The Old Kingdom of ancient Egypt, lasting from around 2686 to 2181 BCE, is known as the "Age of the Pyramids." This period saw the construction of the most famous pyramids, including the Great Pyramid of Giza and the Pyramid of Khafre. It was a time of strong centralized government and significant advancements in art, architecture, and writing. During the Old Kingdom, the pharaoh was considered a divine ruler, and the society was highly organized. The Egyptian religion played a crucial role, with beliefs in the afterlife leading to elaborate burial practices. The period ended due to political instability and economic decline, leading to the First Intermediate Period.