This pyramid complex was built in the 3rd Dynasty (2649-2575 BC) for the pharaoh Djoser by his architect Imhotep. It earned Djoser, and more importantly Imhotep, everlasting fame -- Imhotep was later deified and regarded as the patron god of architects and doctors. The pyramid is completely unlike those of the 4th and 5th Dynasties. It was the first stone pyramid (and complex) to be built in Egypt, and its form imitates wood, papyrus, mud brick, and matting in limestone.
Intended to hold his mummified body, Pharaoh Djoser's Step Pyramid at Saqqara began as a traditional, flat-roofed mastaba. But by the end of his 19-year reign, in 2611 B.C., it had risen to six stepped layers and stood 204 feet (62 meters) high. It was the 
largest building of its time.
Extensive use of stone—here and there carved to resemble wood, reeds, or other softer materials—made the tomb more durable than its mud-brick forebears. Such pioneering techniques led many ancient historians to credit the chief architect, Imhotep, with inventing stone architecture.
The Step Pyramid complex was enclosed by a 30-foot (10-meter) wall and included courtyards, temples, and chapels covering nearly 40 acres (16 hectares)—the size of a large town in the third millennium B.C.
largest building of its time.Extensive use of stone—here and there carved to resemble wood, reeds, or other softer materials—made the tomb more durable than its mud-brick forebears. Such pioneering techniques led many ancient historians to credit the chief architect, Imhotep, with inventing stone architecture.
The Step Pyramid complex was enclosed by a 30-foot (10-meter) wall and included courtyards, temples, and chapels covering nearly 40 acres (16 hectares)—the size of a large town in the third millennium B.C.
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