The king's burial chamber, at the bottom of the central shaft of the pyramid of Djoser

Saqqara, Egypt – The iconic Step Pyramid of Djoser, a testament to ancient Egyptian engineering prowess, has long baffled researchers with its sheer scale and complexity.

But a groundbreaking new theory suggests that the pharaoh's tomb may have been built using a previously unknown method: a hydraulic lift system.

Erected around 4,500 years ago, Djoser's pyramid marked a revolutionary departure from earlier structures. Its construction has been a subject of intense speculation, with many theories proposed to explain how such a massive stone edifice was raised into place.

Now, a team led by Egyptologist Xavier Landreau believes they may have cracked the code. By analyzing previously unexplained structures at Saqqara, including a large enclosure and a deep trench, they propose that these features were part of a sophisticated water management system.

This system, they argue, could have powered a hydraulic lift capable of hoisting enormous stone blocks to the pyramid's summit.

A diagram demonstrating how the hydraulic lift might have functioned

The researchers suggest that water channeled through the trench and into the pyramid could have created a powerful force, similar to volcanic lava, capable of raising a floating platform laden with heavy stones.

If proven, this theory would redefine our understanding of ancient Egyptian technology and construction methods.

While this hypothesis is undoubtedly exciting, it's important to note that further research is needed to solidify the theory. Questions remain about the availability of water during construction and how water flow could have been effectively controlled.

Additionally, other methods of pyramid building, such as ramps and levers, were likely employed alongside any hydraulic system.

Regardless, this discovery highlights the ingenuity of the ancient Egyptians and underscores the need for continued exploration of their remarkable achievements.

If the hydraulic lift theory holds true, it could reshape our perception of the pyramid-building process and inspire new approaches to modern construction challenges.

Sources:

Published August 5, 2024 in PLOS ONE; On the possible use of hydraulic force to assist with building the step pyramid of saqqara; https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0306690

Discover