The Ingenious Hydraulic Lift System Behind Egypt’s Oldest Necropolis
Dating back to the 27th century BCE, Pharaoh Djoser of the Old Kingdom’s Third Dynasty commissioned the iconic Step Pyramid of Djoser in Saqqara, Egypt. Standing at approximately 205 feet tall, this six-tiered pyramid was a marvel of ancient engineering. While traditional tools were used in its construction, a recent study suggests that a hydraulic lift system, powered by a long-lost lake nearby, played a crucial role.
Published in the journal PLOS One, researchers from France’s CEA Paleotechnic Institute uncovered evidence of a check dam structure near the Step Pyramid. This dam, designed to capture water and sediment, was likely part of a sophisticated water management system that powered the hydraulic lift mechanism used in the pyramid’s construction.
The hydraulic lift system of the Pyramid of Djoser utilized a series of compartments to filter water and facilitate the movement of massive stones during construction. This innovative approach, combined with the dam’s water treatment capabilities, showcases the advanced engineering skills of the ancient Egyptians. The researchers believe that this technology may have been used in other pyramids of the Old Kingdom, hinting at a more sophisticated civilization than previously thought.
This groundbreaking discovery sheds light on the ancient Egyptians’ innovative construction techniques and their mastery of hydraulic engineering. By further exploring these ancient sites, we may uncover even more secrets of this remarkable civilization.
