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1 00:00:02,201 00:00:04,192 Mastrelli: The great pyramid. Mastrelli: The great pyramid.
2 00:00:04,201 00:00:07,639 The oldest and the largest of the three giant monuments The oldest and the largest of the three giant monuments
3 00:00:07,714 00:00:11,712 Which still rule cairo's skyline. Which still rule cairo's skyline.
4 00:00:11,721 00:00:16,919 481 feet tall, 2.3 million blocks, 481 feet tall, 2.3 million blocks,
5 00:00:16,994 00:00:20,159 And yet it is a tomb for just one man. And yet it is a tomb for just one man.
6 00:00:21,561 00:00:25,472 This is the greatest wonder and the greatest puzzle This is the greatest wonder and the greatest puzzle
7 00:00:25,481 00:00:27,319 Of the ancient world. Of the ancient world.
8 00:00:27,394 00:00:32,192 Now, two new developments may help solve its mysteries. Now, two new developments may help solve its mysteries.
9 00:00:32,201 00:00:36,199 First, a radical theory coming not from an archeologist, First, a radical theory coming not from an archeologist,
10 00:00:36,274 00:00:39,239 But from an engineer intent on understanding But from an engineer intent on understanding
11 00:00:39,314 00:00:42,039 How the pyramid builders worked. How the pyramid builders worked.
12 00:00:42,114 00:00:46,039 Second, the extraordinary find of a diary Second, the extraordinary find of a diary
13 00:00:46,114 00:00:51,312 Written by a man who oversaw a key part of its construction. Written by a man who oversaw a key part of its construction.
14 00:00:51,321 00:00:55,199 Together, they will help to decode the great pyramid. Together, they will help to decode the great pyramid.
15 00:00:57,714 00:01:01,559 For centuries, the mysteries of the past For centuries, the mysteries of the past
16 00:01:01,634 00:01:04,672 Have kept their secrets, Have kept their secrets,
17 00:01:04,681 00:01:09,639 But there are clues cast in gold, etched in stone, But there are clues cast in gold, etched in stone,
18 00:01:11,154 00:01:12,519 Written in blood. Written in blood.
19 00:01:16,201 00:01:17,919 We can unlock them. We can unlock them.
20 00:01:33,954 00:01:36,359 A very famous egyptian archeologist has a word A very famous egyptian archeologist has a word
21 00:01:36,434 00:01:38,039 For people who study pyramids For people who study pyramids
22 00:01:38,114 00:01:40,432 With a mix of pseudo-science and mysticism. With a mix of pseudo-science and mysticism.
23 00:01:40,441 00:01:43,039 He calls them pyramidiots. He calls them pyramidiots.
24 00:01:44,201 00:01:45,879 That's a tad harsh, That's a tad harsh,
25 00:01:45,954 00:01:47,872 Especially because when it comes to ancient mysteries, Especially because when it comes to ancient mysteries,
26 00:01:47,881 00:01:50,039 There's little doubt that the great pyramid, There's little doubt that the great pyramid,
27 00:01:50,114 00:01:52,272 Is the biggest mystery of them all. Is the biggest mystery of them all.
28 00:01:52,281 00:01:55,639 And despite centuries of study, there is still no agreement And despite centuries of study, there is still no agreement
29 00:01:55,714 00:01:59,712 On just how exactly this massive mausoleum was built. On just how exactly this massive mausoleum was built.
30 00:01:59,721 00:02:02,672 But now, an outside perspective has been brought to bear But now, an outside perspective has been brought to bear
31 00:02:02,681 00:02:04,432 On the question, On the question,
32 00:02:04,441 00:02:06,672 And insights generated are anything but fringeworthy, And insights generated are anything but fringeworthy,
33 00:02:06,681 00:02:11,239 In fact, they're blowing the lid off of pyramid studies. In fact, they're blowing the lid off of pyramid studies.
34 00:02:12,594 00:02:14,759 Peter james devotes his working life Peter james devotes his working life
35 00:02:14,834 00:02:16,319 To ancient buildings, To ancient buildings,
36 00:02:17,161 00:02:21,959 Not as an archeologist, but as an engineer. Not as an archeologist, but as an engineer.
37 00:02:22,034 00:02:24,599 He's employed by governments around the world He's employed by governments around the world
38 00:02:24,674 00:02:28,359 To help protect and preserve key monuments. To help protect and preserve key monuments.
39 00:02:28,434 00:02:30,512 It's a process that begins with working out It's a process that begins with working out
40 00:02:30,521 00:02:32,239 Just how they were built. Just how they were built.
41 00:02:33,481 00:02:36,352 James: As a builder, I can put myself into the shoes James: As a builder, I can put myself into the shoes
42 00:02:36,361 00:02:39,399 Of the overseer or the construction manager of the site Of the overseer or the construction manager of the site
43 00:02:39,474 00:02:41,312 And see how it was built. And see how it was built.
44 00:02:41,321 00:02:44,592 My objective is to find the form of construction, My objective is to find the form of construction,
45 00:02:44,601 00:02:48,679 To look at the blocks to see really how it was put together. To look at the blocks to see really how it was put together.
46 00:02:48,754 00:02:50,519 It's a building problem, It's a building problem,
47 00:02:50,594 00:02:53,039 Resolved by someone who knows something about building. Resolved by someone who knows something about building.
48 00:02:54,041 00:02:56,432 Mastrelli: The great pyramid is the only pyramid Mastrelli: The great pyramid is the only pyramid
49 00:02:56,441 00:03:00,272 To have tunnels above ground level, a series of shafts To have tunnels above ground level, a series of shafts
50 00:03:00,281 00:03:03,079 Leading to the central chamber where the pharaoh's body Leading to the central chamber where the pharaoh's body
51 00:03:03,154 00:03:04,519 Was intended to lie. Was intended to lie.
52 00:03:07,641 00:03:09,632 But it's the structure's sheer size But it's the structure's sheer size
53 00:03:09,641 00:03:12,119 Which always leaves visitors awestruck. Which always leaves visitors awestruck.
54 00:03:14,601 00:03:16,799 It's as tall as a 50 story building. It's as tall as a 50 story building.
55 00:03:18,594 00:03:22,919 It stood for 45 centuries and for 38 of them, It stood for 45 centuries and for 38 of them,
56 00:03:22,994 00:03:25,319 It was the tallest man-made structure on earth. It was the tallest man-made structure on earth.
57 00:03:28,921 00:03:32,359 Then there's the footprint, pick the great pyramid up, Then there's the footprint, pick the great pyramid up,
58 00:03:32,434 00:03:36,319 And drop it in manhattan and it would cover six city blocks. And drop it in manhattan and it would cover six city blocks.
59 00:03:39,241 00:03:40,839 James: Well, it's incredible that the size of this thing James: Well, it's incredible that the size of this thing
60 00:03:40,914 00:03:42,759 Is 230 meters square. Is 230 meters square.
61 00:03:42,834 00:03:45,719 Probably take me 15 minutes to walk around it. Probably take me 15 minutes to walk around it.
62 00:03:45,794 00:03:48,352 Mastrelli: James immediately identifies the method Mastrelli: James immediately identifies the method
63 00:03:48,361 00:03:50,239 By which the stones were chosen. By which the stones were chosen.
64 00:03:51,154 00:03:52,759 James: These slabs are obviously fairly large. James: These slabs are obviously fairly large.
65 00:03:52,834 00:03:56,592 The ones at the bottom are probably 2 1/2 tons, The ones at the bottom are probably 2 1/2 tons,
66 00:03:56,601 00:03:58,519 Maybe even three tons each. Maybe even three tons each.
67 00:03:58,594 00:03:59,959 Mastrelli: At first glance, Mastrelli: At first glance,
68 00:04:00,034 00:04:02,119 The pyramid may look like a simple, The pyramid may look like a simple,
69 00:04:02,194 00:04:04,352 Or be it huge construction. Or be it huge construction.
70 00:04:04,361 00:04:08,839 But around 2,500 bce, when this was built, But around 2,500 bce, when this was built,
71 00:04:08,914 00:04:11,319 It was cutting edge engineering. It was cutting edge engineering.
72 00:04:11,394 00:04:13,072 Naunton: One of the staggering things Naunton: One of the staggering things
73 00:04:13,081 00:04:16,112 About the egyptians' development of technology About the egyptians' development of technology
74 00:04:16,121 00:04:17,959 For building and architecture is that they went For building and architecture is that they went
75 00:04:18,034 00:04:21,312 Very, very quickly from relatively small, Very, very quickly from relatively small,
76 00:04:21,321 00:04:25,392 Unsophisticated buildings into full-scale, enormous, Unsophisticated buildings into full-scale, enormous,
77 00:04:25,401 00:04:28,439 Hugely sophisticated pyramids within a couple of centuries. Hugely sophisticated pyramids within a couple of centuries.
78 00:04:29,721 00:04:31,159 Mastrelli: About 100 years Mastrelli: About 100 years
79 00:04:31,234 00:04:33,719 Before work on the great pyramid started, Before work on the great pyramid started,
80 00:04:33,794 00:04:36,992 Even egypt's finest buildings were single story Even egypt's finest buildings were single story
81 00:04:37,001 00:04:38,319 And made of mud brick. And made of mud brick.
82 00:04:39,721 00:04:42,672 Then, one pharaoh decided to stack a series Then, one pharaoh decided to stack a series
83 00:04:42,681 00:04:45,199 Of these structures one on top of the other. Of these structures one on top of the other.
84 00:04:46,201 00:04:48,679 It became the step pyramid, It became the step pyramid,
85 00:04:48,754 00:04:51,392 The building james was originally called in The building james was originally called in
86 00:04:51,401 00:04:53,239 To help conserve, To help conserve,
87 00:04:53,314 00:04:56,199 And then the great pyramid came only two generations later. And then the great pyramid came only two generations later.
88 00:04:58,754 00:05:02,039 This means that the men who built this had no precedent This means that the men who built this had no precedent
89 00:05:02,114 00:05:06,039 To work from, no engineering textbook, and no manual To work from, no engineering textbook, and no manual
90 00:05:06,114 00:05:10,752 For how to organize what must have been a massive workforce. For how to organize what must have been a massive workforce.
91 00:05:10,761 00:05:13,552 James: It still amazes me, just the sheer scale of it, James: It still amazes me, just the sheer scale of it,
92 00:05:13,561 00:05:15,959 How they did the whole part, the surveying, How they did the whole part, the surveying,
93 00:05:16,034 00:05:17,959 The movement and the transporting of the blocks, The movement and the transporting of the blocks,
94 00:05:18,034 00:05:19,879 And the accuracy that they put them together. And the accuracy that they put them together.
95 00:05:19,954 00:05:21,639 It just is breathtaking. It just is breathtaking.
96 00:05:21,714 00:05:24,992 It is almost equivalent of us landing on the moon. It is almost equivalent of us landing on the moon.
97 00:05:25,001 00:05:27,319 Mastrelli: One way to understand this achievement Mastrelli: One way to understand this achievement
98 00:05:27,394 00:05:29,799 Is to look at the man for whom all this was done. Is to look at the man for whom all this was done.
99 00:05:31,161 00:05:34,512 The man destined to lie at the pyramid's heart, The man destined to lie at the pyramid's heart,
100 00:05:34,521 00:05:35,879 The pharaoh khufu. The pharaoh khufu.
101 00:05:37,554 00:05:41,479 Luckily, a recent discovery offers a firsthand account Luckily, a recent discovery offers a firsthand account
102 00:05:41,554 00:05:44,119 Touching directly on khufu's reign. Touching directly on khufu's reign.
103 00:05:44,194 00:05:46,512 Called the wadi al-jarf papyri, Called the wadi al-jarf papyri,
104 00:05:46,521 00:05:49,399 It was discovered in the ruins of an ancient port It was discovered in the ruins of an ancient port
105 00:05:49,474 00:05:51,079 On egypt's red coast. On egypt's red coast.
106 00:05:52,041 00:05:54,352 It's a four and a half thousand year-old diary It's a four and a half thousand year-old diary
107 00:05:54,361 00:05:56,159 Written by a man named merer. Written by a man named merer.
108 00:05:58,274 00:06:01,072 For veteran egyptologist, mark lehner, For veteran egyptologist, mark lehner,
109 00:06:01,081 00:06:03,839 These ancient documents are transformative. These ancient documents are transformative.
110 00:06:05,314 00:06:09,952 Lehner: These papyri are almost like an archeologist's dream Lehner: These papyri are almost like an archeologist's dream
111 00:06:09,961 00:06:12,112 Of, could I just stand back there, Of, could I just stand back there,
112 00:06:12,121 00:06:15,399 And see everything in action for five to 15 minutes? And see everything in action for five to 15 minutes?
113 00:06:15,474 00:06:19,552 It's almost opening a window like that on the everyday life It's almost opening a window like that on the everyday life
114 00:06:19,561 00:06:21,239 Of the pyramid builders of khufu. Of the pyramid builders of khufu.
115 00:06:21,314 00:06:23,952 Mastrelli: The newly-found papyri suggest that khufu Mastrelli: The newly-found papyri suggest that khufu
116 00:06:23,961 00:06:26,352 Held his country in an iron grip. Held his country in an iron grip.
117 00:06:26,361 00:06:29,959 Indeed, merer's diaries specify that all of his endeavors Indeed, merer's diaries specify that all of his endeavors
118 00:06:30,034 00:06:32,672 Were carried out in khufu's name. Were carried out in khufu's name.
119 00:06:32,681 00:06:35,312 Narrator: Day 26, the inspector merer and his team Narrator: Day 26, the inspector merer and his team
120 00:06:35,321 00:06:37,792 Transport stones to the pyramid of khufu. Transport stones to the pyramid of khufu.
121 00:06:37,801 00:06:39,239 They spend the night at the harbor... They spend the night at the harbor...
122 00:06:39,314 00:06:41,872 Day 27, they set off from the harbor of khufu Day 27, they set off from the harbor of khufu
123 00:06:41,881 00:06:43,479 Laden with stones... Laden with stones...
124 00:06:43,554 00:06:45,952 Mastrelli: Though it's 200 kilometers from giza, Mastrelli: Though it's 200 kilometers from giza,
125 00:06:45,961 00:06:49,399 The port at wadi al-jarf had just one purpose, The port at wadi al-jarf had just one purpose,
126 00:06:49,474 00:06:52,439 Aiding the great pyramid's construction. Aiding the great pyramid's construction.
127 00:06:52,514 00:06:54,519 Lehner: It's a port facility built by khufu, Lehner: It's a port facility built by khufu,
128 00:06:54,594 00:06:56,432 Used by khufu and then shut down, Used by khufu and then shut down,
129 00:06:56,441 00:06:57,879 And nobody ever used it again. And nobody ever used it again.
130 00:06:57,954 00:06:59,639 Mastrelli: Today, it's impossible to follow Mastrelli: Today, it's impossible to follow
131 00:06:59,714 00:07:01,312 The exact route The exact route
132 00:07:01,321 00:07:03,719 That merer and his crew took from wadi al-jarf That merer and his crew took from wadi al-jarf
133 00:07:03,794 00:07:06,519 To the great pyramid because, over the centuries, To the great pyramid because, over the centuries,
134 00:07:06,594 00:07:09,399 The path of the nile has altered dramatically. The path of the nile has altered dramatically.
135 00:07:09,474 00:07:12,279 Lehner: We don't know what the topography and geography Lehner: We don't know what the topography and geography
136 00:07:12,354 00:07:14,359 Of this area was at that time. Of this area was at that time.
137 00:07:14,434 00:07:17,872 But at some point, they're going to have to take canals But at some point, they're going to have to take canals
138 00:07:17,881 00:07:19,639 In order to get to the western branch In order to get to the western branch
139 00:07:19,714 00:07:22,272 Which would have flowed close to the giza plateau. Which would have flowed close to the giza plateau.
140 00:07:22,281 00:07:24,759 Mastrelli: However, thanks to merer's diary, Mastrelli: However, thanks to merer's diary,
141 00:07:24,834 00:07:27,399 We do know that a mere eight-mile journey We do know that a mere eight-mile journey
142 00:07:27,474 00:07:30,359 From the quarries of tura to the great pyramid and back From the quarries of tura to the great pyramid and back
143 00:07:30,434 00:07:32,679 Took three full days. Took three full days.
144 00:07:32,754 00:07:36,432 It also says they stayed overnight at a place identified It also says they stayed overnight at a place identified
145 00:07:36,441 00:07:40,039 Only as the shey of khufu, or khufu's harbor. Only as the shey of khufu, or khufu's harbor.
146 00:07:41,474 00:07:44,919 Egyptologist mark lehner believes that these details Egyptologist mark lehner believes that these details
147 00:07:44,994 00:07:48,599 In merer's timeline reveal a much bigger story, In merer's timeline reveal a much bigger story,
148 00:07:48,674 00:07:51,759 Fitting a theory he's developed over many years. Fitting a theory he's developed over many years.
149 00:07:53,874 00:07:56,199 Under pharaoh khufu, lehner believes, Under pharaoh khufu, lehner believes,
150 00:07:56,274 00:07:58,839 Giza was not just a river town, Giza was not just a river town,
151 00:07:58,914 00:08:01,519 It was the greatest international port of its time. It was the greatest international port of its time.
152 00:08:02,601 00:08:04,919 Drawing ships from across the region, Drawing ships from across the region,
153 00:08:04,994 00:08:07,799 Even though it's almost 100 miles from the ocean. Even though it's almost 100 miles from the ocean.
154 00:08:09,401 00:08:11,319 Lehner: I think the shey of khufu Lehner: I think the shey of khufu
155 00:08:11,394 00:08:15,479 Was the name of the major nile port right there at giza, Was the name of the major nile port right there at giza,
156 00:08:15,554 00:08:17,552 And the reason it takes merer and his men a whole day And the reason it takes merer and his men a whole day
157 00:08:17,561 00:08:19,239 To get from there up to the pyramid To get from there up to the pyramid
158 00:08:19,314 00:08:23,079 Is that the port was so big, so vast and so complex. Is that the port was so big, so vast and so complex.
159 00:08:24,361 00:08:27,479 Mastrelli: Climbing to the top of a nearby apartment block Mastrelli: Climbing to the top of a nearby apartment block
160 00:08:27,554 00:08:30,759 He can picture exactly where the ships came in. He can picture exactly where the ships came in.
161 00:08:32,521 00:08:34,359 Lehner: Well, I think khufu's harbor was right where we are. Lehner: Well, I think khufu's harbor was right where we are.
162 00:08:34,434 00:08:36,272 I'm standing on an 11-story building I'm standing on an 11-story building
163 00:08:36,281 00:08:37,959 That I think is exactly on the spot, That I think is exactly on the spot,
164 00:08:38,034 00:08:39,559 But it was a very big place. But it was a very big place.
165 00:08:39,634 00:08:42,112 This is only the northern part of the harbor, This is only the northern part of the harbor,
166 00:08:42,121 00:08:44,672 And the whole portage extended all the way And the whole portage extended all the way
167 00:08:44,681 00:08:47,712 Nearly a kilometer to the south. Nearly a kilometer to the south.
168 00:08:47,721 00:08:49,879 Mastrelli: Seen from mark lehner's perspective, Mastrelli: Seen from mark lehner's perspective,
169 00:08:49,954 00:08:53,079 Khufu's port was a hive of activity. Khufu's port was a hive of activity.
170 00:08:53,154 00:08:57,312 Lehner: All kinds of river craft would have docked here at giza, Lehner: All kinds of river craft would have docked here at giza,
171 00:08:57,321 00:09:01,312 Bringing protein in the form of cattle, sheep and goats, Bringing protein in the form of cattle, sheep and goats,
172 00:09:01,321 00:09:05,719 Carbohydrates in the form of grains, material for ropes, Carbohydrates in the form of grains, material for ropes,
173 00:09:05,794 00:09:07,552 Copper for the tools. Copper for the tools.
174 00:09:07,561 00:09:09,639 So, without boats you could not have built So, without boats you could not have built
175 00:09:09,714 00:09:11,472 The great pyramid. The great pyramid.
176 00:09:11,481 00:09:14,199 Mastrelli: If lehner is right, the immense infrastructure Mastrelli: If lehner is right, the immense infrastructure
177 00:09:14,274 00:09:17,719 Required for building a pyramid was clearly in place Required for building a pyramid was clearly in place
178 00:09:17,794 00:09:20,039 4,500 years ago. 4,500 years ago.
179 00:09:20,114 00:09:23,312 But infrastructure alone doesn't build pyramids, But infrastructure alone doesn't build pyramids,
180 00:09:23,321 00:09:24,879 That requires a plan. That requires a plan.
181 00:09:25,794 00:09:28,919 (dramatic music) (dramatic music)
182 00:09:28,994 00:09:31,232 I doubt it's news to anyone that the ancient egyptians I doubt it's news to anyone that the ancient egyptians
183 00:09:31,241 00:09:33,599 Used a writing system called hieroglyphs. Used a writing system called hieroglyphs.
184 00:09:34,514 00:09:36,839 And when they weren't carving them into stone, And when they weren't carving them into stone,
185 00:09:36,914 00:09:38,192 They were writing them down They were writing them down
186 00:09:38,201 00:09:40,479 On a kind of paper called papyrus. On a kind of paper called papyrus.
187 00:09:41,794 00:09:44,432 Okay, so it's not some super smooth vellom Okay, so it's not some super smooth vellom
188 00:09:44,441 00:09:46,672 But despite having a surface that's as rough But despite having a surface that's as rough
189 00:09:46,681 00:09:50,352 As a logging trail, it can still do a serviceable job. As a logging trail, it can still do a serviceable job.
190 00:09:50,361 00:09:52,912 Plus papyrus can last thousands of years Plus papyrus can last thousands of years
191 00:09:52,921 00:09:54,512 In the right conditions. In the right conditions.
192 00:09:54,521 00:09:55,959 So, its little wonder that it's given us So, its little wonder that it's given us
193 00:09:56,034 00:09:57,479 Some of our best insights Some of our best insights
194 00:09:57,554 00:09:59,519 Into how the great pyramid was built. Into how the great pyramid was built.
195 00:10:01,321 00:10:03,559 Today, it's impossible to stand Today, it's impossible to stand
196 00:10:03,634 00:10:05,559 Beneath the great pyramid of khufu, Beneath the great pyramid of khufu,
197 00:10:05,634 00:10:08,279 And not be awed by its immensity. And not be awed by its immensity.
198 00:10:08,354 00:10:10,039 But it's not a building to be judged But it's not a building to be judged
199 00:10:10,114 00:10:12,672 By outside appearances alone. By outside appearances alone.
200 00:10:12,681 00:10:15,312 Which is why egyptologist mark lehner Which is why egyptologist mark lehner
201 00:10:15,321 00:10:18,359 And engineer peter james have come together And engineer peter james have come together
202 00:10:18,434 00:10:20,239 To explore its insides. To explore its insides.
203 00:10:22,201 00:10:25,792 James wants to see what clues the interior will provide James wants to see what clues the interior will provide
204 00:10:25,801 00:10:27,759 As to how this structure was built. As to how this structure was built.
205 00:10:29,241 00:10:31,152 The access point used today, The access point used today,
206 00:10:31,161 00:10:33,719 Once deliberately hidden by the casing stones, Once deliberately hidden by the casing stones,
207 00:10:33,794 00:10:37,232 Is some 56 feet above ground. Is some 56 feet above ground.
208 00:10:37,241 00:10:39,159 It's believed that the original plan It's believed that the original plan
209 00:10:39,234 00:10:42,239 Was to place the king's body in an underground chamber. Was to place the king's body in an underground chamber.
210 00:10:45,321 00:10:47,319 But that idea changed. But that idea changed.
211 00:10:47,394 00:10:50,359 What was completed was an ascending passage What was completed was an ascending passage
212 00:10:50,434 00:10:54,359 Opening out onto this 28-foot tall grand gallery, Opening out onto this 28-foot tall grand gallery,
213 00:10:54,434 00:10:57,439 The last stop before the actual burial chamber. The last stop before the actual burial chamber.
214 00:11:00,601 00:11:02,839 Though it's high up in the center of the pyramid, Though it's high up in the center of the pyramid,
215 00:11:02,914 00:11:05,872 There are still more than 300 feet of masonry There are still more than 300 feet of masonry
216 00:11:05,881 00:11:08,279 Piled directly on top of it. Piled directly on top of it.
217 00:11:08,354 00:11:10,279 James: Absolutely stunning, from an engineering point of view, James: Absolutely stunning, from an engineering point of view,
218 00:11:10,354 00:11:12,832 Of how they managed to know how much width Of how they managed to know how much width
219 00:11:12,841 00:11:15,559 Could carry that much weight, because otherwise Could carry that much weight, because otherwise
220 00:11:15,634 00:11:18,832 The whole chambers squeeze in if you get that angle wrong. The whole chambers squeeze in if you get that angle wrong.
221 00:11:18,841 00:11:20,559 It's almost like a crude arch. It's almost like a crude arch.
222 00:11:21,481 00:11:22,752 Lehner: It's also a very good place Lehner: It's also a very good place
223 00:11:22,761 00:11:24,592 Where you can see the chiseling Where you can see the chiseling
224 00:11:24,601 00:11:27,559 Because see how he's just coming in with little strokes, Because see how he's just coming in with little strokes,
225 00:11:27,634 00:11:30,679 As opposed to the longer strokes in the face of the block, As opposed to the longer strokes in the face of the block,
226 00:11:30,754 00:11:33,079 Here at the seams they're taking great care. Here at the seams they're taking great care.
227 00:11:33,154 00:11:35,232 Mastrelli: The stones which line the gallery Mastrelli: The stones which line the gallery
228 00:11:35,241 00:11:39,559 Are cut with such care that they fit together perfectly. Are cut with such care that they fit together perfectly.
229 00:11:39,634 00:11:42,679 In effect, they form a seal. In effect, they form a seal.
230 00:11:42,754 00:11:43,559 James: And what was the function of this, mark? James: And what was the function of this, mark?
231 00:11:43,634 00:11:45,072 What would this be, What would this be,
232 00:11:45,081 00:11:46,912 Just a chamber going into or a corridor? Just a chamber going into or a corridor?
233 00:11:46,921 00:11:49,152 Lehner: Egyptologists don't really know. Lehner: Egyptologists don't really know.
234 00:11:49,161 00:11:51,472 One idea is it's a huge processional, One idea is it's a huge processional,
235 00:11:51,481 00:11:53,399 Even though it was never meant to be seen, Even though it was never meant to be seen,
236 00:11:53,474 00:11:56,519 It's a processional for the king to ascend It's a processional for the king to ascend
237 00:11:56,594 00:11:58,672 Even in the afterlife. Even in the afterlife.
238 00:11:58,681 00:12:00,519 It's a bit of a mystery to this day. It's a bit of a mystery to this day.
239 00:12:01,634 00:12:03,472 Mastrelli: Lehner and james move into the heart Mastrelli: Lehner and james move into the heart
240 00:12:03,481 00:12:04,919 Of the pyramid, Of the pyramid,
241 00:12:04,994 00:12:07,839 To the focus of the entire building project. To the focus of the entire building project.
242 00:12:08,841 00:12:11,159 This was khufu's resting place. This was khufu's resting place.
243 00:12:12,514 00:12:14,432 Lehner: So, peter, this is what it was all about, Lehner: So, peter, this is what it was all about,
244 00:12:14,441 00:12:17,479 All the building, all the infrastructure, All the building, all the infrastructure,
245 00:12:17,554 00:12:19,872 This granite box, This granite box,
246 00:12:19,881 00:12:22,512 Which is where the king was probably buried, Which is where the king was probably buried,
247 00:12:22,521 00:12:24,439 In this sarcophagus, In this sarcophagus,
248 00:12:24,514 00:12:26,919 Which is located at one end of the chamber, Which is located at one end of the chamber,
249 00:12:26,994 00:12:29,472 Right on the center axis of the pyramid Right on the center axis of the pyramid
250 00:12:29,481 00:12:31,239 To ensure his resurrection. To ensure his resurrection.
251 00:12:31,314 00:12:33,632 Mastrelli: It's thought that this box held the coffin Mastrelli: It's thought that this box held the coffin
252 00:12:33,641 00:12:38,112 Or sarcophagus that in turn held khufu's body. Or sarcophagus that in turn held khufu's body.
253 00:12:38,121 00:12:40,599 They have long since vanished. They have long since vanished.
254 00:12:40,674 00:12:43,232 But the very fact that it's made of granite, But the very fact that it's made of granite,
255 00:12:43,241 00:12:46,439 As are the walls, the floor and the ceiling, As are the walls, the floor and the ceiling,
256 00:12:46,514 00:12:50,639 Is once more testimony to the power of khufu's reach. Is once more testimony to the power of khufu's reach.
257 00:12:52,674 00:12:53,952 Lehner: This granite itself Lehner: This granite itself
258 00:12:53,961 00:12:56,992 Came from some 500 miles to the south, Came from some 500 miles to the south,
259 00:12:57,001 00:12:58,279 All from aswan. All from aswan.
260 00:12:58,354 00:12:59,952 James: Aswan. James: Aswan.
261 00:12:59,961 00:13:01,712 Lehner: And it was probably all worked initially, Lehner: And it was probably all worked initially,
262 00:13:01,721 00:13:04,839 In the initial shaping by pounding with pounding stones. In the initial shaping by pounding with pounding stones.
263 00:13:04,914 00:13:08,279 And then things like the sarcophagus were actually sawn And then things like the sarcophagus were actually sawn
264 00:13:08,354 00:13:11,552 With a copper blade and probably quartz sand. With a copper blade and probably quartz sand.
265 00:13:11,561 00:13:13,719 James: How long would it take you to form this box inside? James: How long would it take you to form this box inside?
266 00:13:13,794 00:13:15,159 Lehner: A very long time. Lehner: A very long time.
267 00:13:15,234 00:13:17,719 The king didn't care about human labor. The king didn't care about human labor.
268 00:13:17,794 00:13:19,479 Whatever it cost. Whatever it cost.
269 00:13:19,554 00:13:21,559 James: We really don't know what lies beyond these, James: We really don't know what lies beyond these,
270 00:13:21,634 00:13:24,432 What sort of structure is beyond that. What sort of structure is beyond that.
271 00:13:24,441 00:13:26,199 What have we really got behind there? What have we really got behind there?
272 00:13:26,274 00:13:29,472 What are we holding up with this huge, granite chamber? What are we holding up with this huge, granite chamber?
273 00:13:29,481 00:13:31,719 Mastrelli: From a construction standpoint, Mastrelli: From a construction standpoint,
274 00:13:31,794 00:13:34,199 This is part of what makes the great pyramid This is part of what makes the great pyramid
275 00:13:34,274 00:13:36,912 One of the strangest buildings on earth. One of the strangest buildings on earth.
276 00:13:36,921 00:13:41,072 The fact that less than one-tenth of 1% of its interior The fact that less than one-tenth of 1% of its interior
277 00:13:41,081 00:13:42,559 Is open space. Is open space.
278 00:13:43,561 00:13:45,399 Though some people have suggested Though some people have suggested
279 00:13:45,474 00:13:48,432 That there may be other chambers yet to be discovered That there may be other chambers yet to be discovered
280 00:13:48,441 00:13:52,112 Within the pyramid, lehner, like most archeologists Within the pyramid, lehner, like most archeologists
281 00:13:52,121 00:13:55,159 Believes that over 99% of its volume Believes that over 99% of its volume
282 00:13:55,234 00:13:57,959 Is comprised of stone blocks. Is comprised of stone blocks.
283 00:13:58,034 00:14:00,759 Lehner: I think there's a good probability that the pyramid, Lehner: I think there's a good probability that the pyramid,
284 00:14:00,834 00:14:03,919 Other than the chambers and passages we've been in is solid. Other than the chambers and passages we've been in is solid.
285 00:14:05,794 00:14:08,919 Mastrelli: And that for peter james, as an engineer, Mastrelli: And that for peter james, as an engineer,
286 00:14:08,994 00:14:12,039 Is the fact on which everything turns. Is the fact on which everything turns.
287 00:14:12,114 00:14:15,952 He's spotted a problem which undercuts every current theory He's spotted a problem which undercuts every current theory
288 00:14:15,961 00:14:17,719 About the pyramid's construction. About the pyramid's construction.
289 00:14:18,674 00:14:21,439 And it demands a radical new idea. And it demands a radical new idea.
290 00:14:23,794 00:14:26,432 Engineer peter james has built a career Engineer peter james has built a career
291 00:14:26,441 00:14:29,319 On working on how ancient buildings were constructed. On working on how ancient buildings were constructed.
292 00:14:30,274 00:14:33,479 Now, turning to look at the great pyramid in giza, Now, turning to look at the great pyramid in giza,
293 00:14:33,554 00:14:36,199 He's focused on something that doesn't quite add up. He's focused on something that doesn't quite add up.
294 00:14:37,881 00:14:40,912 It's generally agreed that the amount of limestone It's generally agreed that the amount of limestone
295 00:14:40,921 00:14:42,759 Needed to complete the pyramid Needed to complete the pyramid
296 00:14:42,834 00:14:45,839 Was about 95 million cubic feet. Was about 95 million cubic feet.
297 00:14:47,241 00:14:49,552 That's similar to the volume of stone That's similar to the volume of stone
298 00:14:49,561 00:14:51,319 Taken from the quarries. Taken from the quarries.
299 00:14:51,394 00:14:54,399 And that in turn is a major problem. And that in turn is a major problem.
300 00:14:56,281 00:14:58,352 There is no way of cutting square blocks There is no way of cutting square blocks
301 00:14:58,361 00:15:00,752 Like the ones we see in the pyramid Like the ones we see in the pyramid
302 00:15:00,761 00:15:03,919 Without producing vast quantities of waste. Without producing vast quantities of waste.
303 00:15:05,874 00:15:08,112 James: The local quarry could not possibly James: The local quarry could not possibly
304 00:15:08,121 00:15:12,199 Have given enough stone, in total, in this shape, Have given enough stone, in total, in this shape,
305 00:15:12,274 00:15:15,472 And to this exact size all the way through. And to this exact size all the way through.
306 00:15:15,481 00:15:18,352 It would not be possible, because removing the stone, It would not be possible, because removing the stone,
307 00:15:18,361 00:15:19,712 Cleaning it, shaping it and putting it there, Cleaning it, shaping it and putting it there,
308 00:15:19,721 00:15:21,879 There'd be an enormous waste factor. There'd be an enormous waste factor.
309 00:15:21,954 00:15:24,192 Probably up to maybe 70%. Probably up to maybe 70%.
310 00:15:24,201 00:15:27,079 Mastrelli: What that means by james' reckoning. Mastrelli: What that means by james' reckoning.
311 00:15:27,154 00:15:28,592 Is that if the pyramid really Is that if the pyramid really
312 00:15:28,601 00:15:30,912 Is a stack of blocks like these, Is a stack of blocks like these,
313 00:15:30,921 00:15:33,399 The quarry should be three times bigger. The quarry should be three times bigger.
314 00:15:35,401 00:15:39,232 Not only that, there should be a pile of waste somewhere Not only that, there should be a pile of waste somewhere
315 00:15:39,241 00:15:41,199 More than twice the size of the pyramid. More than twice the size of the pyramid.
316 00:15:42,114 00:15:44,359 So, either the pyramid is hollow, So, either the pyramid is hollow,
317 00:15:44,434 00:15:48,839 A structural impossibility, or something else is going on. A structural impossibility, or something else is going on.
318 00:15:49,714 00:15:52,832 Peter james finds his answer on the summit Peter james finds his answer on the summit
319 00:15:52,841 00:15:55,479 Of a smaller ruined smaller pyramid nearby. Of a smaller ruined smaller pyramid nearby.
320 00:15:56,681 00:15:58,439 (dramatic music) (dramatic music)
321 00:15:58,514 00:16:01,839 This was a tomb that khufu built for one of his wives. This was a tomb that khufu built for one of his wives.
322 00:16:05,961 00:16:07,999 Its insides are exposed, Its insides are exposed,
323 00:16:10,841 00:16:12,359 And what he's now standing on And what he's now standing on
324 00:16:12,434 00:16:15,799 Is not carefully cut stone but rubble. Is not carefully cut stone but rubble.
325 00:16:18,441 00:16:21,239 Still, we don't know what the great pyramid's core Still, we don't know what the great pyramid's core
326 00:16:21,314 00:16:23,072 Is made from. Is made from.
327 00:16:23,081 00:16:26,672 It's always been assumed that, like the parts we can see, It's always been assumed that, like the parts we can see,
328 00:16:26,681 00:16:29,799 It's made of stacked stone blocks. It's made of stacked stone blocks.
329 00:16:29,874 00:16:31,312 But putting himself But putting himself
330 00:16:31,321 00:16:33,239 In the position of the pyramid builders, In the position of the pyramid builders,
331 00:16:33,314 00:16:35,152 James comes to what he believes James comes to what he believes
332 00:16:35,161 00:16:37,279 Is the only logical solution, Is the only logical solution,
333 00:16:38,434 00:16:40,759 That these stones are just a shell That these stones are just a shell
334 00:16:41,961 00:16:44,199 And the core is simply rubble. And the core is simply rubble.
335 00:16:45,321 00:16:47,559 James: Who would possibly think of building James: Who would possibly think of building
336 00:16:47,634 00:16:49,792 This massive structure with blocks all the way through? This massive structure with blocks all the way through?
337 00:16:49,801 00:16:50,832 Just not necessary. Just not necessary.
338 00:16:50,841 00:16:52,519 Builders wouldn't do that. Builders wouldn't do that.
339 00:16:52,594 00:16:54,352 They would do the outer casing, do whatever they had to, They would do the outer casing, do whatever they had to,
340 00:16:54,361 00:16:56,839 Three or four courses of it, and everything else inside Three or four courses of it, and everything else inside
341 00:16:56,914 00:16:57,879 Would just be fill. Would just be fill.
342 00:16:58,834 00:17:00,759 This is how the pyramids were built. This is how the pyramids were built.
343 00:17:02,514 00:17:05,312 Mastrelli: The egyptologists' argument against this Mastrelli: The egyptologists' argument against this
344 00:17:05,321 00:17:07,472 Is that it fails to take into account Is that it fails to take into account
345 00:17:07,481 00:17:09,199 The egyptian's beliefs. The egyptian's beliefs.
346 00:17:11,314 00:17:13,239 Jeffreys: As an engineer, peter james Jeffreys: As an engineer, peter james
347 00:17:13,314 00:17:17,239 Takes a supremely practical line approach Takes a supremely practical line approach
348 00:17:17,314 00:17:18,759 To the construction of the pyramid. To the construction of the pyramid.
349 00:17:18,834 00:17:21,639 He insists that things have to be done He insists that things have to be done
350 00:17:21,714 00:17:23,239 With the minimum of effort. With the minimum of effort.
351 00:17:23,314 00:17:25,392 But in actual fact, some of the evidence we have, But in actual fact, some of the evidence we have,
352 00:17:25,401 00:17:27,232 For the giza pyramids at least, For the giza pyramids at least,
353 00:17:27,241 00:17:30,752 Shows that it's the exact opposite. Shows that it's the exact opposite.
354 00:17:30,761 00:17:33,959 Mastrelli: If khufu wanted the best for its own sake, Mastrelli: If khufu wanted the best for its own sake,
355 00:17:34,034 00:17:36,439 And if the builders viewed constructing the pyramid And if the builders viewed constructing the pyramid
356 00:17:36,514 00:17:40,119 As a religious act, then normal logic wouldn't apply. As a religious act, then normal logic wouldn't apply.
357 00:17:41,801 00:17:43,159 Jeffreys: The more work that's gone into it, Jeffreys: The more work that's gone into it,
358 00:17:43,234 00:17:44,599 The more effort that's gone into it, The more effort that's gone into it,
359 00:17:44,674 00:17:48,272 The more expense, if you like, in all terms The more expense, if you like, in all terms
360 00:17:48,281 00:17:53,199 That has gone into it, adds to the value of the structure. That has gone into it, adds to the value of the structure.
361 00:17:55,161 00:17:59,239 Mastrelli: But james persists, because he is coming to believe Mastrelli: But james persists, because he is coming to believe
362 00:17:59,314 00:18:02,759 That his way is the only way that the great pyramid That his way is the only way that the great pyramid
363 00:18:02,834 00:18:04,039 Could have been built. Could have been built.
364 00:18:05,394 00:18:08,592 The evidence says that it took between 20 and 30 years The evidence says that it took between 20 and 30 years
365 00:18:08,601 00:18:10,352 To build the great pyramid. To build the great pyramid.
366 00:18:10,361 00:18:14,432 But with an estimated 2.3 million blocks, But with an estimated 2.3 million blocks,
367 00:18:14,441 00:18:16,919 That could mean positioning one block That could mean positioning one block
368 00:18:16,994 00:18:21,919 Approximately every six minutes night and day for 25 years. Approximately every six minutes night and day for 25 years.
369 00:18:22,761 00:18:25,632 James: The ancient egyptians were ahead of their time, James: The ancient egyptians were ahead of their time,
370 00:18:25,641 00:18:28,119 But they were not miracle workers. But they were not miracle workers.
371 00:18:28,194 00:18:31,039 Mastrelli: So, james continues to develop his theory. Mastrelli: So, james continues to develop his theory.
372 00:18:32,361 00:18:35,159 He's now convinced that this single decision He's now convinced that this single decision
373 00:18:35,234 00:18:37,552 To use rubble instead of cut stone To use rubble instead of cut stone
374 00:18:37,561 00:18:39,799 Makes all the major problems go away. Makes all the major problems go away.
375 00:18:40,921 00:18:44,512 James: If the pyramid is full of small stones and rubble, James: If the pyramid is full of small stones and rubble,
376 00:18:44,521 00:18:48,432 You don't need an army of expert masons and stonemasons You don't need an army of expert masons and stonemasons
377 00:18:48,441 00:18:50,832 To build it, it could be done by semi-skilled people. To build it, it could be done by semi-skilled people.
378 00:18:50,841 00:18:52,592 Mastrelli: Most importantly, Mastrelli: Most importantly,
379 00:18:52,601 00:18:54,512 That rubble could easily be packed That rubble could easily be packed
380 00:18:54,521 00:18:57,152 Into whatever shape they wished. Into whatever shape they wished.
381 00:18:57,161 00:19:00,079 The core and the ramps would be one and the same. The core and the ramps would be one and the same.
382 00:19:02,034 00:19:04,759 As it went up, a pyramid built this way As it went up, a pyramid built this way
383 00:19:04,834 00:19:06,992 Would look more like a modern quarry Would look more like a modern quarry
384 00:19:07,001 00:19:08,799 Than any conventional building. Than any conventional building.
385 00:19:09,714 00:19:12,799 Put altogether, the theory works like this. Put altogether, the theory works like this.
386 00:19:14,674 00:19:17,319 The corners come first to make a perfect square. The corners come first to make a perfect square.
387 00:19:18,201 00:19:21,759 Then they join to form a curtain wall and the fill goes in. Then they join to form a curtain wall and the fill goes in.
388 00:19:22,921 00:19:25,799 A rubble ramp takes more blocks and more rubble A rubble ramp takes more blocks and more rubble
389 00:19:25,874 00:19:30,119 To the next level, and so it continues. To the next level, and so it continues.
390 00:19:30,194 00:19:33,079 It means that the vast bulk of the material, It means that the vast bulk of the material,
391 00:19:33,154 00:19:35,632 Including the white limestone cladding, Including the white limestone cladding,
392 00:19:35,641 00:19:38,432 Can be fed up the inside. Can be fed up the inside.
393 00:19:38,441 00:19:41,719 But some egyptologists are less than fully persuaded. But some egyptologists are less than fully persuaded.
394 00:19:41,794 00:19:45,639 Jeffreys: It's an ingenious idea but I don't see the proof Jeffreys: It's an ingenious idea but I don't see the proof
395 00:19:45,714 00:19:49,399 Or the evidence for these internal ramps that he proposes. Or the evidence for these internal ramps that he proposes.
396 00:19:50,354 00:19:51,639 Mastrelli: James's belief Mastrelli: James's belief
397 00:19:51,714 00:19:53,959 Is that the proof could be acquired, Is that the proof could be acquired,
398 00:19:54,034 00:19:55,879 But only at the cost of damaging But only at the cost of damaging
399 00:19:55,954 00:19:57,639 The world's most famous monument. The world's most famous monument.
400 00:19:59,634 00:20:01,479 James: I believe the internal ramps are still in the pyramid, James: I believe the internal ramps are still in the pyramid,
401 00:20:01,554 00:20:03,879 That if we were allowed to drill 30 or 40 meters That if we were allowed to drill 30 or 40 meters
402 00:20:03,954 00:20:07,312 Inside the pyramid we would have a complete guide Inside the pyramid we would have a complete guide
403 00:20:07,321 00:20:09,232 To what's inside. To what's inside.
404 00:20:09,241 00:20:12,279 Mastrelli: Given the pyramid's unique importance, Mastrelli: Given the pyramid's unique importance,
405 00:20:12,354 00:20:15,552 This is clearly not an option. This is clearly not an option.
406 00:20:15,561 00:20:17,799 Until we have the technology to scan Until we have the technology to scan
407 00:20:17,874 00:20:19,952 And see beneath these stones, And see beneath these stones,
408 00:20:19,961 00:20:22,919 There won't be a definitive answer. There won't be a definitive answer.
409 00:20:22,994 00:20:25,472 And the fact that we still can't say for sure And the fact that we still can't say for sure
410 00:20:25,481 00:20:28,672 How this structure went up must remain part How this structure went up must remain part
411 00:20:28,681 00:20:30,752 Of its fascination. Of its fascination.
412 00:20:30,761 00:20:33,559 Jeffreys: We can't see the interior of the great pyramid, Jeffreys: We can't see the interior of the great pyramid,
413 00:20:33,634 00:20:38,519 Except where the egyptians have created access into it. Except where the egyptians have created access into it.
414 00:20:38,594 00:20:40,592 Mastrelli: And does what james is proposing Mastrelli: And does what james is proposing
415 00:20:40,601 00:20:43,519 Make khufu's achievements any less remarkable? Make khufu's achievements any less remarkable?
416 00:20:44,361 00:20:46,039 Naunton: I think however they did it, Naunton: I think however they did it,
417 00:20:47,401 00:20:49,152 What is most impressive is that they did, What is most impressive is that they did,
418 00:20:49,161 00:20:50,519 And that it's still there. And that it's still there.
419 00:20:50,594 00:20:51,879 So, I would say no whether it's rubble So, I would say no whether it's rubble
420 00:20:51,954 00:20:53,319 Or solid, solid blocks. Or solid, solid blocks.
421 00:20:53,394 00:20:54,919 What's impressive is that they achieved What's impressive is that they achieved
422 00:20:54,994 00:20:55,799 What they intended to achieve. What they intended to achieve.
423 00:20:57,154 00:21:01,952 Mastrelli: Around 2566 bce khufu died. Mastrelli: Around 2566 bce khufu died.
424 00:21:01,961 00:21:04,759 His body was transported up the nile, His body was transported up the nile,
425 00:21:05,794 00:21:07,879 And when the pyramid was sealed, And when the pyramid was sealed,
426 00:21:07,954 00:21:09,719 The greatest building project The greatest building project
427 00:21:09,794 00:21:12,239 In the ancient world was complete. In the ancient world was complete.
428 00:21:13,081 00:21:15,479 Lehner: I've been convinced that khufu's architects Lehner: I've been convinced that khufu's architects
429 00:21:15,554 00:21:18,759 Stood right here to plan the building of the great pyramid Stood right here to plan the building of the great pyramid
430 00:21:20,114 00:21:22,519 Because of the opportunities this site offered Because of the opportunities this site offered
431 00:21:22,594 00:21:24,359 For a major nile port. For a major nile port.
432 00:21:25,314 00:21:28,599 The canal would've fed into the great basins of giza The canal would've fed into the great basins of giza
433 00:21:28,674 00:21:32,119 With deliveries from the levant, granite from aswan. With deliveries from the levant, granite from aswan.
434 00:21:33,721 00:21:36,432 This was a very busy bustling port. This was a very busy bustling port.
435 00:21:36,441 00:21:39,999 It would've been truly the major port city of its time. It would've been truly the major port city of its time.
436 00:21:42,361 00:21:44,352 Mastrelli: Of the seven wonders of the ancient world, Mastrelli: Of the seven wonders of the ancient world,
437 00:21:44,361 00:21:46,519 There's only one that still endures, There's only one that still endures,
438 00:21:46,594 00:21:48,599 The great pyramid of khufu. The great pyramid of khufu.
439 00:21:48,674 00:21:51,559 Whether it helped him reach his goal of immortality Whether it helped him reach his goal of immortality
440 00:21:51,634 00:21:53,959 Is unknowable, but we can be sure of this, Is unknowable, but we can be sure of this,
441 00:21:54,034 00:21:56,359 Khufu's pyramid has memorialized Khufu's pyramid has memorialized
442 00:21:56,434 00:21:59,399 All of ancient egypt for millennia. All of ancient egypt for millennia.