Ancient Egypt is filled with mysteries that compelled scientists to look further into. However, with more discoveries comes more perplexity, as noted by the Archaeologist. While several structures and artifacts have already been uncovered, some of these have especially left scientists impressed and terrified. Here are some of them.
Hidden Room in Great Pyramid of Giza
According to the Smithsonian Magazine, researchers were able to uncover a hidden room in the Great Pyramid of Giza by using cosmic-ray imaging. The space is situated just above the entrance of the structure. While many questions regarding the corridor's purpose remain unanswered, the findings could help kick start further research into mysterious chambers inside structures like these.
Sekhmet Statues
As per the American Research Center in Egypt, Sekhmet, which is the goddess with a lion head, is among the most common deities in global Egyptian collections. Some think that the Amenhotep II Sekhmet statues reach over 730. However, it remains a mystery why the king would spend a large amount of resources to come up with many statues.
Meteorite Jewelry
A string full of iron beads was found in 1911 in a predynastic cemetery close to el-Gerzeh. The Guardian notes that the iron beads actually consisted of meteorite metals, specifically iron-nickel alloy. There were also other elements, such as phosphorus and cobalt, that helped prove the source.
The iron beads were made using a different method compared to other beads in the necklace. Archaeologists observed that these ancient jewelers had a deep understanding of the material they used.
Serapeum of Saqqara
The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities notes that the Serapeum of Saqqara is the tomb of consecrated Apil bulls that were linked to the Ptah deity. As per the Ancient Code, the labyrinth houses 25 stone boxes that weigh 70 to 100 tons each. While the builders of these boxes may have had incredible expertise in mathematics and geometry, the great precision has left archaeologists baffled by how these ancient builders were able to do it.
Silver Pharaoh
In 1940, the silver pharaoh Psusennes I was found buried in a fully silver sarcophagus. Ancient Origins notes that, while gold was abundant across ancient Egypt, silver was considered more valuable due to importation requirements. Psusennes I's silver coffin, thus, serves as a testament to how powerful and wealthy he was.
Dendera Light
As per Ancient Origins, the Dendera light can be found on three stone reliefs in the Dendera temple. At first glance, it may seem like a bulb that looks like a Crookes tube. Now, according to Ancient Origins, it is easier to see how the many symbols in the Dendera Light are linked with Egyptian mythology. Most Egyptologists think that the Dendera light depicts the sun deity emerging out of a lotus flower.
Electromagnetic Features of Great Pyramid of Giza
As per Phys, a study revealed that the Great Pyramid of Giza could concentrate electromagnetic energy inside its chambers and under the base. Their findings could be helpful in practical applications, such as solar cells and nanosensors.
Saqqara Bird
By the end of the 19th century, an archaeological project discovered a bird-shaped wooden artifact inside a 200 B.C. Saqqara tomb. Experts have agreed that the Saqqara bird piece was distinct and that it was not a simple toy but that it may have had aerodynamic importance.
Hidden Saqqara Tunnels
Archaeologists have discovered shafts and tunnels hidden inside the step pyramid of Djoser. Live Science reports that the tunnels span 3.5 miles and offer great protection. Egyptologist Reg Clark mentioned that it was almost impossible for robbers to arrive at the burial chamber by digging from the top. However, later evidence revealed that more mummies were buried inside the burial chamber of Djoser.
Pyramid's Mathematical Accuracy
According to the Department of Mathematics at Hansraj College, the mathematical constant Pi may have been incorporated into the Great Pyramid of Giza's design. However, such a value was not yet discovered during this time, leaving specialists baffled by the accuracy. Overall, the dimensions of the colossal structure suggest that the ancient Egyptians could have used the royal cubit and Pythagoras triangle.
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