great numbers to course the stones used to build the pyramids. Additionally, the ancient Egyptians believed that the construction of the pyramids was an act of divine service, which allowed them to commandeer the necessary resources and labor.Egyptian pyramids are some of the most awe-inspiring monuments in history; colossal reminders of the ingenuity and devotion of the ancient Egyptians. The culture of Egypt had a profound influence on the design of the pyramids, from the religious aspects, to the geographical constraints, the mathematical knowledge, and the strength of the people. It is this combination of cultures and designs that has enabled the pyramids to remain standing for centuries, inspiring generations still.