Before the Pyramids: How Ancient Egypt Built an Icon
✨ The Great Pyramids of Giza is one of the most recognizable structures on Earth—but what came before it?
Join Nicole Lazo, art historian and professor at Sacramento City College, for a journey nearly 5,000 years into the past to uncover how one of history's greatest architectural achievements came to be.
The ancient Egyptians didn't begin by building towering pyramids. Their earliest rulers were buried in simple rectangular tombs called mastabas. So how did these modest structures evolve into the colossal monuments that still dominate the Egyptian landscape today?
Following the reigns of early pharaohs, Nicole will trace the remarkable progression from mastabas to step pyramids to the Great Pyramids of Giza, revealing the experimentation, ambition, and ingenuity that transformed ancient burial traditions into the last surviving Wonder of the Ancient World.
Nicole Lazo is an adjunct professor of Art History and Humanities at Sacramento City College and creator and co-faculty advisor of the SCC Art History Club. A proud graduate of California's community college system, she earned dual bachelor's degrees in Art History and International Relations from UC Davis before completing her master's degree in Art History and Visual Culture at Lindenwood University. An avid traveler who has visited many of the ancient sites she teaches, Nicole combines historical scholarship with firsthand experience to bring ancient civilizations vividly to life.
Expect fascinating history, incredible architecture, and a new appreciation for how one of humanity's greatest monuments rose from surprisingly humble beginnings. 🏺✨
🕰 Event Details
What should I expect?
6:30 - 7:30 : doors open for people to arrive, chats, enjoy food and drinks
7:30 - 8:20 : lecture
8:20 - 8:35 : Q&A
8:35 - 9:00: more time for chats, hanging out, and then we're out!
Who's invited?
Anyone with an interest in learning new things, meeting new people, and doing fun things on weeknights! Lots of people come solo to our events, so don't be afraid to do the same—you’ll meet some awesome people!
What about parking?
There's no designated on-site parking so we recommend street parking or using public transportation.
Do I have to be 21+?
No :) This venue is open to all ages. If you'd like to purchase alcohol, you must be 21+ and present a valid ID.
Will this event be photographed or recorded?
Photos and short video clips may be taken for promotional purposes. By attending, you consent to being photographed or recorded. We do not do full recordings of lectures at this time.
🧾 Policies
The lecture is sold out! Can I join a waitlist?
Unfortunately, Luma does NOT support waitlists for paid events yet. We recommend checking back on the event site the day before / the day of the event!
What about refunds?
You can refund your ticket up to 24 hours before the event starts. Since this is a limited-space event, we encourage you to update your RSVP if you can’t make it—this helps us keep spots open for others. NOTE - you do NOT need to email us for a refund, we will issue one within 48 hours upon changing your RSVP to "Not Going" :)
What about accessibility?
We want our lectures to be as accessible as possible. Accessibility can vary depending on the space, so please research our specific venue to learn more about things like wheelchair access and service animal policies. If you have any accessibility needs not covered here, please email us at sac@bigbrainlectures.com and we’ll do our best to support you.
What about the ticket structure?
Every ticket sold goes directly back into the business. However, we want to make our events accessible to everyone. If cost is a barrier, please reach out for financial assistance by emailing sac@bigbrainlectures.com.
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🧠 Community Guidelines
Big Brain events are designed to be welcoming, curious, and respectful spaces for learning and connection.
By attending, you agree to treat speakers, staff, venue employees, and fellow attendees with respect and to follow all venue rules and staff instructions.
Harassment, disruptive behavior, or excessive intoxication will not be tolerated. For the safety and comfort of everyone, Big Brain and the venue reserve the right to refuse entry or remove any attendee at any time, without refund, if behavior is deemed unsafe, disruptive, or disrespectful.
🍸 Alcohol & Safety
Depending on the venue, alcohol may be sold and served exclusively by the venue in accordance with California law. Big Brain is not responsible or liable for alcohol service, overconsumption, or any actions resulting from intoxication. By attending, you voluntarily assume all risks associated with a public indoor event and agree that you are solely responsible for your own conduct, safety, and transportation before, during, and after the event.
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*For any other questions or special accommodations, please email sac@bigbrainlectures.com.