*and don’t get me started on how amazing the Osireion (13) is.

From monumental structures that have endured thousands of years, the pyramids are undeniably some of the most spectacular architectural feats of the ancient world. These magnificent structures scattered across the globe, predominantly in Egypt, ceaselessly intrigue us. Their solid shapes, precise alignments, and the intricate details of their construction compel us to ponder over the audacious question: how were they built? This article explores various theories surrounding the construction of the pyramids, digging deep into scientific, historical, and social perspectives, each bearing a piece of this puzzle.

The roots of this discourse trace back to 27th century BCE when the first Pyramid, the step Pyramid of Djoser, was erected in Saqqara, Egypt (1). Since then, pyramids evolved significantly, culminating in the construction of the Great Pyramids of Giza in the 26th century BCE, known for their impressive size and perfectly aligned shapes (2). Such remarkable progression over a relatively short period necessitates understanding the pyramid builders’ challenges, their technological advancements, and socio-economic contexts.

There are primarily two types of theories that aim to elucidate the construction of Pyramids: construction methods and transportation theories. Construction theories encompass structural aspects such as planning, formwork, and the assembly of blocks (3). In contrast, transportation theories revolve around moving colossal stone blocks to the site (4). Interestingly, these theories often intersect, supporting, and complementing each other in the grand scheme of pyramid-building.

The Greeks were amongst the first who attempted to demystify the Egyptian Pyramids. Their accounts, though inspired by remarkable observation and logic, often conflated myth with reality. For instance, Herodotus, the Greek historian, wrote about machines made from short timber pieces used to raise the blocks, a claim with little archaeological corroboration (5). Later, Roman authors such as Vitruvius expanded upon Herodotus’s accounts by proposing a detailed description of the mechanical lever system (6). However, these explanations seem inadequate in explaining the precision and speed of the pyramids’ construction.

Modern theories on pyramid construction, rooted in scientific methodology, provide a more comprehensive explanation. French architect Jean-Pierre Houdin proposed a fascinating theory of an internal ramp. He suggests workers carried blocks using a spiralling ramp built inside the pyramid, which gradually ascended as the pyramid grew taller (7). Notably, such an internal ramp model would explain the smooth transportation of blocks to higher levels, thereby facilitating the construction process.

For transportation, some theorise about the potential use of sledges, lubricated with water, to reduce friction while dragging the stone blocks (8). The presence of sledge depictions in Egyptian tomb paintings and experimental archaeology testing lend weight to such theories.

Despite a plethora of scientific accounts and archaeological evidence, no singular theory fully explains the Pyramids’ construction. Most theories remain speculative, as there’s a dearth of explicit historical records describing the building process (9). Even Jean-Pierre Houdin’s theory, while plausible, awaits more tangible archaeological confirmation.

The socio-cultural backdrop of the pyramid era also plays an integral role in their construction. The pyramids were not merely burial tombs for royalty, but they represented the pinnacle of the social hierarchy and affirmed the divine status of the Pharaoh to the public eye (10). The labourers, often portrayed inaccurately as slaves, were more likely to be skilled workers, working within a complex societal system, perhaps incentivised by rations, shelter, or religious devotion (11).

“Forging a theory on the construction of pyramids is like trying to recreate a lost world”, stated Dr Zahi Hawass, Secretary-General of Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities (12). Hence, it is crucial to consider that while theories evolve and new ones emerge, we may never fully comprehend the vast magnitude of ingenuity, manpower, and resources mobilised in the construction of these silent sentinels of the past.

The construction of the pyramids remains an enigma, subtly reminding us of how these icons of antiquity can still keep secrets tightly sealed within their mammoth structures. However, with continued exploration and innovation, doors to deeper comprehension may open. As we muse over theories today, we not only further our understanding but also pay tribute to the exceptional skill of our ancient engineers. And perhaps, buried deep in the sands of time, lie more fascinating stories of human accomplishment, awaiting discovery.

References and Further Reading:

1. Lehner Mark, The Complete Pyramids, Thames & Hudson, 1997.
2. Romer, John, The Great Pyramid: Ancient Egypt Revisited, Cambridge University Press, 2007.
3. Dieter Arnold, Building in Egypt: Pharaonic Stone Masonry, Oxford University Press, 1991.
4. Denys A. Stocks, Experiments in Egyptian Archaeology: Stoneworking Technology in Ancient Egypt, Routledge, 2003.
5. Herodotus, The Histories, Translation by Waterfield Robin, Oxford University Press, 1998.
6. Vitruvius, Ten Books on Architecture, Translation by Rowland Ingrid, Cambridge University Press, 1999.
7. Jean-Pierre Houdin, Khufu: The Secrets Behind the Building of the Great Pyramid, Editions Dacosta, 2006.
8. Bonelli et al, The Friction of Wet and Dry Desert Sand, Physics Review Online, 2013.
9. Miroslav Verner, The Pyramids: The Mystery, Culture, and Science of Egypt’s Great Monuments, Grove Press, 2001.
10. Mark Lehner, Archaeology of an Image: The Great Sphinx of Giza, Yale University, 1991.
11. Zahi Hawass, Life and Death of a Pharaoh: Tutankhamun, National Geographic Society, 2005.
12. Zahi Hawass, quoted in “The Secret of the Great Pyramid”, Egypt Today, 2008.
13. The Osireion – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Osireion