The Retention of Ancient History: Why the Egyptian Pyramids Should Not Be Restored
In the world of art and antiquities, there is a constant battle between conservationists and restorers. For the Pyramids of Giza, conservationists have won this battle, and with good reason. The battle's outcome revolves around the delicate balance between preserving history and restoring it to a former state. This article explores why the restoration of these ancient monuments is not the best approach and delves into the intricate details of how these pyramids were originally constructed.
Understanding Conservation
Conservation is the practice of maintaining artifacts and structures in their current state. It is not about altering or restoring them; instead, it is about protecting them from further deterioration. The damage that has been inflicted on the Pyramids at Giza, while unfortunate, is an integral part of their history. Removing this damage through restoration would mean erasing a significant part of the story these magnificent structures tell.
The Costs and Methods of Restoration
The attempt to restore the pyramids back to their former glory has not been pursued because of the high costs involved. Additionally, renowned archaeologists like Flanders Petrie, who receive funding from institutions like universities, are hesitant to acknowledge the methods that could be used. Such acknowledgment would likely jeopardize their funding, as it would validate the effectiveness of these techniques.
Understanding the Construction Methods
The construction of the pyramids involved a unique method that is still largely unknown to the general public. The Big Pyramid of Khufu, or Cheops as the Greeks called it, was constructed using artificial stone, which is similar to concrete. This artificial stone was poured on-site and contained different sizes of stones, each layer featuring a specific size. This individualization of stones in each layer was designed to prevent cracks from earthquakes, which is a critical consideration in construction even today.
Today, red brick buildings that lack the same individual stone sizes often crack from top to bottom during earthquakes, resulting in significant structural damage. This method, which prevented such failures, was stopped due to the environmental impact of burning shade trees along the Nile to produce the required ash for the concrete's stabilization. This ash, similar to lime, was needed to harden the stone. Consequently, the hundreds of pyramids built after the time of Khufu were made of mud bricks, which crumbled over time, leaving piles of sand and dirt.
Modern Insights on Pyramid Construction
Recent research has shed light on the construction techniques used to build these pyramids. Geopolymer concrete, a modern scientific term for the ancient technique, was used. Joseph Davidovits, a researcher, demonstrated how the ancient Egyptians made this concrete using techniques that are still applicable today. His team, which included mostly women, showed how the concrete was mixed and poured.
The chambers inside the pyramids were also built using this concrete before being covered with mud bricks, as shown in photographs. Supporting blocks were made of granite, a common practice in earlier constructions using limestone.
Conclusion
While the idea of restoring the pyramids to their former glory may seem appealing, it is important to recognize that the damage they have sustained is an integral part of their history. Instead of restoration, the focus should remain on the preservation of these ancient structures, ensuring they continue to tell the stories of their creators and the times in which they were built. Understanding and respecting the original construction methods ultimately provides a deeper appreciation for these incredible works of ancient engineering.