The pyramids of the world stand as timeless monuments to human ingenuity and cultural grandeur. From the sandy stretches of Egypt to the lush landscapes of Mexico, these architectural marvels span across different eras and civilizations, each telling a unique story. Whether they were built as tombs, temples or tributes, each pyramid is a testament to the society that constructed it. Here are 10 awe-inspiring creations to play your travels around:

Discover the Great Pyramid of Giza

If you say the word pyramid, the first thing most people think of is the Great Pyramid of Giza, the oldest and largest of the three pyramids in the Giza pyramid complex in Egypt. This marvel of ancient engineering was constructed over a 20-year period concluding around 2560 BCE. It originally stood at 146.6 metres, although now it’s slightly shorter due to the loss of the outer casing stones. It’s believed to have been built as a tomb for the Pharaoh Khufu and continues to stand as a symbol of Egypt’s rich history.

Step into the world of the Maya at Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza, located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, is one of the most visited archaeological sites in that country. The Kukulkan Pyramid, also known as El Castillo, dominates the ancient city and serves as a testament to the Maya’s astronomical and architectural prowess. Each of the pyramid’s four sides has 91 steps which, combined with the top platform, add up to 365, the number of days in a solar year. It’s an easy day trip from Cancun and is worth skipping a beach day to visit.

Uncover the secrets of the Moche at the pyramid of the Sun

The Pyramid of the Sun, nestled in the Moche Valley of northern Peru, is the largest adobe structure in the Americas. Built by the Moche civilization around 600 AD, it stands at a staggering height of 41 metres. The pyramid was likely used for ceremonial purposes and has yielded numerous artefacts that provide insight into the Moche culture.

Experience modern grandeur at the Louvre Pyramid

The Louvre Pyramid in Paris, France, is a modern twist on ancient pyramid design. Inaugurated in 1989, it serves as the main entrance to the Louvre Museum and has become an iconic part of the Parisian landscape. Designed by architect I.M. Pei, the glass and metal pyramid harmoniously blends with the classical architecture of the museum, symbolizing the link between the past and the present.

Journey to the heart of Nubia at the pyramids of Meroe

The Pyramids of Meroe, part of the ancient city of Meroë in Sudan, are often overlooked in favour of their Egyptian counterparts. However, these Nubian pyramids, with their steep angles and smaller bases, offer a different perspective on pyramid construction. Built between 2,700 to 2,300 years ago, they served as tombs for the kings and queens of the Kushite Kingdom.

Marvel at Rome’s pyramid of Cestius

The Pyramid of Cestius, an ancient pyramid in Rome, Italy, was built as a tomb for Gaius Cestius, a magistrate and member of one of the four great religious corporations in Rome. Erected in 12 BCE, this well-preserved monument is constructed of brick-faced concrete covered with white Carrara marble and stands at 36.4 metres high.

Ascend the steps of the Borobudur Temple

Borobudur, located in Central Java, Indonesia, is the world’s largest Buddhist temple and is reminiscent of a step pyramid. Constructed in the 9th century, it consists of nine stacked platforms, topped by a central dome. The temple is decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues, representing the path to enlightenment.

Explore the Mayan masterpiece of Tikal

Tikal, an ancient Mayan citadel in the rainforests of northern Guatemala, is home to some of the most fascinating pyramid structures in the world. The Temple of the Great Jaguar and the Temple of the Masks are towering examples of Mayan architecture and have stood for over a millennium. Trivia note for Star Wars fans, Tikal was the setting for Yavin 4 in Episode IV: A New Hope

Behold the greatness of the Great Pyramid of Cholula

The Great Pyramid of Cholula, also known as Tlachihualtepetl, is a huge complex located in Cholula, Puebla, Mexico. It is the largest pyramid known to exist in the world today by volume. Despite its grand size, much of it lies hidden beneath the earth, with a Spanish church, the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, perched atop the pyramid, blending cultures and histories.

Experience the thrill of the Bass Pro Shops Pyramid

The Bass Pro Shops Pyramid, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is not your typical pyramid. It’s an immersive retail and entertainment experience that stands out with its unique wilderness theme. This colossal structure, formerly known as the Memphis Pyramid, has been transformed into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Inside, you’ll find a vast assortment of fishing, hunting and outdoor gear, alongside attractions like a cypress swamp with live alligators, a 13-lane ocean-themed bowling alley, and an awe-inspiring observation deck at the top of the 32-storey steel pyramid.