Giza Pyramids and Ziggurat of Ur

From the prehistoric era to Roman times, two structures that are most prominent to me are the Egyptian pyramids of Giza and the Ziggurat at Ur. Both these massive works from the ancient world displays the awesome energy and creativity of man. Although created by two separate and very different cultures, these engineering and architectural marvels have important features that can be compared and analyzed.

The Giza pyramids were created during a golden period of Egyptian civilization, around 2570 B.C. The pharaoh Khufu had created a structure of such size and advanced technology that it was unrivaled by its predecessors and not exceeded by even his successors. The pyramid used large stone blocks intricately stacked to form the bulk of the structure and foundation. The geometry used on the angles and inclination of the walls, as well as the ratio of height and perimeter width of the square base are so finely finished that modern builders would find difficultly to reproduce it. Outside, the pyramid was originally finished with smooth limestone and had a cap on its pinnacle made of gold. Seen in the picture to the left, the pyramids are indeed a spectacle to behold.

The Ziggurat at Ur was created around 2100 B.C., during the rule of the Mesopotamian King Ur-nammu. This structure was created with countless baked mud-brick placed on top of a mound of earth, effectively creating an artificial mountain. At its summit, elaborate rituals were enacted in service of the Sumerian gods. The heights of the various platforms were carefully proportioned; the walls curved slightly out to add buoyancy to the heavy structure and possibly to adjust as optical refinements. Seen to the right, the impressive staircases created additional drama to an already imposing temple to the gods.

However, these two distinct structures have several interesting details that are similar. First, the pyramid and the ziggurat are symbolic as a connection between humans and the divine. They are comparable to a sacred mount or a setting for divine revelations. Additionally, both structures are massive and visually inspiring; and quite literally, a ladder to the sky or heavens above. More similarities include their sophisticated architectural and engineering measuring and building techniques. Further, the placement of both structures in respect to their environment; and their alignment to the stars and sun also played a crucial role in their planning and creation.

Conversely, there are also sizeable differences between the pyramid and the ziggurat. Whereas the pyramids are famous for its key use as a grandiose tomb for the Egyptian pharaohs, the ziggurats of Mesopotamia were used exclusively as temples for the Sumerian religion. The materials used for construction was also different because of the availability of resources in the local area. The Pyramids of Giza are mainly composed stone and the Ziggurat of Ur is made of bricks from the mud of the area. What’s more, the ziggurat was a structure for the masses to take part in their religious affairs. Although the pyramid was also established on religious reasons, it was not made for the masses but rather for an individual; the pharaoh who was likened as a living god to the people he ruled.

From these two structures, I have found that prehistoric civilizations had the knowledge and perseverance to complete great architectural projects. Even though there are similarities of the structures themselves, such as detail to technique, proportions and alignments. The undertakings can be initiated for very different reasons. The ziggurats were created for religious factors while the pyramids were more political; to show the esteem and authority of the ruling class. Apart from these facts, the pyramid of Egypt and the ziggurat of Mesopotamia are standing evidence of the capacity of man to do great and ingenious works when the need arises.