Introduction

NOTE: This article is greatly written by AI. Please see here.

Pyramids, celebrated as architectural marvels, are a widespread phenomenon, found in various parts of the globe, including Egypt, Sudan, America, Greece, and Mesoamerica. These awe-inspiring structures serve multifaceted purposes: from tombs and temples to celestial maps, highlighting the advanced astronomical knowledge and religious beliefs of ancient civilizations^[1][2]. Their presence across continents like Asia, the Americas, and even the cold expanses of Antarctica and Taiwan exemplifies their universal appeal and the shared human inclination towards monumental architecture.

As we embark on a journey to explore pyramids around the world, this article sheds light on the lesser-known pyramids outside Egypt’s borders, from the icy silhouettes in Antarctica to the stepped ziggurats of Asia. Delving into regions as diverse as the Americas, with its rich Mesoamerican pyramid culture, to the ancient structures scattered across Europe and the Far East, we unravel the mysteries of these enigmatic edifices^[1][2]. Our exploration not only acquaints us with the architectural genius of past societies but also connects us with the cultural and celestial significance that these pyramids hold, offering a deeper understanding of our shared human heritage.

Note: The pyramids mentioned in this article by no means comprises a complete listing.

Arctic & Antarctic Pyramids

Despite popular myths and intriguing satellite images, there are no “officially recognized” pyramids in the Arctic or Antarctic regions. According to mainstream media and science, the Arctic bears no evidence of ancient pyramid construction^[3]. Similarly, Antarctica, primarily known for its harsh, icy landscape, also lacks any authentic pyramids. It is an inhospitable continent that has been covered in ice for millennia, making human habitation and construction of such magnitude virtually impossible during ancient times^[3].

But articles such as this seem to refute the above stataments:

The Truth About The Mysterious “Pyramid” Discovered In Antarctica

Speculations about pyramids in these regions often stem from theories, including those suggesting interventions by ancient alien civilizations. However, these theories lack any factual backing^[4]. In 2016, a buzz was created by satellite images purportedly showing a man-made pyramid in Antarctica with a perfectly square base, measuring 2 kilometers on each side. This led to numerous speculations^[5]. Nevertheless, further investigations and expert analyses have clarified that these formations are not man-made but are natural mountain formations, shaped by geological processes like freeze-thaw erosion^[7].

But…

• 7 Antarctica Conspiracy Theories [+ The Truth Behind Them]
• The truth behind mysterious ‘pyramid’ discovered in Antarctica
• Mysterious ‘pyramid’ discovered beneath the ice in Antarctica…
• ANTARCTICA, JOHN KERRY, PYRAMIDS…

Asian & Pacific Pyramids

In general:

• China: China is home to many pyramid-like structures, most notably the mausoleums of emperors and high-ranking officials from various dynasties.
• Indonesia: There are several pyramid-like structures in Indonesia.
• Japan: Japan has several pyramid-like structures, including ancient burial mounds.
• Cambodia: The Prang temple, part of the double sanctuary of Prasat Thom and Prang, located within Koh Ker, a 10th-century temple complex and former capital of the Khmer Empire.
• Thailand: The ancient town of Si Thep in central Thailand is home to temple ruins that showcase the region’s many architectural influences from the Dvaravati, Srivijaya, and Khmer kingdoms.
• Myanmar: There are many temples in the ancient Burmese city of Bagan that resemble pyramids, including the well-known Shwesandaw and Bulethi temples.
• China: Some theories suggest that the pyramids in China are being covered up by the Chinese government³. Other theories propose that aliens or advanced ancient civilizations built the pyramids.

Southeast Asian Pyramids

• Bagan’s Architectural Marvels: The ancient city of Bagan is home to several temples that boast pyramid-like structures, including Shwesandaw, Bulethi, and Dhammayangyi^[11].
• Dhammayangyi’s Grandeur: Standing at 55 meters tall, Dhammayangyi has a base measuring approximately 78 meters on each side, built during the reign of Narathu from 1118-1171^[11].
• Cambodian Pyramids: Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Preah Khan in Siem Reap province are considered pyramids due to their iconic architectural styles^[11].
• Prang Temple: Located in Koh Ker, this seven-tiered temple mirrors the design of Mesoamerican pyramids and was once the capital of the Khmer Empire^[11].

Pyramids in Thailand and Indonesia

• Si Thep’s Historical Layers: In central Thailand, the ancient town of Si Thep showcases temple ruins that reflect the influences of Dvaravati, Srivijaya, and Khmer cultures^[11].
• Khao Klang Nok: An 8th-century Buddhist temple made of red laterite bricks, Khao Klang Nok is a pyramid-like structure noted for its historical and architectural significance^[11].
• Central Java’s Hindu Temples: Candi Sukuh and Candi Kethek in Central Java are remarkable for their pyramid structures and rich iconography, including erotic bas-reliefs and statues^[11].

Unique Structures Across Asia

• Candi Sukuh and Candi Kethek: These 15th-century temples feature pyramid-like designs with detailed terraces and religious statues, drawing parallels with Mesoamerican pyramid designs^[11].
• Mystery of the Missing Capstone: The Prang Temple in Koh Ker is noted for its missing capstone, which might have originally supported a large lingam, signifying deep religious significance^[11].

Insights into Pyramid-Like Structures

• Cultural and Spiritual Significance: These structures across Southeast Asia were not only architectural feats but also served as spiritual gateways, connecting the earthly realm with the divine^[11].

Tourist Attractions with Historical Significance

Several pyramids in China, such as the Han Yang Ling Mausoleum from the Western Han dynasty, not only serve as historical landmarks but also function as modern-day tourist attractions. These sites often feature attached museums that offer visitors insights into the rich history and culture of ancient China^[26].

American Continent & Mesoamerican Pyramids

American Continent:

• Formally Known Pyramids:
  • North America: The continent of North America is home to several noteworthy pyramids, many of which are ceremonial mounds with religious significance¹. The tallest pyramid structure in North America is Monk’s Mound, located at the Cahokia site near Collinsville, Illinois.
  • Canada: There are pyramid-like structures in Canada, such as the Scowlitz Mounds on British Columbia’s Harrison Hill.
  • United States: There are several pyramid-like structures in the United States.
  • Latin America: The best known Latin American pyramids include the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon at Teotihuacán in central Mexico, the Castillo at Chichén Itzá in the Yucatan, the Great Pyramid in the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan, the Pyramid at Cholula and the Inca’s great temple at Cuzco in Peru.
• Theories: There are several theories about pyramids in the American Continent. Some theories suggest that the pyramids in North America were built by ancient aliens or advanced civilizations³⁴.

Mesoamerican Region:

• Formally Known Pyramids:
  • Aztec Pyramids: The Aztecs, who dominated central Mexico in the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries, built several pyramids, including the Santa Cecilia Acatitlan pyramid and the Templo Mayor in Tenochtitlan.
  • Maya Pyramids: The Maya, a people of southern Mexico and northern Central America, built several pyramidal-plaza ceremonial architectures, including the ones at Chichen Itza, Tulum, Cobá, and Palenque.
  • Olmec Pyramids: The Olmecs, an ancient group of indigenous peoples that occupied territory in Mesoamerica, are known for their pyramid-like structures⁵.
• There are several theories about pyramids in the Mesoamerican region. Some theories suggest that the pyramids were built by ancient aliens or advanced civilizations.

The American continent, particularly Mesoamerica, is rich in pyramid structures, which surpass those found in any other region worldwide. These architectural marvels began around 1000 B.C. with the Olmecs, recognized as the earliest pyramid builders in the area. Notably, the Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan, Mexico, stands as the most famous pyramid in Latin America and is one of the largest in Mesoamerica.

Key Pyramids in Mesoamerica and Beyond

• The Great Pyramid of Cholula: Located in Puebla, Mexico, this pyramid holds the record as the largest pyramid in the world by volume, encompassing 4.45 million cubic meters^[1].
• Monks’ Mound: This structure is the largest and best-preserved mound among hundreds in the United States, showcasing the extensive reach of pyramid-style structures beyond Mesoamerica^[13].
• Pyramid of the Sun: Dominating the landscape of Teotihuacán, Mexico, this pyramid is a central piece in understanding the religious and cultural practices of the people who built it^{[19][18][17][16][15][14]}.

Construction and Cultural Significance

American pyramids were predominantly constructed from earth and faced with stone, designed in a stepped shape to serve various purposes including religious rituals, burials, and as sanctified homes for deities^{[19][18][17][16][15][14]}. The Aztecs, for instance, built their pyramids with flat tops and stairs ascending the faces, which were often adorned with narratives about their gods and rituals^{[18][17][16][15][14]}. This construction style is evident in the Great Pyramid in Tenochtitlan, destroyed during the Spanish conquest^{[19][18][17][16][15][14]}.

Diverse Cultural Contributions

The influence of different civilizations on pyramid construction is notable across the Americas:

• Inca and Moche: In Peru, the Moche utilized adobe for their pyramids^{[18][17][16][15][14]}, while the Inca ruler Pachacuti Yupanqui initiated the construction of the temple-pyramid Sascahuamán in Cuzco^{[18][17][16][15][14]}.
• Purépechans and Toltecs: In Michoacán, the Purépechans built T-shaped step pyramids known asyácatas^{[18][17][16][15][14]}, whereas the Toltecs constructed the five-tier pyramid of Quetzalcoatl in Tula^{[18][17][16][15][14]}.
• Classic Veracruz and Zapotecs: The best-known pyramid of the Classic Veracruz culture is the Pyramid of Niches in El Tajín^{[18][17][16][15][14]}, and the Zapotecs erected significant sites like Monte Albán and Mitla in the Valley of Oaxaca^{[18][17][16][15][14]}.

These structures not only reflect the architectural ingenuity of their creators but also their deep spiritual and communal values, which have been a subject of fascination and study in modern archaeological scholarly thinking, especially revising views on the Olmecs’ influence^[18].

European Pyramids

The Pyramid of Cestius and Bosnian Pyramids: A European Enigma

• Roman Legacy in Italy: The Pyramid of Cestius in Rome, constructed around 12 B.C., serves as the tomb of the Roman magistrate Gaius Cestius Epulo. This pyramid stands as a testament to the Roman embrace of Egyptian architectural styles during that era^[2].
• Controversial Claims in Bosnia: Semir Osmanagić, a Bosnian-American businessman, stirred significant interest and controversy by asserting that the hills in Visoko, Bosnia and Herzegovina, are ancient man-made pyramids, which he named the ‘Pyramid of the Sun’ and the ‘Pyramid of the Moon’^[20]. Osmanagić suggests these structures were built by the Illyrians between 12,000 to 34,000 years ago, predating and purportedly exceeding the size of the Great Pyramid of Giza^[20].
• Geometric Precision: The arrangement of the peaks of these so-called pyramids forms a perfect equilateral triangle, adding to the mystery and complex theories surrounding their origins^[20].
• Archaeological and Geological Debates: Despite Osmanagić’s claims, supported by findings of symmetrical platforms and manmade sandstone plates at the sites, the scientific consensus argues that these are natural formations known as flatirons. The debate continues as the Bosnian government and media have shown support for the pyramid theory, while many scientists remain skeptical^[20][21][24].
• Tourism and Economic Impact: The theory of Bosnian pyramids has turned Visoko into a tourist destination, attracting over 400,000 visitors. This influx has provided economic relief to a region recovering from the devastations of war^[22][23].
• Recent Discoveries and Ongoing Research: In 2020, discoveries at the site included what is claimed to be the oldest structure in Europe in the underground ‘Three Tunnels,’ and findings that suggest the top of the Bosnian Pyramid of the Sun may have functioned as an astronomical observatory^[25]. Despite these intriguing findings, the European Association of Archaeologists has condemned the promotion of the site as a pyramid, labeling it a ‘cruel hoax’ and urging an end to the funding of such excavations^[23][24][25].

Far East & Middle East Pyramids

Ziggurat of Ur: A Testament to Sumerian Architecture

The Ziggurat of Ur, located in present-day Iraq, is a monumental structure built for King Ur-Nammu during the mid-21st century B.C. This architectural marvel stands as a testament to the ingenuity of the Sumerian civilization and remains a significant historical site today^[2].

Sudan: Approximately 80 pyramids were built within the Kingdom of Kush, now located in the modern country of Sudan.

Conclusion

Through this comprehensive exploration of pyramids across the globe, from the iconic structures of Egypt to the lesser-known pyramids in the Arctic, Asia, America, Europe, and the Middle East, we’ve journeyed across time and cultures to uncover the multifaceted purposes these monuments served. These architectural wonders not only showcase the ingenuity and spiritual ambition of ancient civilizations but also connect us with a universal human legacy of reaching towards the heavens. The significance of these structures extends beyond their physical presence, encapsulating the advanced astronomical knowledge, architectural prowess, and the deeply ingrained religious beliefs of societies past.

The myriad of pyramids, whether serving as tombs, temples, or celestial maps, highlights a shared inclination towards monumental architecture that transcends geographic and cultural boundaries. This exploration not only deepens our understanding of human history and architectural evolution but also underscores the importance of preserving these marvels for future generations. As we continue to uncover the mysteries and revelations these ancient edifices hold, they remain enduring symbols of humanity’s quest for knowledge, spirituality, and connection with the cosmos, urging us to further explore and appreciate the rich tapestry of our world’s cultural heritage.

FAQs

1. Where can you find pyramids across the globe?

Pyramids are located in various countries including Egypt, Sudan, Mexico, Italy, Iraq, Peru, and more. Notably, the largest pyramid in the world is the Great Pyramid of Cholula, also known as Tlachihualtepetl, located in the New World.

2. What is the total number of pyramids worldwide?

Globally, there are thousands of pyramids. Specifically, Egypt houses over 100 pyramids, Sudan has more than 200, and numerous others are spread across the Middle East and China. The Americas boast the highest number of pyramids compared to other regions.

3. How many Egyptian pyramids are there and where are they located?

Egypt is home to at least 118 identified pyramids. These ancient masonry structures are primarily found in Egypt. Additionally, about 80 pyramids were constructed in what is now modern-day Sudan, within the ancient Kingdom of Kush.

4. Do all pyramids around the world share a common alignment?

Pyramids and pyramid-like structures globally do not share a uniform alignment. However, many of these structures tend to be oriented with the cardinal directions—north, south, east, and west.

References

[1] –https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/dddf8de802d44eb5b95d3c258a79817b
[2] –https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/ancient-pyramids-around-the-world-10343335/
[3] –https://www.history.com/topics/ancient-egypt/the-egyptian-pyramids
[4] –https://www.quora.com/Why-are-there-pyramids-around-the-world
[5] –https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cIZ7625Ts6A
[6] –https://www.cbsnews.com/news/antarctica-pyramid-not-quite-geologists-say/
[7] –https://www.antarcticacruises.com/guide/antarctica-pyramids
[8] –https://www.indy100.com/science-tech/pyramid-discovered-antarctica-google-earth-2667611422
[9] –https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/pyramid-like-mountain-discovered-in-antarctica-revealed-to-be-a-natural-formation/articleshow/102195402.cms
[10] –https://www.thebrighterside.news/post/mysterious-pyramid-found-peaking-from-below-the-ice-in-antarctica
[11] –https://www.airasia.com/play/assets/blt91cbb54d0bc76fcd/6-pyramids-in-southeast-asia-every-history-buff-should-visit
[12] –https://thebrainchamber.com/pyramids-around-the-world/
[13] –https://www.britannica.com/summary/pyramid-architecture
[14] –https://www.scasd.org/cms/lib/PA01000006/Centricity/Domain/1391/Pyramids%20In%20Latin%20America.pdf
[15] –https://www.quora.com/Are-there-any-Mesoamerican-pyramids-in-the-United-States-that-are-still-standing
[16] –https://study.com/academy/lesson/pyramids-mesoamerica-history-civilizations-architecture.html
[17] –https://historycooperative.org/pyramids-in-america/
[18] –https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mesoamerican_pyramids
[19] –https://www.history.com/topics/ancient-americas/pyramids-in-latin-america
[20] –https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/the-mystery-of-bosnias-ancient-pyramids-148990462/
[21] –https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna10335950
[22] –https://tourcroatia.co.uk/are-they-lying-to-you-about-the-bosnian-pyramids/
[23] –https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bosnian_pyramid_claims
[24] –https://emerging-europe.com/after-hours/are-there-ancient-pyramids-in-bosnia/
[25] –https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WFCzAW2nQbQ
[26] –https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_pyramids