Going beyond mud ramps at Giza

Just this afternoon, I was grumbling about the standard idea of how the Giza pyramids were built: mud ramps along which stone blocks were dragged and then dropped into place. Having been there, and having read many alternative theories on the subject of how and by whom the pyramids were constructed, I just don't think so the Big Mud Lug is the answer.

Here, however, is some news that takes the ramp method to the next level:


"The construction of the Great Pyramid 4,500 years ago by Khufu, a ruler also known as Cheops, has long befuddled scientists as to how its 3 million stone blocks weighing 2.5 tons each were lifted into place.

"Ending eight years of study on the subject, architect Jean-Pierre Houdin released his findings and a computerized 3-D mockup showing how workers would have erected the pyramid at Giza outside Cairo...

"According to Houdin's theory — shown in a computer model available at 3ds.com/khufu* — the builders put up an outer ramp for the first 140 feet, then constructed an inner ramp in a corkscrew shape to complete the 450-foot structure.

"Houdin also postulated that King's Chamber was hoisted into place through a system of counterweights. Houdin said he plans to verify his theories through non-invasive tests on site."

* You'll need a plugin I'd never heard of until now in order to see the renderings: 3D Life Player