Archaeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery within the Pyramid of Sahura, an ancient Egyptian structure built over 4,400 years ago for Pharaoh Sahure of the Fifth Dynasty. These newly found rooms, suspected by early excavators almost 200 years ago, were revealed as part of an extensive restoration project that aims to preserve the pyramid’s integrity and prolong its existence.
These newly accessible chambers, believed to have served as storage spaces, shed light on the architectural design of pyramids and provide valuable insights into their construction. Researchers from the University of Würzburg utilized advanced LiDAR imaging technology to create a precise floor plan of the antechamber, facilitating the conservation efforts.
Standing at an impressive 47 meters (155 feet) tall, the Pyramid of Sahura is situated in Abusir, the prominent necropolis serving as the primary burial ground for Fifth Dynasty pharaohs. This complex boasts an array of ancient Egyptian pyramids, including major royal structures, smaller pyramids, and even unfinished constructions.
Initially excavated in 1836 by British engineer John Shae Perring, the corridor leading to these newly discovered rooms had been blocked, damaged, and rendered inaccessible by debris. While early exploration efforts like Perring’s contributed to our understanding, they also caused unintended harm to the internal structure.
Distinctive for its rugged appearance compared to the more renowned Giza pyramids, the Pyramid of Sahura was originally characterized by smooth limestone casting stones. Recent discoveries within these ancient structures continue to unveil hidden passageways and secrets, enhancing our comprehension of how these extraordinary monuments were built. Earlier this year, three-dimensional imaging revealed concealed passages within Khufu’s Great Pyramid of Giza, further enriching our knowledge of ancient Egyptian engineering marvels.
