Importance of the Nile River for Egypt’s pyramids

Insight

The Egyptian pyramids have lasted because the critical, central parts are made of granite. And when it came time to build the closest source of granite was nearly one thousand kilometers away. But thanks to the Nile moving those hard, heavy rocks was possible. CCTV’s Yasser Hakim has Insight.


The river that never sleeps

The Nile has brought prosperity to Egypt, leading to the growth of mega cities like Cairo. But this rapid expansion has come with its challenges and a gradual build up of stress, as people try to cope with the demands of modern living. The waters of the Nile once again offer the needed relief. CCTV’s Famida Miller filed this report from Egypt.


Peninah Karibe on the Nile’s importance

Follow Peninah Karibe on Twitter @pkaribecctv

It’s a matter of debate whether the Nile was more important in the past for cities like Cairo which were first built. Or now as they thrive. CCTV America asked correspondent Peninah Karibe to share a little Insight on the significance of the Nile River.

While the Egyptian pyramids are primarily made out of sandstone, the center required granite, a harder stone, to be used. The granite was 1,000 kilometers south, so Egyptians sent the stone to the build sites using the Nile. We asked CCTV’s Peninah Karibe One More Question about what it’s like to see those pyramids, now in her third visit to the area.