The ancient Egyptians built pyramids to serve as tombs for pharaohs and other royalty. They believed the pharaohs would need their possessions in the afterlife. It is estimated that around 20,000-30,000 laborers worked for many years to construct the pyramids. The pyramids contained burial chambers and treasures for the deceased pharaoh. Egyptians may have chosen the pyramid shape because it resembled the Ben Ben stone in early temples and symbolized the pharaoh's connection with the gods. The first pyramid was built at Saqqara as a tomb for Pharaoh Djoser.

1. Ancient Egypt: Pyramids Liezl Jupiter 8-41