Which Pyramid Is the Largest in the World?

When you envision grand pyramids, the Great Pyramid of Giza is likely what comes to mind. Yet, this iconic Egyptian pyramid is far from the only remarkable one around the globe.

In this article, we explore the largest pyramid in the world (an extraordinary Aztec achievement) along with four other breathtaking structures.

5 of the Largest Pyramids by Volume

While Egypt is home to some of the world's largest pyramids, the title for the largest pyramid is claimed by a different continent. Here are five of the biggest ancient pyramids by volume, listed in descending order.

5. The Bent Pyramid

Situated in the royal necropolis of Dahshur, this pyramid is known for its distinctive bent shape. It has a volume of 43,685,655 ft³ or 1,237,040 m³.

4. The Red Pyramid

This Egyptian pyramid ranks as the third-largest in the world by volume, with 59,823,045 ft³ or 1,694,000 m³. It is a true smooth-sided pyramid.

3. The Great Pyramid of Khafre

The Great Pyramid of Khafre, the second-largest at the Giza complex, holds a volume of 78,084,118 ft³ (2,211,096 m³), though it appears taller due to its position on lower ground.

2. The Great Pyramid of Giza

Located in Egypt, the Giza pyramids are one of the seven wonders of the ancient world and a top tourist destination. Its monumental size — 84,755,200 ft³ or 2.4 million m³ — and historical importance make it one of ancient Egypt's most remarkable architectural feats.

1. The Great Pyramid of Cholula

Located approximately 63 miles from Mexico City, the largest pyramid in the world stands at Cholula de Rivadavia. The Quetzalcóatl Pyramid holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest pyramid globally.

This ancient temple spans 166,538,400 ft³ (3.3 million m³) and is recognized as the "largest monument ever constructed" by Guinness. Built in honor of the Aztec god Quetzalcoatl, the Cholula pyramid sits atop a hill, with a Catholic church dedicated to the Virgin Mary at the summit of the complex.

The Tallest Pyramid

Some of the largest pyramids by volume, such as the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, also rank among the tallest. However, the ultimate tallest pyramid is the Great Pyramid of Giza, which Guinness World Records has recognized as the "tallest pyramid."

"Also referred to as the Great Pyramid, it stood 146.7 m (481 ft, 3 in) tall when it was completed around 4,500 years ago. However, due to erosion and damage, its current height is 137.5 m (451 ft, 1 in)," according to Guinness.

Perception of a Contemporary Pyramid

Modern pyramids do exist, though they're more accurately described as pyramid-shaped structures. A prime example is the Transamerica Pyramid in San Francisco.

At 853 ft (260 m) tall, the Transamerica Pyramid ranks as one of the tallest pyramid-shaped buildings and one of the tallest structures in San Francisco. When the design was unveiled by the Transamerica Corporation, it wasn't met with enthusiasm. One writer referred to it as "authentic architectural butchery."