A recent report discovered an ancient and long-lost branch of the Nile River, which flowed near 30 pyramids. The findings can decipher how the early Egyptians managed to transport massive stones.
Egypt has been a significant place of discovery, from early civilizations, pyramids, and other essential artifacts or fossils. Understanding the early existence of Egypt can provide new insights into their survival.
One of the notable discoveries is the massive pyramids. Pyramids unleashed skillful architecture and engineering using blocks of stone. Additionally, they showcased the emergence of civilization in Egypt.
The research findings were published in Communications Earth and Environment. Using radar satellite imagery and geophysical data, researchers uncovered segments of a major extinct Nile Branch near most pyramids.
Long-Lost River Near Pyramids in Egypt
Advanced technological tools like radar satellite imagery made unearthing the Nile River's long-lost branch possible. In a recent report, researchers explained that the findings were hidden under farmland and desert.
Researchers noted the 64-kilometer-long river near the Giza pyramid complex. The extinct Nile branch, known as the Ahramat Branch, can significantly offer new sights for the region's monument construction and the use of transportation waterways to transport building materials like massive stones.
The report explains that the river branch was believed to have been active between 4,700 and 3,700 years ago. This timeline could align with where the 31 pyramids were established. The area is significant in water flow, including in the Great Pyramid of Ghiza and other pyramids.
While early Egyptians showcased remarkable engineering and architectural knowledge in constructing pyramids, other researchers have been studying how they transported stones. The new study findings can offer new insights into the transport hypothesis for pyramid construction.
However, the discovery was not easy at first. Eman Ghoneim, lead author from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, explained the uncertainty of the mega waterway in terms of size, shape, location, and connection to nearby pyramids.
Role of Radar Technology
The imagery used radar technology and unearthed the sand surface, revealing ancient structures and buried rivers. Then, field surveys and sediment cores were allowed to confirm the river in the area.
The report also explains that the rivers helped transport materials, which likely floated on the water. This process can make it easier to transport construction materials.
One of the most popular pyramids is the Great Pyramid at Giza, 481 feet high with stone blocks. It includes tombs, chapels, temples, and massive walls. Additionally, unique construction techniques were used to move stones, copper tools, and abrasive powders.
While pyramids hold cultural and societal importance, they have become targets of robbers. As a result, protecting pyramids from possible threats is essential to prevent potential devastating damage to their existence.
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