Why Does Memphis, TN Have a Pyramid? The Story Behind the Iconic Structure
When you think of Memphis, Tennessee, images of Graceland, the Mississippi River, and maybe some legendary blues music might come to mind. But towering over the cityscape is another unmistakable icon: a massive pyramid. It’s a structure that sparks curiosity and prompts a simple yet significant question: Why does Memphis, TN have a pyramid?
The answer isn't as straightforward as you might think, and it involves a blend of ambitious vision, civic pride, and a touch of Southern flair. Let's delve into the history and purpose of this unique building.
The Genesis of the Pyramid: A Bold Vision for Memphis
The Memphis Pyramid, officially known as the Great Pyramid of Memphis, was conceived in the late 1980s. The city was looking for a new, signature landmark, something that would put Memphis on the map in a big way and serve as a centerpiece for entertainment and sports. The idea of a pyramid, a shape steeped in history and grandeur, was proposed by real estate developer John F. McEnery Jr. and architect Patrick W. Lee. The inspiration, they claimed, was to create a structure that evoked the timeless power and mystery of ancient Egyptian pyramids, but with a modern, functional purpose.
The goal was to build an arena that could attract major sporting events, concerts, and other large-scale gatherings. Memphis was a growing city, and leaders believed a world-class venue was essential for its continued development and appeal. The pyramid design was seen as a way to make a bold statement – a structure that was not only functional but also visually striking and instantly recognizable.
Construction and Initial Purpose
Construction of the Great Pyramid began in 1989 and was completed in 1991. It was an engineering feat for its time, standing as the third-largest pyramid in the world by the time of its completion. Its sheer scale was designed to impress:
- The pyramid stands 321 feet tall.
- Its base covers approximately 5 acres.
- It was the largest structure of its kind built in the late 20th century.
Upon its opening, the Pyramid primarily served as a multi-purpose sports and entertainment arena. It was the home of the Memphis Tigers men's basketball team from the University of Memphis and also hosted numerous concerts by legendary artists, professional wrestling events, and other special attractions. The sheer novelty of watching a basketball game or a concert inside a giant pyramid was a significant draw for both locals and visitors.
The Pyramid's Transformation: From Arena to Entertainment Complex
While the Pyramid enjoyed success for many years, the world of sports and entertainment venues is constantly evolving. By the early 2000s, the need for more modern facilities became apparent. The city eventually decided to build a new, state-of-the-art arena, the FedExForum, which opened in 2004. This meant the Great Pyramid’s days as a primary sports venue were numbered.
However, the story of the Pyramid didn't end there. Instead, it entered a new chapter of reinvention. In 2015, the Pyramid underwent a massive, multi-million dollar transformation to become the Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid. This was a bold and somewhat unconventional decision to convert a colossal sports arena into a retail store.
The Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid is far more than just a store. It's an immersive entertainment experience:
- It features an enormous indoor cypress swamp.
- It includes a 28-story observation deck offering panoramic views of the city.
- It boasts a hotel, restaurants, and attractions like a bowling alley and an indoor archery range.
The retail giant decided to embrace the pyramid’s unique shape and history, integrating elements of nature and adventure into the shopping experience. The goal was to make it a tourist destination in its own right, drawing people in not just to buy outdoor gear but to experience the novelty of the pyramid itself.
Why a Pyramid? The Enduring Appeal
So, to circle back to the original question, why does Memphis, TN have a pyramid? It was initially built as a bold, ambitious statement piece – a landmark arena designed to elevate the city's profile and provide a world-class venue for entertainment and sports. The pyramid shape was chosen for its iconic status, its historical connotations of grandeur, and its potential to be a unique architectural marvel.
Even after its transition from an arena to a retail and entertainment complex, the pyramid remains a testament to Memphis's willingness to think outside the box and its desire for distinctive landmarks. It stands as a symbol of the city's innovative spirit and its ability to adapt and reinvent itself.
The Memphis Pyramid is a perfect example of how a city can take a seemingly unconventional idea and turn it into something that defines its identity and attracts visitors from around the globe. It’s a landmark that continues to capture the imagination.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Memphis Pyramid
Why is it called the Great Pyramid?
It is called the Great Pyramid due to its monumental size and its deliberate resemblance to the ancient pyramids of Egypt, signifying a grand and impressive structure.
How much did the Pyramid cost to build?
The construction of the original Pyramid cost approximately $65 million. The subsequent renovation and transformation into the Bass Pro Shops cost significantly more, with estimates in the tens of millions of dollars.
What was inside the Pyramid before it became Bass Pro Shops?
Before becoming a Bass Pro Shops, the Pyramid was primarily a sports and entertainment arena. It hosted concerts, sporting events (most notably Memphis Tigers basketball), and various other large gatherings.
Is the Bass Pro Shops Pyramid a functional pyramid?
While it is shaped like a pyramid and serves a commercial purpose, it is not a functional pyramid in the ancient sense. It is a modern building designed to resemble and house a large retail and entertainment complex.
Why did they build a pyramid instead of a more conventional arena?
The pyramid design was a conscious choice to create a unique, iconic landmark for Memphis that would stand out and generate significant public interest and tourism, going beyond the typical design of a sports arena.
