The mystery surrounding the construction of the ancient Egyptian pyramids may have found a solution with the discovery of an ancient waterway near Giza; Named the Ahramat Branch, this colossal dried-up riverbed, which was once part of the Nile, spans about 100 kilometers and passes adjacent to 38 pyramid sites.
Researchers, led by Dr. Eman Ghoneim, utilized radar satellite data to uncover this invisible river beneath the surface, shedding light on a potential transportation route for materials and workers during the construction of the iconic pyramids thousands of years ago.
The clustering of pyramids along the western desert margin of the Nile floodplain led researchers to hypothesize the existence of a significant watercourse in the area, supporting ambitious construction projects. Dr. Ghoneim emphasized that the distribution of pyramids implied the presence of water bodies facilitating the transportation of rocks and labor to construction sites.
The Ahramat Branch, with widths exceeding half a kilometer in some areas, is considered a major riverbed that likely played a pivotal role in this process.
The team plans to analyze soil cores from the ancient riverbed to confirm its activity during the Old and Middle Kingdoms, corresponding to the pyramid construction era. Many pyramid complexes feature valley temples, akin to harbors or ancient ports, located precisely along the bank of the discovered branch. This correlation strengthens the hypothesis that the waterway was integral to the construction and transportation processes.
Beyond unraveling the pyramid mystery, the exploration of ancient Nile branches offers broader archaeological implications. Dr. Ghoneim highlighted the potential for uncovering lost settlements and sites, contributing to a deeper understanding of Ancient Egypt’s history and heritage.
As the main course of the Nile has shifted over time, following these ancient waterways provides valuable clues for locating vanished cities and towns, enriching our knowledge of Egyptian civilization. The research, presented at the 13th International Congress of Egyptologists, offers a significant step forward in decoding the secrets of the pyramids and Ancient Egypt.
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