A geological survey has uncovered a major tributary of the River Nile that ancient Egyptians may have used to transport the massive stones for constructing the Great Pyramid of Giza. This discovery sheds light on one of the ancient wonders of the world, located in a region with around 32 pyramids.
Today, the Giza pyramid complex is kilometers away from the River Nile. However, during the time of the pharaohs, the river was much closer. A new study published in the journal Communications Earth & Environment used satellite imagery and geological data to confirm that the Nile once flowed near many of these significant sites.
The ancient river, named the Ahramat Branch (meaning ‘pyramid’ in Arabic), was similar in size to the modern Nile. This 64-kilometer-long waterway was crucial for construction and trade during the Old Kingdom period.
Lead study author Eman Ghoneim explained that the Ahramat Branch’s large size and proximity to 31 pyramids indicate it was a vital waterway. This river would have been essential for transporting the large building materials and laborers needed for the pyramids’ construction.
Additionally, many pyramids in the study area have a causeway, a ceremonial raised walkway, that aligns with the course of the Ahramat Branch and ends at its riverbank. This suggests a deliberate design to utilize the river for transportation.
Geographer Nick Marriner emphasized that this study completes an important part of the past landscape puzzle. Understanding the ancient Nile floodplain helps us see how the Egyptians harnessed their environment to transport materials for their monumental constructions.
This discovery provides a clearer picture of the landscape during the pyramid builders’ time and their innovative use of natural resources.
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