Topic: Ancient History

Researchers from Cairo University and TUM have discovered two hidden air-filled spaces inside the third-largest pyramid at Giza. This confirms a suspected secret entrance along the eastern side of the Menkaure pyramid.

Scientists have long been curious about the eastern face of the Menkaure pyramid, which is over 60 meters tall. A section of granite blocks appears unusually smooth and polished, similar to the known entrance on the north side. This led researcher Stijn van den Hoven to propose in 2019 that a second entrance might exist at this location.

As part of the ScanPyramids project, researchers used non-invasive techniques like ground-penetrating radar, ultrasound, and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) to examine the eastern facade. They detected two anomalies behind the polished surface, which were confirmed as air-filled cavities.

The two voids are located at depths of 1.4 meters and 1.13 meters behind the outer wall. One measures approximately 1 meter high and 1.5 meters wide, while the other is about 0.9 meters by 0.7 meters. The researchers used Image Fusion to combine all collected measurements and confirm the existence and dimensions of these hidden spaces.

The findings strengthen the hypothesis of another entrance in the pyramid. Christian Grosse, Professor of Non-destructive Testing at TUM, says that their testing methodology allows very precise conclusions to be drawn about the nature of the pyramid's interior without damaging the valuable structure.

Why It Matters

This discovery could help us better understand ancient Egyptian architecture and possibly even uncover new secrets about the pyramids. It also shows how advanced technology can be used to study historical structures without causing damage.

Key Facts

• Researchers from Cairo University and TUM discovered two hidden air-filled spaces inside the Menkaure pyramid
• The discovery confirms a suspected secret entrance along the eastern side of the pyramid
• The voids are located at depths of 1.4 meters and 1.13 meters behind the outer wall
• One measures approximately 1 meter high and 1.5 meters wide, while the other is about 0.9 meters by 0.7 meters

Key Terms

Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT)

A non-invasive technique that uses electrical currents to create images of the interior of a structure

Implications

This discovery could help us better understand ancient Egyptian architecture and possibly even uncover new secrets about the pyramids. It also shows how advanced technology can be used to study historical structures without causing damage.