Cleopatra VII, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, is often romanticized as a symbol of beauty, power, and intrigue. Her reign, marked by political alliances and personal dramas, occurred between 51 BC and 30 BC. Despite her historical significance, what surprises many is the temporal distance between her life and two iconic events in human history.

The construction of the Great Pyramid of Giza, a monumental feat of ancient Egyptian architecture, began around 2580 BC during the reign of Pharaoh Khufu (Cheops). This architectural wonder stood as the tallest man-made structure for over 3,800 years. In stark contrast, Cleopatra lived closer in time to the 1969 Apollo 11 moon landing than to the completion of the Great Pyramid. Neil Armstrong’s historic first steps on the lunar surface occurred over 2,000 years after Cleopatra’s death.

This fact underscores the vast expanse of time encompassed by Egyptian history and highlights Cleopatra’s pivotal role as a historical figure straddling ancient and modern eras. Her life, intricately woven with political maneuvering and cultural influence, continues to captivate imaginations centuries later. From her legendary romances with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony to her role in Egypt’s turbulent political landscape, Cleopatra’s legacy endures as a testament to the enduring allure and power of ancient Egypt.