The Step Pyramid of Djoser: Egypt’s First Pyramid Explained

Introduction to The Step Pyramids of Djoser

The Pyramid of Djoser, also called the Step Pyramid, is a pyramid located at Saqqara, Egypt. It is the tomb of Djoser, the third Dynasty Pharaoh. It was designed and constructed by his chancellor, Imhotep. It is believed that it was constructed between 2667 and 2648 BC. It is considered the first pyramid located in Egypt and the first to have six mastabas, each smaller than the next. 

The Pyramid of Djoser stands at 62 metres in height (203 ft), with a base measuring 109 metres by 125 metres, and its exterior is of white polished limestone. It is believed that it was the earliest large building made of ashlars, although the nearby Gisr el-Mudir pyramid seems to be older than the Pyramid of Djoser. The oldest unfinished stone structure dates back to 3000 BC and is situated at Caral, Peru. 

History of The Step Pyramid of Djoser

Djoser was the first or second pharaoh of the Third Dynasty during the Old Kingdom of Egypt (c. 2686-2125 BC). According to historians, he ruled Egypt for 19 years or 36 years. He ruled long enough to complete his plans to construct a pyramid. 

Djoser is well-known for his tomb, which became the most famous structure at Saqqara. In this tomb, he was referred to as Netjerykhet, a name given to him during the New Kingdom. Unlike any other structure that had come into existence before it, the Pyramid of Djoser set various important precedents, most importantly perhaps being the first monumental stone building. The social effect of such an elaborate and large stone structure was quite surprising. The process of constructing such a stone structure would have been even more labor-intensive than earlier structures, showcasing a new level of state control over resources, both material and human. 

Despite this, the pharaohs of the Old Kingdom were buried in the north. Furthermore, although the Step Pyramid is different from later structures, many aspects of the Step Pyramid’s design were adopted by the pyramids of the Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Dynasties, including the three pyramids of Giza. Lastly, Imhotep served as the architect of the Pyramid of Djoser, responsible for its construction and design. 

Where is the Step Pyramid Located?

The Step Pyramid of Djoser is situated in the Saqqara necropolis in Egypt. It is located close to the ancient capital of Memphis, and is considered the centrepiece of an ancient, vast, and historic funerary complex. 

Who was Buried Inside the Step Pyramid?

The Step Pyramid was built as the tomb of Djoser, the Third Dynasty Pharaoh. The Step Pyramid demonstrates sacredness in the sense that it is a tomb and a door to another dimension of life. The pharaohs were believed to be divine, as it was believed that they could mingle with the gods. In relation to this, Djoser constructed the Step Pyramid so he could protect his divine status and ensure that his spirit would traverse into other planes of existence. 

What did the Step Pyramid Originally Look Like?

It has a flat roof structure with sloping sides, and its series of expansions evolved into a 60-meter pyramid, with six tiers, one constructed on top of the other. The pyramid was constructed using 11.6 million cubic feet of stone and clay. Beneath the pyramid, the tunnels form a labyrinth about 3.5 miles long. 

• Walls

The Pyramid of Djoser has a 10.5-meter-high wall constructed with tura limestone. The wall consists of 14 doors with only one entrance located in the southeast corner. The remaining doors are known as false doors and were likely to be used by the pharaohs in the afterlife. 

• Interior Structure

The interior of the Step Pyramid is a network of rooms and corridors, attached to the central corridor. These rooms were used as burial chambers for the pharaoh, his family members, and also for storing food and supplies. 

• Structure

The Pyramid of Djoser was more than a tomb; it was a spiritual vessel designed to ensure the pharaoh’s eternal rebirth. While its exact symbolism is debated—ranging from a giant royal crown to a literal stairway for ascending to the North Star—it remains a unique architectural marvel. Excavated and restored by Jean-Philippe Lauer, the 15-hectare complex is significantly larger than the town of Hierakonpolis. It breaks from later Old Kingdom traditions by featuring a north-south orientation, a northern temple placement, and a single protective wall rather than the standard east-west axis and double-wall systems.

Conclusion 

In a nutshell, the Step Pyramid of Djoser stands as a remarkable milestone in ancient Egyptian architecture and history, and travelers can explore incredible sites like this along the Nile with Nile Cruisen—check out our Nile cruise reviews to start planning your unforgettable journey through Egypt.

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