The Great Pyramid of Giza, more than 4,600 years old, has survived powerful earthquakes without significant damage. Researchers have just uncovered the principle behind this extraordinary resistance. Their study, published in the journal
Scientific Reports, shows that the shape and internal structure of the monument play a key role in absorbing seismic vibrations.
To understand this phenomenon, scientists installed vibration sensors at 37 different locations, both inside and outside the pyramid. They recorded ambient movements when no tourists were present. The result: vibrations within the pyramid are very uniform, around 2.0 to 2.6 hertz, while the surrounding ground vibrates at about 0.6 hertz. This frequency mismatch prevents the pyramid from resonating with seismic waves, thereby limiting damage.
The Pyramids of Giza.
Illustration image Pixabay Several architectural features contribute to this exceptional stability. The massive base, the solid limestone foundations, and the symmetrical geometry are major assets. But the researchers also highlighted the role of the "relieving chambers" located above the king's chamber. These spaces, originally designed to reduce the weight on the pharaoh's tomb, dampen vibrations that would otherwise travel up to the top of the pyramid.
Egyptian architects did not invent these techniques overnight. The study indicates that older pyramids show signs of experimentation, with different slopes and interior layouts. Each monument has its own vibrational signature, and the Great Pyramid represents the culmination of empirical knowledge built over centuries.
These same measurement methods could be applied to other Egyptian archaeological sites to assess their seismic vulnerability. Understanding how ancient builders made their constructions so resilient could even inspire modern architecture.