One of the biggest attractions in Egypt is the famous pyramid of Djoser. This ancient structure was built by Imhotep in 2650 BC as the tomb of the Egyptian Pharaoh Djoser. Initially, the architect planned to build an ordinary one-level tomb, but during the construction it was decided to create a stepped structure, so that the soul of the pharaoh who rested here could ascend to heaven on these steps. The pyramid of Djoser is believed to be the first pyramid in human history.
The pyramid is the centrepiece of the funerary complex at Saqqara, with a total area of about 15 hectares. Access to the interior of the pyramid is through a narrow door located on its eastern side. Originally the stepped pyramid had a height of 60 metres, today the height of the structure is about 58.7 metres. The scale of the pyramid has somewhat changed because of a huge number of remodelling and completion. According to historical data, the complex of Djoser, including the step pyramid, underwent serious reconstruction during the Sais period (26-28 dynasties).
Inside the pyramid is a huge shaft with dimensions 10x12 m with numerous tunnels. Special attention should be paid to the constructive features of the inner part of the construction, which is based on this gigantic shaft. On its eastern side, at a certain distance, the workers penetrated 11 additional vertical shafts connected with each other by tunnels. The planes of the shaft are very well executed, the corners being level and straight. All the other numerous tunnels were driven much later using the most primitive technologies. These are mines with arranged tombs for officials of the 24-28th dynasties.
To date, the famous pyramid of Djoser in Saqqara - one of the main attractions of the city, favoured by tourists.
