Pyramids

Fully illustrated guide to pyramids around the world built by ancient civilizations, exploring how and why they were built

Illustrated with 100 artworks and photographs, Pyramids covers key sites from different world civilizations: Ancient Egypt, the Kushite Kingdom of Sudan, the Aztecs and Maya of Mexico, and the Central American Mesoamerican pyramids.

Pyramids is a unique compilation that brings together all the main aspects and examples of pyramids and other sacred stone structures and the stories of their creators, along with the mythology and cult status that surrounds these fascinating stairways to heaven. Humans have been building pyramids, as burials for kings and as religious monuments, for more than 7000 years, from the Nile Delta through the deserts of Sudan to the jungles of Central America. Pyramids served as monumental tombs for the legendary ancient Egyptian pharaohs, reflecting beliefs in the afterlife. They symbolized power and transcendent devotion, inspiring awe among their builders and providing the focus of an enduring culture. The book is divided into four core chapters, illustrating key sites from different civilizations: Ancient Egypt, the Kushite Kingdom of Sudan, the Aztecs and Maya of Mexico, and the Central American Mesoamerican pyramids. These monuments still stand today and can be visited by the reader. Beautifully produced with 100 illustrations and photographs, Pyramids will fascinate anyone interested in these greatest memorials to human spirituality and ingenuity.