15 Largest Pyramids In The World

Used as temples or tombs, pyramids are some of the largest ancient structures in the world. They feature incredible design and construction. More impressively, many of these monumental megaliths were built almost 4,500 years ago. They’re truly feats of human ingenuity and engineering. For many people, Egypt or the Americas is where they think the great pyramid in the world can be found. However, other areas of the world are also home to large pyramids. These include Sudan, Nigeria, Greece, China, and Indonesia. If you’re wondering what is the biggest pyramid in the world, we’ll take you to take a look at some of the largest pyramids on earth ranked by height.

Furthermore, the picture changes if we consider modern-day pyramid-style buildings. Some of today’s great pyramids are bigger than those of yesteryear, thanks to high-tech tools and equipment.

The Great Pyramid of Cholula, Mexico

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Height: 57 meters (177 feet)

When it comes to the question of what is the biggest pyramid in the world, then the Great Pyramid of Cholula is the world’s largest pyramid if measured by volume. With a total volume of 3.3 million cubic meters, the Great Cholula Pyramid is also the largest archaeological site of a pyramid in the New World. This dwarfs that of the Great Pyramid of Giza. An Aztec temple, it’s also called the Quetzalcóatl Pyramid or the Great Pyramid of Tepanapa. It’s located in Cholula de Rivadavia, 101 km (63 mi) from Mexico City, and dated from 300 BC.

Sometime in the 7th or 8th centuries, the Aztecs abandoned it. Buried by soil and grass over the centuries, it appeared like a hill. Actually, it’s a giant construction with seven pyramids with many layers to discover. Because of this, it survived destruction by the Spanish conquistadores in the early 16th century. In fact, in the 1570s, the Spanish built their own church on the “hill.” Today, the pyramid and the church are popular tourist attractions. Visitors can explore the tunnels at the pyramid’s base and see ornate altars.

Pyramid of Djoser, Egypt

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Height: 62.5 meters (205 feet)

The Pyramid of Djoser in Saqqara dates from 2630 BC to 2611 BC and was the largest in Egypt during his time. It’s one of the largest pyramids in the world list and older than those at the Giza pyramid complex. At first, the structure was supposed to be a flat-roofed tomb (mastaba) for the pharaoh Djoser (or Zoser). However, Djoser, the first king of Egypt’s 3rd Dynasty, wanted something more grandiose. To this end, several mastabas were stacked atop one another. The result is the step pyramid we see today. It has six terraces, and at the heart of it, 28 underground, lies the royal burial chamber. It was a significant addition to his many accomplishments.

The pyramid’s design is attributed to the sculptor and priest, Imhotep, the first physician and architect known by name in written history. Among its notable features is the maze of tunnels. According to archaeologists, this was probably done to deter theft. It didn’t work, though, as looters ransacked the pyramid. Today, visitors aren’t allowed to enter due to conservation efforts. However, you can stand outside to admire what was once considered the tallest pyramid in the world.

Pyramid of Meidum, Egypt

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Height: 65 meters (213 feet)

Let’s continue with the other largest pyramids on earth. The Meidum Pyramid, or Maydūm, was built for, and during the reign of Sneferu. He was the first king of Egypt’s 4th dynasty (c. 2575–c. 2465). He was also the father of Khufu, who later built the Great Pyramid of Giza. It’s located on the west bank of the Nile River. According to researchers, Meidum might have been the second pyramid completed after Djoser’s. At first, it was a step pyramid of 7 layers. Later, the steps were filled in and capped with limestone.

Time, however, revealed that the additions weren’t structurally sound. The outer layers collapsed, leaving the square core we see today. In any case, the Meidum Pyramid wasn’t Snefru’s final resting place. Although he built it during his reign, he abandoned it for another royal cemetery at Dahshur. Moreover, it was never fully completed. The walls of the mortuary temple, for instance, weren’t polished. Also, the burial chamber itself had bare walls.

pyramid of the Sun, Mexico

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Height: 65.5 meters (216 feet)

Still on what is the biggest pyramid in the world, The Pyramid of the Sun dominates the ancient Mesoamerican city of Teotihuacan. It’s about 40 km (25 mi) from Mexico City. When the Teotihuacan completed it in the 2nd century, it was the largest pyramid in the world. Or, in the New World, at least. The Aztecs named it when they came to Teotihuacan centuries after its abandonment. There’s little known about the pyramid’s original purpose. However, there are several theories: That it was a temple or some sort of ritual calendar are two of them.

Excavations have revealed some artifacts. These include human figurines and obsidian arrowheads, possibly representing human sacrifices. Another discovery was the Teotihuacan Ocelot, an alabaster sculpture that the British Museum acquired in 1926. Would you like to climb to the top of the pyramid? Then book a private tour of Teotihuacan. Besides the Pyramid of the Sun, you’ll also get to see the Pyramid of the Moon and the Temple of the Feathered Serpent.

Tikal Temple IV, Guatemala

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Height: 70 meters (230 feet)

Temple IV is the highest pyramid in the Mayan site of Tikal. This Mesoamerican pyramid is also called the Two-Headed Serpent Temple. Temple IV is another old Mayan settlement in the rainforest of northern Guatemala. It was one of the tallest and most voluminous structures in the Mayan world. It lies roughly 64 km (40 miles) south of El Mirador. Experts say Temple IV dates back to 741 AD and honors the Tikal dynasty’s 27th king, Yik’in Chan K’awiil.

In fact, some archaeologists believe that his tomb lies hidden under the pyramid. Tikal is a complex of Mayan ruins deep in the rainforests of northern Guatemala. At the summit is a shrine topped by a roof comb. Among the shrine’s notable features are gigantic stone masks and intricate lintels. Climbing the steep stairs to the top might take quite an effort. However, the sweeping views of the rainforest and the other pyramids are worth it.

La Danta pyramid, Guatemala

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Height: 72 meters (236 feet)

When it comes to what is the biggest pyramid in the world, the Pyramid of La Danta is one of the largest. Hidden in the dense northern Guatemala jungle, it’s one of the largest pyramids on earth of the Mayans. Aside from its impressive height, La Danta boasts a volume of almost 3 million cubic meters (99 million cubic feet). It’s even larger than Egypt’s Great Pyramid. Likewise, mind-boggling is the thought that building it took millions of days of labor.

La Danta lies in the ancient Mayan settlement called El Mirador, located in El Petén. El Mirador is a metropolis of the Maya. This is about 68 km (42.2 mi) from the Guatemalan city of Flores. El Mirador prospered from 6 BC to 1 AD. However, it had been abandoned by the end of the 9th century. El Mirador also has two other pyramids: El Tigre and Los Monos. If you’re fit and keen on a hike, you might enjoy the Mirador Quest Trek. This expedition will reward you with stunning views from the top of La Danta.

Memphis Pyramid, USA

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Height: 98 meters (321 feet)

Graceland might be the most iconic landmark in Memphis, Tennessee. But its resident pyramid is quite the eye-catcher too. The Memphis Pyramid is one of the largest pyramids in the world list. It’s in the downtown area, beside the Mississippi River. This modern structure is owned by Bass Pro Shops and is taller than the Statue of Liberty.

It started out in 1991 as a sports and entertainment venue. Boxing matches, basketball games, and concerts were all held here. Later, the city government signed a 55-year lease agreement with Bass Pro Shops. As a result, the Memphis Pyramid became a Bass Pro Shops megastore in 2015. Besides the huge retail store, there are other attractions. These include a shooting range, an archery range, and a laser arcade. The building also boasts the country’s tallest freestanding elevator.

Red Pyramid Of Dahshur, Egypt

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Height: 104 meters (342 feet)

Pharaoh Sneferu is responsible for at least three of the largest pyramids on earth. The Red Pyramid, also called the North Pyramid, is one of them. It’s also the third largest Egyptian pyramid, after Khufu and Khafre at Giza. The founder of Egypt’s 4th Dynasty, Sneferu, blazed a trail in the design and building of pyramids. His Red Pyramid is in the Dahshur necropolis, about 40 km (25 mi) from Cairo, Egypt, where you’ll find our 11 Best Hotels in Cairo. The rosy limestone used to build most of the pyramid’s core is the source of its name.

Archaeologists say the pyramid took around 17 years to complete. Experts likewise believe it was the first successful attempt to build a pyramid with smooth sides. Today, tourists are free to enter and explore the pyramid’s wonders. For instance, the corbelled ceilings of the interior chambers are remarkable examples of fine masonry. Despite the weight of the stones above and the passage of millennia, they show no breaks or cracks.

Bent Pyramid, Egypt

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Height: 105 meters (344 feet)

Next on what is the biggest pyramid in the world is Bent Pyramid. The Bent Pyramid was an experiment for Sneferu, a pharaoh of the Old Kingdom of Egypt. It was his second pyramid after the one in Meidum. The pyramid’s name comes from its top section, which appears bent because of its shallow angle. It’s possible that the original angle was too steep, forcing the builders to compensate to prevent it from collapsing.

This Egyptian pyramid is located at Dahshur and remains one of the largest and tallest pyramids on earth. Some archaeologists believe this side pyramid was intended for Sneferu’s wife, Hetepheres. It opened to the public for the first time since its 1956 excavation. Closed to tourism since 1965, the Bent Pyramid re-opened to visitors in 2019. Tourists can access the side pyramid.

Luxor, Las Vegas, USA

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Height: 107 meters (350 feet)

Unlike other ancient largest pyramids on earth, Luxor Las Vegas is one of the most recognizable and iconic resorts in Las Vegas. The Las Vegas Strip in Paradise, Nevada, is one of the top tourist attractions in the USA. Since 1993, it’s also been the home of Luxor Las Vegas, a 30-story hotel and casino. Visitors will be rewarded with unique pyramid rooms and slanted windows. Owned and operated by MGM Resorts International, it was the Strip’s tallest building when it opened. Today, it’s one of the world’s biggest pyramids.

The Luxor takes its name from the ancient Egyptian city of Thebes. It boasts 4,400 guestrooms, a huge casino, eight restaurants, and four outdoor pools. It also has the world’s largest atrium. Moreover, the hotel features the world’s strongest light beam: the Luxor Sky Beam. And when it comes to shows, Luxor offers plenty. These include concerts and revues headlined by the biggest names in showbiz.

Pyramid Of Khafre, Egypt

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Height: 136.4 meters (448 feet)

The Pyramid of Khafre (or Chephren) dates from 2570 BC and is the second-tallest and second-largest of the 3 Ancient Egyptian Pyramids of Giza. Hence, it can be the answer for what is the biggest pyramid in the world. It houses the tomb of Khafre, a pharaoh of the Fourth Dynasty who ruled c. 2558−2532 BC. He was also the son of Khufu (Cheops), whose pyramid is the largest in Giza. Among all the Giza pyramids, it’s the only one with at least part of the original white limestone casing.

This ancient wonder is located southwest of the older Pyramid of Khufu. Inside, the interior is simpler compared to that of Khufu’s pyramid. However, the mortuary temple is more complex. It once housed over 52 life-size statues of Khafre. Meanwhile, the pyramid’s valley temple boasts granite-sheathed blocks and polished white calcite floors. Archaeologists also believe that this temple held even more statues of Khafre.

The Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt

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Height: 138.8 meters (455.4 feet)

The Great Pyramid of Giza is the pyramid in the world in many people’s minds. Indeed, it was the world’s tallest man-made structure for thousands of years. Also known as the Pyramid of Khufu or Cheops, its original height was 146.5 m (480.6 ft) with four equal sides. It served as a tomb for Khufu (Cheops), a Fourth Dynasty pharaoh. Some believe that his vizier, Hemiunu or Hemon, was the pyramid’s architect.

The pyramid’s construction took 10–20 years, between 2551–2528 BC. It originally had a smooth, white limestone covering that reflected sunlight or moonlight. Inside, the King’s Chamber holds a large granite sarcophagus. The Giza complex also includes mortuary temples, pyramids for Khufu’s wives, and mastaba tombs for the nobility. To further learn about Giza’s wonders, check out this private half-day tour. This monumental tomb was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979. It’s the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and the only pyramid to remain largely intact.

Transamerica Pyramid, San Francisco, USA

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Height: 260 meters (853 feet)

Transamerica can be included in what is the biggest pyramid in the world. The Transamerica Pyramid is a major San Francisco landmark along with the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s also the second tallest building in the San Francisco skyline. Designed by architect William Pereira, it soars above the city’s Financial District. Construction began in 1969 and was completed in 1972.

It opened as Transamerica Corp.’s headquarters. Today, its tenants include banks and law firms. As one of the largest pyramids in the world list, it boasts a unique form with a striking exterior. Its distinctive shape owes as much to function factors as it does to form. Because of its tapered design, it casts a smaller shadow. This means that the streets below get more natural light. And at its apex, a beacon called the “Crown Jewel” twinkles during special occasions.

The Shard, London, UK

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Height: 309.6 meters (1,016 feet)

A creation of Italian architect Renzo Piano, The Shard is a 95-story skyscraper in London. Also referred to as the Shard of Glass, Shard London Bridge, and formerly London Bridge Tower, it’s the tallest building in the UK and the European Union. Rather than the old pyramids, the railway lines beside the site and a ship’s masts inspired the building’s design. Even so, it’s among the world’s largest pyramidal structures.

Thousands of glass panes make up The Shard’s facade. There are 72 habitable floors, 13 of which hold residential apartments. Various tenants take up space in the building. The 5-star Shangri-La Hotel At The Shard, for instance, occupies 19 floors at levels 34–52. World-class drinking and dining are on tap at restaurants and bars like Aqua Shard. Meanwhile, London’s highest viewing deck spans 3 floors at the top. On the 72nd floor, there’s London’s highest public viewing gallery and open-air observation deck.

Ryugyong Hotel, North Korea

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Height: 330 meters (1,080 feet)

We’ve come to the top of our list what is the biggest pyramid in the world. Ryugyong Hotel is the most iconic building in Pyongyang and North Korea’s tallest building. It also holds the World Guinness record for the tallest unoccupied building. Construction started in August 1987, with the opening scheduled for 1989. But, because of many problems, the deadline kept getting extended. Construction stopped in 1992 and the hotel will likely never be opened. For many years, the “Hotel of Doom” lay idle.

Work then restarted in 2008. By 2011, this 105-story hotel had a glass facade. But despite the planned opening in 2013, Ryugoyong Hotel remains closed as of 2020. The original plan was for a mixed-use development. This included a huge hotel and revolving restaurants. Another interesting fact: the structure’s pyramidal shape isn’t all about aesthetics. Rather than steel, reinforced concrete is the hotel’s main building material. Because the upper levels needed to be lighter, they had to taper to a point. Hence the building’s pyramid-like appearance.

Where is the largest pyramid in the world?

You may think the biggest pyramid in the world could be found in Egypt. In fact, the largest pyramid on earth is hidden beneath a hill in the small town of Cholula, in the central Mexican state of Puebla. The Great Pyramid of Cholula’s total volume has been estimated at 3.3 million cubic meters, compared with the Pyramid of Khufu or Cheops in Egypt, with a current volume of 2.4 million cubic meters.

Are there pyramids in the United States?

Aside from the dry and desolate deserts of Egypt, some pyramids can be found in the United States. The Memphis Pyramid, formerly known as the Great American Pyramid, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Memphis, Tennessee. This building is located on the banks of the Mississippi River.

What country has the most pyramids?

Not Egypt, but it’s Sudan that has the greatest number of pyramids in the world. The country has 200 to 255 known pyramids. It’s far more compared to Egypt’s great pyramid, with a total of 138.