Egypt’s oldest pyramid has been opened to travelers for the first time in almost a century following preservation projects to ensure the structure wouldn’t collapse.
The Pyramid of Djoser dates back to 2,600s BCE and is located in Saqqara near Memphis. The 200-foot building is believed to be the world’s first pyramid and the oldest structure that still exists.
Built entirely from stone, the ancient structure, which is believed to be the tomb of King Djoser, began collapsing as the foundation became weaker over thousands of years.
To ensure people’s safety, the pyramid was shut down in the 1930s. Now, 90 years later, it is once again open to public following preservation works of a British engineering company called Cintec.
As the company’s director, Peter James, explained, his team has begun working on the pyramid’s renovation in 2011 whereas they needed almost a decade to ensure it was once again safe for visits.
“It really was extremely, extremely, dangerous,” Mr. James said as he spoke of the project to The Times.
The Djoser step pyramid came to life during the Third Dynasty of Egypt, whereas its designer, Egyptian chancellor Imhotep, is believed to be one of the world’s first architects.
“We are in awe as to how he was able to create this structure, which has remained standing for 4,700 years,” the country’s minister for tourism and antiquities, Khaled al-Anani, expressed.
What are your thoughts on this news? Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to SHARE this post with your family and friends and follow us on Facebook for more news and stories!
Replaced!