The Pyramids of Giza continue to fascinate and reveal new mysteries: that of Menkaure was perhaps more complex than expected, as some anomalies detected by a research group fromCairo University (Egypt) and of Technical University of Munich (Germany) could indicate the presence of another entrance previously unknown.
These immense and mysterious constructions are one of the wonders of the ancient world and continue to be the subject of studies and research: in December 2024, just to cite a recent example, a study led by ITMO University (Russia) I had proven that the structure is capable of concentrate electromagnetic energysuggesting a technological innovation that could inspire future developments.
Now the researchers, as part of the project ScanPyramidsthey identified two hidden anomalies in the third largest pyramid of Giza, that of Menkaurewhich could be explained by a possible entrance at this point, on the eastern side of the structure.
The structure of the granite blocks on the eastern side of the pyramid, over 60 meters high, has perplexed researchers for some time: the stones are in fact extraordinarily smooth over an area of about four meters high and six meters wide, and such smooth stones are otherwise only found in what is currently the only entrance to the pyramid, on the north side.
The investigations, conducted with radar, ultrasound and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), demonstrate in particular theexistence of two cavities filled with air under the eastern façade, and this is the first time that structural anomalies of this type have been identified in this area of the building.
The two air-filled anomalies are located at a depth of 1.4 meters and 1.13 meters behind the external facade, measuring 1 meter high by 1.5 meters wide and 0.9 meters by 0.7 meters respectively. Such a precise determination of air-filled voids is only possible by combining all measurement data. The image fusion method used was decisive in confirming the discovery.
After the important validation of a hidden corridor in the Pyramid of Cheops in 2023, ScanPyramids once again managed to make an important discovery in Giza – reports Christian Grosse, co-author of the research – The testing methodology we have developed allows us to draw very precise conclusions about the nature of the interior of the pyramid without damaging the precious structure. The hypothesis of another entry is very plausible and our results bring us considerably closer to confirming it
Confirmation which, of course, requires further investigation.
The work was published on NDT & E International.
Sources: Technical University of Munich / NDT & E International
