Did water help build Great Pyramids? New study suggests so
What's the story
A recent study published in PLOS One journal has introduced a groundbreaking theory on the construction of the Great Pyramids.
The researchers propose that water, an unexpected element in the desert environment, may have been instrumental in building these ancient structures.
The focus of this study is the Step Pyramid of Djoser, erected approximately 4,500 years ago and recognized as Egypt's oldest significant stone building.
Ancient hydraulics
Hydraulic lifts: The secret behind pyramid construction?
The researchers theorize that a unified water-powered hydraulic lift system was used to construct the Step Pyramid of Djoser.
This theory challenges previous hypotheses suggesting the use of ramps and levers for pyramid construction.
The researchers noted that ancient Egyptians are famous for their pioneering and mastery of hydraulics through canals for irrigation purposes and barges to transport huge stones, opening a new line of research into the use of hydraulic force in erecting these massive structures.
Pyramid building
Canals and 'volcano' construction: The Egyptian way
The study suggests that the pyramid's architects utilized nearby canals, similar to how Egyptians used canals for crop irrigation.
The researchers believe that pressurized water was used to float the building stones toward the upper levels of the pyramid through an internal shaftway, a process known as "volcano" construction.
This innovative approach to construction demonstrates a potential new understanding of ancient Egyptian engineering techniques.
Ancient engineering
Evidence of hydraulic system found at Djoser Pyramid
Researchers discovered evidence of a unified water filtration and hydraulic system at the Step Pyramid.
This system purified water from nearby canals and regulated its flow.
Dr Xavier Landreau, of CEA Paleotechnic Institute, explained that compartments dug into the ground outside the pyramid may have served as a water treatment facility.
He suggested that water might have flowed into the pyramid shafts, with the rising force potentially helping to carry the building stones.
Expert opinions
Experts remain skeptical of new pyramid construction theory
Despite the compelling new theory, not all experts are convinced.
Dr Judith Bunbury, a geoarchaeologist at the University of Cambridge, and Dr David Jeffreys, a retired senior lecturer in Egyptian archaeology at University College London, remain skeptical.
They argue that while ancient Egyptians did employ other hydraulic technologies, there's no concrete evidence to support the existence of a hydraulic lift system for pyramid construction.
The study's authors acknowledge the need for further research to understand the potential water lift system.