By The newspaper
02 Oct 2023, 01:45 AM EDT
In a remarkable archaeological breakthrough, long-forgotten chambers hidden inside an ancient Egyptian pyramid have come to light, validating the suspicions of the first excavators who explored this majestic site almost two centuries ago.
These newly discovered chambers have recently been revealed within the Pyramid of Sahura, a monumental structure built around 4,400 years ago during the reign of the Egyptian pharaoh Sahura of the Fifth Dynasty, according to a study published at the University of Würzburg.
The pyramid has been the subject of an extensive restoration project since 2019, aimed at cleaning its interior spaces and safeguarding it from further deterioration, with the ultimate goal of preserving this ancient wonder.
As part of the meticulous conservation efforts, a dedicated team successfully cleared a once-blocked corridor, allowing them access to previously unexplored chambers within the depths of the pyramid.
While these chambers may not have been grand in purpose, probably serving as storage spaces, their discovery offers valuable insight into the architectural complexities and design principles employed in pyramid construction.
Researchers at the University of Würzburg recently employed cutting-edge LiDAR (light detection and ranging) imaging technology to conduct a comprehensive study of the pyramid. This cutting-edge mapping allowed the creation of precise plans for the pyramid’s antechamber. These detailed plans played a critical role in the conservation project, ensuring the structural stability of the newly accessible chambers and paving the way for future exploration.
The Pyramid of Sahura, rising to an impressive height of 155 feet, stands proudly within the Abusir necropolis. This sacred burial site served as the final resting place for the pharaohs of the Fifth Dynasty of ancient Egypt and is home to a notable complex consisting of 14 Egyptian pyramids.
Among these architectural wonders are three major royal pyramids, a constellation of smaller pyramids, and even unfinished structures.
Historically, the history of the pyramid began in 1836, when British engineer John Shae Perring embarked on its excavation. Perring, known for his explorations of ancient Egyptian structures (sometimes using explosives), held the belief that the sealed corridor led to a series of storage rooms.
Unfortunately, the hallway was severely damaged, littered with debris and impassable. Tragically, these early excavations caused notable damage to the internal structure of the pyramid.
The Sahara Pyramid is famous for its distinctive and robust appearance. Unlike the iconic pyramids of the Giza pyramid complex, which feature smooth, imposing surfaces, this pyramid currently appears as an irregular mound, adorned with strangely shaped blocks and surrounded by the remains of collapsed structures and pillars.
At its peak, it featured impeccably carved limestone facing stones that gave it a pristine appearance.
While the Pyramids of Giza have required more extensive study and superior preservation, researchers continue to uncover interior wonders hidden within these timeless structures.
Earlier this year, archaeologists used advanced three-dimensional imaging to reveal the mysteries hidden within the Great Pyramid of Giza, revealing hidden passageways that have the potential to illuminate the extraordinary engineering behind this impressive monument.
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