The Christmas Pyramid (Weihnachtspyramide) - Have been part of the German christmas tradition for centuries. With a name like, Christmas Pyramid, you would think that they were influenced by the Egyptian pyramids, but that is not the case. They are actually inspired by mining capstans. German travelers started calling these christmas decorations "pyramids" and the name has stuck ever since. The Weihnachtspyramide is also not only a Christmas decoration; traditionally they were made to celebrate every season and holiday.They became very popular in the 1830's with the discovery of kerosene, as candles at that time were very expensive.