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The difference between the pyramids of Mesoamerica and the pyramids of Egypt
by Anja Emerson 
Created on: February 19, 2011 Last Updated: February 20, 2011
The pyramids have been an endless source of fascination for mankind over the millennia. They provide valuable insight into the society, lives and beliefs of ancient civilizations. The higher purposes for which they were built and the outstanding accuracy of their architecture will never fail to instill a sense of wonder and admiration in the minds of amateurs and connoisseurs alike.
Geographically separated by the ocean, designed and built with different functions in mind, the pyramids of Mesoamerica and the pyramids of Egypt don’t have much in common beyond their overall resemblance in shape. Despite common misconceptions, they are unrelated due to the significant distance in space and time between them.
The Egyptians built pyramids during the Old Kingdom period, starting shortly after 2700 BC and ending around 2100 BC. By contrast Mesoamerican civilizations built their pyramids over two millennia later, roughly between 100 BC and 300 AD. Therefore, any influence between the two from a common source (such as Atlantis) is very unlikely.
The most readily noticeable difference between the two types of pyramids is their appearance. The pyramids of Egypt are outstandingly large and tall, withsmooth, straight surfaces that were meticulously polished and surfaced by white limestone blocks (this outer layer collapsed in time, exposing the core structure). However, Mesoamerican pyramids are far less massive and have a structure with tiered steps and a flat platform on top. They are also adorned with sculptures and engravings on the outside.
The pyramids of Egypt were intended as tombs for pharaohs or queens with no access allowed to the public. These large structures rising towards the sky were meant to protect the pharaoh and guide him towards the afterlife. The mazes inside contained the pharaoh’s most prized possessions, as well as other items considered useful for the passage to eternity. On the other hand, Mesoamerican pyramids had an entirely different purpose: their function was similar to that of a temple. On top of the monuments, ancient priests performed rituals of worship and sacrifice in front of a large audience.
The Egyptians constructed their pyramids from quarried stone that relied upon a very durable inner core. Their intention was to make the structures defy the passage of time and last forever, as they needed to protect the pharaoh for all eternity. By contrast, Mesoamerican civilizations regarded the pyramids they built as mere temples and used less durable materials, supported on a much weaker central core. They also had the habit of rebuilding new pyramids on top of older ones as large periods of time elapsed, because they believed in cyclical time.
Despite their numerous differences, the pyramids of Mesoamerica and the pyramids of Egypt capture the spirituality of different ancient civilizations and offer a magnificent, withstanding testimony of their views on man’s place in the world and the Universe.
