Worldrenowned archaeologist Zahi Hawass weaves a spellbinding narrative about how the pyramids were built and why new in paperbackNearly five thousand years ago the fourth dynasty of Egypts Old Kingdom reigned over a highly advanced civilization. Believed to be gods the royal family lived amid colossal palaces and temples built to honor them and their deified ancestors. In Mountains of the Pharaohs Zahi Hawass brings these extraordinary historical figures to life detailing a soap operalike saga complete with murder incest and the triumphant ascension to the throne of one of only four queens ever to rule Egypt. It was during this dynasty that the magnificent pyramids of Giza were built. These monuments attest not only to the dynastys supreme power but also to the engineering expertise and architectural sophistication that flourished under its rule. Hawass tells the complete story of the pyramids weaving archaeological data with a history of Egypts powerful pharaohs and argues that the pyramidsincluding the Great Pyramid of Khufu the only one of the Seven Wonders of the World still standingwere built by skilled craftsmen who took great pride in their work. Illustrated with blackandwhite photographs and drawings Mountains of the Pharaohs is a compelling account of one of civilizations greatest achievements.