Recent study on Pyramid Construction Techniques

Source-This post on Recent study on Pyramid Construction Techniques has been created based on the article “Secret behind construction of Egypt’s pyramids: What a new study reveals” published in “The Indian Express” on 20 May 2024.

Why in the news?

A recent study on Pyramid Construction Techniques provides insights into how ancient Egyptians transported massive stone blocks needed for pyramid construction.

Findings of the study

1. The study highlights the critical role of the River Nile in facilitating the construction of Egypt’s pyramids.

Researchers have identified an extinct branch of the Nile that ran adjacent to the pyramid sites, which was instrumental in moving heavy materials.

2. Discovery of the Nile Branch: The research team used radar satellite imagery, historical maps, geophysical surveys, and sediment coring to map the ancient river branch, now buried by sandstorms and a major drought.

3. The study suggests that this branch of the Nile likely served as a waterway for transporting not just stone blocks but also equipment and personnel, significantly easing the construction process.

4. The study showed that several causeways leading from the pyramids connected to inlets of this Nile branch, which may have functioned as riverine harbours.

5. The ancient Egyptians likely used large ramps, possibly greased with water or wet clay, along with sledges, sturdy ropes, and levers to move the stones from the harbours to the pyramid sites.

6. This discovery supports the theory that the logistical capabilities of the ancient Egyptians, including the use of the river’s natural flow, reduced the human labor needed and optimized the construction process of the pyramids.

7. The study also revealed about the advanced mathematical and architectural knowledge of the Egyptians, as evidenced by the precise 52-degree gradient on each side and alignments in pyramid construction.

8. The archaeological findings of well-organized living quarters, bakeries, and food remnants near the pyramids indicate that the laborers were well-provided for, and that the entire construction effort was managed by a centralized authority.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology, World History