NEW DELHI: Scientists across the world have long been baffled over the technologies that might have been used in the construction of the iconic pyramids.

A new study suggests that ancient Egyptians may have employed an innovative hydraulic lift system to construct the Pyramid of Djoser, Egypt’s oldest pyramid.

The research, led by Xavier Landreau from CEA Paleotechnic Institute in France, proposes a revolutionary theory about the construction methods used for this iconic structure.

The Step Pyramid, built around 2680 BCE as a funerary complex for Pharaoh Djoser, has long puzzled archaeologists regarding its construction techniques. This new interdisciplinary analysis offers a fresh perspective on the ancient Egyptians’ engineering prowess.

According to the study, published in PLOS ONE, the nearby Gisr el-Mudir enclosure may have functioned as a “check dam” to capture water and sediment.

Additionally, researchers identified a series of compartments outside the pyramid that could have served as a water treatment facility, allowing sediment to settle as water passed through successive chambers.

The most intriguing aspect of the theory involves two shafts inside the pyramid itself.

Researchers propose that water could flow into these shafts, creating a hydraulic lift system to raise and lower a float carrying building stones. This method would have significantly aided in the pyramid’s construction, complementing other techniques like ramps.

While the study presents a compelling hypothesis, the authors acknowledge that further research is necessary to fully understand the system’s mechanics and the water availability during that historical period. Nevertheless, this discovery opens up new avenues for understanding ancient Egyptian engineering and construction methods.

The collaborative effort between Paleotechnic and several national laboratories has potentially uncovered a dam, water treatment facility, and hydraulic elevator system at Saqqara.

This new work may revolutionise our understanding of how the pyramids of Egypt were built, introducing the concept of hydraulic power in ancient construction techniques.

Agencies

KR Desk