A triangular pyramid has three lateral faces and a triangular base. The construction of a pyramid requires a polygonal base with triangular lateral faces that meet at a common vertex.
The shape of a pyramid's base determines its name. The number of sides of the base polygon determines the number of faces of the pyramid. The pyramids of Egypt are square pyramids. Some have smooth faces, while others have stepped faces. The triangle creates great structural strength in architecture. Of the seven wonders of the ancient world, only the Pyramid at Gaza remains. Pyramids serve as the tombs for ancient royalty.
