>From Mastabas to Pyramids Prior to the construction of the step pyramids, rulers were buried in Mastaba's. The mastaba is a non-pyramidal shaped structure, which closely resembles burial mounds. These tombs surround the pyramids of the Old Kingdom. Families of the monarch, nobility's, and courtiers were all buried in these low rectangular brick or stone structures. These structures evolved from the simpler pile of stones made only to protect the body. Shafts were dug leading …showed first 75 words of 947 total…

…showed last 75 words of 947 total…and comfortable with their new surroundings. The mastabas were designed to ensure the well-being of the deceased for eternity so everything had to be set up perfectly. Although, these amazing structures failed to provide protection for the Egyptian kings who built them, the pyramids have served to keep the names and stories of those kings alive to this day. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ **Bibliography** "Arts and Culture an Introduction to the Humanities" Volume 1 Janetta Rebold Benton Robert DiYanni