THE STEP PYRAMID

The Step Pyramid of Pharaoh Djoser, was not the first building of that time. Built in 27th century BC in Saqqara, north of the city of Memphis, its main purpose was for the burial of Pharaoh Djoser. The pyramid was 62 meters high and was considered an innovation towards stone architecture.

During the construction of the pyramid, the stone was carved to resemble wood, reeds or other softer materials. Thanks to this stone technique, the whole construction was more than the previous mud brick constructions. Initially the pyramid was a traditional flat roofed mastaba (Ancient Egyptian tomb). By the end of the 19 year reign of Pharaoh Djoser, six more layers were added. Additionally, the pyramid was surrounded by a ten meter wall behind which there were temples, chapels and courtyards covering the size of a large town.