Egyptian authorities have decided to cancel a controversial plan to renovate the pyramid of Menkaure, the smallest of the three main pyramids of Giza, with granite blocks that have been lying around its base for thousands of years. The plan, which was announced last month by the secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, Mostafa Waziri, was met with strong opposition from experts and the public, who feared that it would damage the integrity and authenticity of the ancient monument.
The plan was rejected by the Menkaure Pyramid Review Committee, which consists of prominent archaeologists, architects, and engineers, who unanimously objected to the reinstallation of the granite casing blocks. The committee said that the blocks were not original to the pyramid, and that their exact position and function were unknown. The committee also said that using cement to attach the blocks would harm the structure and appearance of the pyramid.
Pyramid of Menkaure is one of the seven wonders of the world
The pyramid of Menkaure, which was built around 2500 BC, is one of the seven wonders of the world, and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Giza pyramid complex. The pyramid, which stands at 65 meters high, was originally covered with fine white limestone and granite, but most of these casing stones were removed and reused in later constructions.
The pyramid is the tomb of Menkaure, the fifth king of the fourth dynasty of ancient Egypt, who ruled for 18 years. The pyramid is also known for its three subsidiary pyramids, which are believed to belong to Menkaure’s wives and relatives. The pyramid complex also includes a mortuary temple, a valley temple, and a causeway.
Zahi Hawass assures that the pyramids of Giza are safe
The head of the Menkaure Pyramid Review Committee, Zahi Hawass, who is also a renowned Egyptologist and former minister of antiquities, assured the public that the pyramids of Giza are safe, and that no one can touch them without proper studies and approvals. He said that he had received many calls and messages from people who were worried about the fate of the pyramids, and that he wanted to calm their fears.
Hawass said that the committee’s decision was based on scientific and professional grounds, and that any work on the pyramids must be done with utmost care and respect. He also said that the committee was open to other proposals and suggestions that would enhance the preservation and presentation of the pyramids, as long as they were in line with the international standards and regulations.
