The pyramids at Giza are much larger and taller than the one in Sakkara. There are 3 large pyramids here. I learned that the pyramids were made of stone blocks and covered with limestone. So, originally the pyramids' surface was smooth. But after many, many years, the limestone layer eroded... all except for the tip of one of the pyramids. Initially, I had the misconception that the pyramids were located far away in the desert. However, I discovered that they were located "just out of town" in the Giza area :o).
[Pyramid of Khufu]
[Big Building Blocks]
Just next to the Pyramid of Khufu (Cheops), there is a smaller pyramid of the Queen Hetepheres. Again, visitors are allowed to venture into the burial chamber. However, in contrast to the one we went in at Sakkara, this one was hot and humid!
[Going Down]
[Tomb of Queen Hetepheres]
Just a short drive away, my guide took me to see the Sphynx. It wasn't as big as I envisioned it to be :o).
[The Sphynx]
At 10.45am we left the Sphynx and headed back to Cairo. We arrived at the Citadel at 11.30am. It is basically a fort but the main attraction is the beautiful mosque of Mohamed Ali. Visitors can also see a panoramic view of Cairo from the Citadel.
[The Mosque of Mohamed Ali]
I arrived back at the hotel at 1pm, just in time for the Imagine Cup showcase.
Later that evening, we were all transported to the Giza Pyramids for the World Festival or closing/award ceremony. We were a privileged lot as the pyramids are normally closed to visitors after 6pm. The pyramids have a warm glow at sunset. Showtime was at 8pm. Malaysia won 1st (my students :o)) and 3rd places for the Design for Development Award.
[The Pyramids at Sundown]
[Imagine Cup 2009 World Festival at the Pyramids]
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