Giza is a city located on the west bank of the Nile River, just southwest of Cairo, the capital of Egypt. It is known worldwide for the Giza Necropolis, an ancient burial ground that houses some of the most iconic structures in human history. The most famous attractions in Giza are the Great Pyramids of Giza. These massive structures were built as tombs for the pharaohs during the Old Kingdom of ancient Egypt. The Pyramids of Khufu (Cheops), Khafre, and Menkaure are the largest and most well-preserved pyramids in Giza. Adjacent to the pyramids stands the Great Sphinx of Giza, a monumental statue with the head of a human and the body of a lion. Believed to be a representation of the pharaoh Khafre, the Sphinx is a symbol of strength and wisdom.