Israeli archaeologists have discovered a pyramid -shaped structure in the Judea desert, whose seniority, according to preliminary calculations, reaches 2,200 years. During all this time, the remains remained hidden and protected from time wear. Inside the pyramid, vestiges such as papiros with Greek writing, fabric and even weapons residues have been found.
“What we have here is one of the richest and most intriguing archaeological excavations ever found in the Judea desert,” said the project directors, belonging to the Israel antique authority. According to its first estimates, each stone that forms the probable pyramid is carved by hand and weighs hundreds of kilograms.
2,200 years ago, Judea desert was under the influence of the Hellenistic period. The region was dominated by the Ptolomeos and, subsequently, by the sealing empire. As a context, the Ptolomeos were the dynasty that came from General Ptolemy I Sóter, one of Alexander the Great collaborators. After the death of the Macedonian conqueror, Ptolemy took control of regions that today cover Egypt, Libya, Israel, Palestine and Lebanon.
A hidden pyramid in Judea desert
Eight years ago, the Israel antique authority undertook an operation to recover the archaeological vestiges of the Judea desert and protect them from deterioration and looting in the region. For this, archaeologists have used sophisticated tools that have allowed identifying key points to dig.
The probable pyramid is one of the most recent discoveries. Around this a camp has been established to extend the excavations for at least three more weeks. The original purpose of construction is still unknown, although some theories suggest that it could have served As a surveillance tower to protect commercial routes, the beginning of a tomb for someone important, or as a commemorative monument of a historical event.
The Zoser pyramid would have been built with an inner hydraulic system that allowed to raise a platform to bring material to the upper levels.
Pyramids are not common in the Judea desert, but the dating of the Hellenistic period and their deep link with the Egyptian people can grant clues about it.
“Already in the first week of excavation, volunteers have found written historical documents, exceptional bronze artifacts and old furniture remains that, thanks to the desert climate, have been preserved in incredible conditions. This site has great potential: every moment brings new findings, and we are full of expectation for what the coming weeks could reveal!” Israel.
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