Who built the pyramids of Egypt? A mystery that has intrigued for millennia
The pyramids of Egypt are one of the wonders of the ancient world, and their construction remains one of the greatest mysteries in history. How were these gigantic structures built with such precision, using only primitive tools? Over the centuries, several theories have emerged to try to explain this enigma. Let’s explore some of them!
I. Pyramids of Egypt: The Egyptian workforce
The theory most accepted by archaeologists is that the pyramids were built by a large workforce composed mainly of Egyptian peasants. During times of flooding of the Nile, when the lands were flooded and agriculture was interrupted, thousands of people were mobilized to work on the constructions. This theory is based on historical records and archaeological studies that reveal the existence of large camps and workshops near the pyramids, where the workers lived and produced the tools and materials needed for construction.
Furthermore, analyses of the bones of workers found near the pyramids indicate that they were well fed and received medical care, suggesting that they were not slaves but rather workers hired or obliged to provide services to the pharaoh. However, the organization and logistics required to coordinate a project of this magnitude remain a mystery.
II. Slave labor
Another popular theory, but less accepted by the scientific community, is that the pyramids were built by slaves. This idea arose in part due to the depiction of slaves on some Egyptian monuments and the association of slavery with large-scale construction projects in ancient times. However, archaeological evidence does not support this theory. As mentioned previously, studies of the workers’ bones indicate that they were well fed and cared for, which is not typical of slaves.
Furthermore, the construction of the pyramids required a high level of technical knowledge and skill, which would have been difficult to obtain from a workforce composed mainly of slaves, who were often subjected to very harsh working conditions.
III. Pyramids of Egypt: Aliens Helped
One of the most exotic and controversial theories about the construction of the pyramids is that they were built with the help of aliens. This idea, popularized by books and documentaries, suggests that extraterrestrial beings possessed advanced technology that allowed them to move and lift the enormous blocks of stone used in the construction of the pyramids.
However, there is no scientific evidence to support this theory. The pyramids may be an ingenious feat, but they follow principles of construction and engineering that are well understood by archaeologists. Furthermore, the idea that aliens visited Earth in the past and helped build monuments is based on speculation rather than hard facts.
IV. Advanced knowledge of astronomy
A more plausible and interesting theory is that the ancient Egyptians had an advanced knowledge of astronomy, which helped them orient the pyramids according to the celestial movements. This theory is based on the observation that the pyramids are aligned with the cardinal points and with specific stars, such as the North Star.
The Egyptians believed that the pharaoh was a living god and that, after death, he would become a star. By building the pyramids aligned with the stars, the Egyptians sought to ensure the pharaoh’s safe passage to the other world. This theory is supported by several archaeological and astronomical studies.
V. Mysteries still unsolved
Despite all the theories and research, the construction of the pyramids remains a mystery shrouded in fascination. The precision with which the stone blocks were cut and fitted together, the logistics required to transport these blocks over long distances, and the organization of such a large workforce are all questions that still challenge researchers.
It is important to emphasize that the construction of the pyramids was a complex and multifaceted undertaking, involving not only technical knowledge, but also religious and social beliefs. Over the centuries, many cultures and civilizations have built great monuments, but the pyramids of Egypt remain a symbol of the ingenuity and complexity of ancient societies.
Conclusion
The construction of the pyramids of Egypt is a mystery that has fascinated humanity for millennia. Although the most widely accepted theory is that the pyramids were built by a large workforce of Egyptian peasants, several other theories, such as the involvement of aliens and advanced knowledge of astronomy, continue to fuel the imagination.
Most importantly, the pyramids of Egypt remind us of the creative capacity and ingenuity of humanity, and that there is still much to be discovered about these marvelous structures.