A new theory on egyptian pyramids’ construction

New study suggests that the construction of the Pyramid of Djoser may have used a complex hydraulic system, rewriting the history of the Egyptian pyramids

Have you ever wondered how the ancient Egyptians, without cranes or modern technology, managed to construct the enormous pyramids? A new study might finally unveil the mystery. It proposes that not just brute force, but also the use of water, played a crucial role in building the iconic Step Pyramid of Djoser.

The researchers’ hypothesis

Researchers hypothesize a complex hydraulic system that included a dam, a water treatment facility, and internal wells capable of lifting enormous stone blocks to construct this architectural masterpiece from about 4,500 years ago. If confirmed, this discovery could rewrite the history of one of the world’s most enduring architectural wonders.

Built by the architect Imhotep around 2670-2650 B.C. during Pharaoh Djoser’s reign, the Step Pyramid of Saqqara has been the subject of numerous theories regarding its construction methods. Traditionally, it has been believed that the pyramid was built using ramps and manual labor to move the massive stone blocks. However, a team of researchers led by Xavier Landreau from the CEA Paleotechnic Institute in France suggests that water could have been channeled into two wells within the pyramid, raising and lowering floats that transported the heavy building blocks.

The potential role of the Gisr el-Mudir Complex

This theory proposes that the Gisr el-Mudir enclosure, previously considered an unfinished structure, could have functioned as a dam to capture water and sediments. The topography suggests the presence of an ancient lake west of the Djoser complex. Moreover, a series of compartments outside the pyramid might have served as a water treatment plant, allowing sediments to settle and clean water to flow into the pyramid’s wells, creating the necessary force to lift the stones.

This unprecedented method in Egyptology could explain the precision and scale of construction achieved by the pyramid builders. The use of hydraulic lifts would have reduced the physical labor required and allowed for a more precise placement of the massive stone blocks. While further research is needed to understand the exact mechanisms and the availability of water in ancient Egypt, the study’s authors suggest that a hydraulic lifting system might have complemented other construction methods like ramps.

Influence on future developments

The techniques and knowledge implemented in the Djoser mortuary complex profoundly influenced future developments and were perfected during the third and fourth dynasties of the Old Kingdom. This period saw a substantial increase in the size of megaliths, leading to the construction of spectacularly large pyramids, such as those on the plateaus of Meidum, Dahshur, and Giza. In less than 150 years, the average weight of large stones increased from about 660 pounds in the Djoser pyramid to more than 5,500 pounds for the structural blocks of the Khafre pyramid.

The study suggests that the great pyramids of Khufu and Khafre on the Giza plateau were the result of the technical progress initiated with the earlier pyramids. These colossal constructions might also have involved the hydraulic systems hypothesized for the Step Pyramid.

Opening new research avenues

This discovery opens a new line of research for scientists, exploring the use of hydraulic power in the construction of Egyptian pyramids. Archaeologists might search for signs of similar systems at other archaeological sites for further clues.