Egypt’s Great Pyramids have long captivated the world with their enigmatic construction methods. Recent research has unveiled a groundbreaking discovery shedding light on the sophisticated engineering behind the iconic structures.
A new study published in the journal PLOS ONE has proposed a revolutionary theory regarding the construction of the Step Pyramid of Djoser, a 4,500-year-old marvel. Contrary to previous beliefs of using ramps and levers, researchers now suggest that the pyramid was built with the aid of a sophisticated hydraulic lift system.
The study indicates that the Ancient Egyptians ingeniously utilized nearby canals to power weight-bearing lifts. Water was directed into shafts within the pyramid to operate a float mechanism that transported heavy stone blocks, revolutionizing our understanding of ancient construction techniques.
The Step Pyramid, constructed around 2680 BCE as a funerary complex for Pharaoh Djoser, has long puzzled experts. The study proposes that a neighboring structure, the Gisr el-Mudir enclosure, served as a water capture dam, while compartments outside the pyramid acted as a water treatment facility.
The researchers suggest that pressurized water was used to float building stones upwards through an internal shaftway, a process termed “volcano” construction. While further investigations are required to understand the water flow dynamics and availability during that era, the study marks a significant breakthrough in pyramid construction research.
The authors emphasize that while traditional methods like ramps were likely employed, the use of a hydraulic lift system could have played a crucial role in supporting the construction process when sufficient water was present.
This pioneering research, conducted in collaboration with national laboratories, has unveiled the presence of a dam, water treatment facility, and hydraulic elevator that potentially facilitated the construction of the Step Pyramid of Saqqara.
The study concludes by highlighting the importance of exploring the use of hydraulic power in ancient Egyptian pyramid construction, opening up a new avenue for scientific inquiry into the mysteries of the past.
