'Ancient Engineering': Scientists may have uncovered the secret behind the construction of the Egyptian pyramids
Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
Egyptian Hydraulic Lift System
A new study led by Xavier Landreau from the CEA Paleotechnic Institute in France suggests that ancient Egyptians may have used an innovative hydraulic lift system to construct the Pyramid of Djoser, Egypt’s oldest pyramid, challenging long-held beliefs about pyramid-building techniques.
Pyramid of Djoser: A Historical Puzzle
The Step Pyramid, built around 2680 BCE for Pharaoh Djoser as a funerary complex, has puzzled archaeologists for centuries. The study, published in PLOS ONE, offers fresh insight into how ancient Egyptians might have engineered the construction of such monumental structures.
Pyramid Building
According to the study, the nearby Gisr el-Mudir enclosure could have functioned as a "check dam" to capture water and sediment. This would have played a crucial role in controlling the water supply that was potentially used in construction processes at the site.
Possible Water Treatment Facility
The researchers also identified a series of compartments outside the pyramid, which may have been used as a water treatment facility. These chambers could have allowed sediment to settle as water passed through, possibly aiding in the pyramid’s construction by providing a source of clean water.
Hydraulic Lift Theory for Raising Stones
One of the most intriguing aspects of the study is the proposal that two shafts inside the pyramid may have allowed water to flow, creating a hydraulic lift system. This system could have been used to raise and lower building stones, complementing other construction techniques like ramps.
Pyramid Construction
This new hypothesis offers a revolutionary approach to understanding how the ancient Egyptians managed to transport large stones to higher levels of the pyramid. The hydraulic lift system could have significantly reduced the effort needed to move these heavy materials.
Further Research
While the study presents a compelling theory, the authors acknowledge that more research is required to fully understand the mechanics of this proposed system and the availability of water during the time of construction.
Ancient Engineering
This discovery opens up new avenues for understanding the engineering prowess of ancient Egypt. If confirmed, the use of hydraulic power in pyramid construction would represent a major shift in our perception of how these iconic monuments were built, adding another layer to Egypt’s legacy of technological innovation.