Constructed between 2589 BC and 2504 BC, the Egyptian pyramids of Khufu, Khafre

and Menkaure, built in that order, are a testament to ancient planning and engi
neering.
How these pyramids were built is a source of speculation and debate, with a gene
ral consensus that ramps of some form, and a tremendous amount of brute human la
bor, were used. When they were completed the pyramids were encased in white lime
stone, most of which is lost today.
Despite the differences between them (Khufus pyramid is several times the mass of
Menkaures) the southeast tip of each pyramid aligns together almost precisely. E
ach pyramid had a mortuary and valley temple, with a causeway connecting them. T
hey also had smaller pyramids referred to as satellite or queens pyramids.