Egyptologists Alarmed by Mismanagement Issues at Great Pyramid
Recently, a video capturing construction workers using tools like a hammer and chisel on the stones of the Great Pyramid of Giza went viral on social media, sparking outrage and concerns about the preservation of this ancient wonder. The incident, which took place at the 4,600-year-old UNESCO World Heritage site, raised questions about the oversight and protection of Egypt’s rich archaeological legacy.
Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities Responds
The video, filmed by tourists, caused a stir as it circulated online, leading to widespread speculation about the potential damage inflicted on the iconic pyramid. However, officials from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities were quick to address the situation, reassuring the public that the ancient monument remained unharmed. They explained that the workers were actually removing construction materials added nearly two decades ago to extend power to the pyramids, and not causing any harm to the original structure.
Ayman Ashmawi, the head of the Ancient Egyptian Antiquities Sector, highlighted that the operation was carried out by a private company without the supervision of antiquities inspectors or restoration experts, raising further concerns about the lack of oversight in such sensitive archaeological sites.
Political Response and Public Outcry
The incident prompted MP Amira Abu Shoka to take action, filing an urgent motion in the Egyptian Parliament to demand accountability from Sherif Fathy, the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities. In her statement, Abu Shoka expressed her dismay at the negative impact the video had on Egypt’s tourism reputation and called for a thorough explanation of the events captured in the footage.
In response to the public outcry, Minister Fathy promised to launch an investigation into the matter, emphasizing that the construction work shown in the video was part of a project to install a new lighting system and involved the removal of modern materials, not ancient stones. Despite these assurances, the controversy surrounding the incident continued to escalate, with many calling for stricter adherence to UNESCO regulations and the Venice Charter to protect ancient sites.
Expert Insights and Concerns
Renowned Egyptologist Monica Hanna voiced her concerns about the ongoing mismanagement of Egyptian heritage, citing a controversial renovation plan for the pyramid of Menkaure that was ultimately halted due to international backlash. Hanna’s remarks underscored the delicate balance between modern development and the preservation of historical sites, urging authorities to prioritize the protection of these ancient treasures.
As the public awaited the opening of a new visitor center at Giza as part of a larger renovation project costing over 1 billion Egyptian pounds, concerns grew about the potential impact of extensive development on the Giza Plateau. Professor Salima Ikram, an expert in archaeology, warned against hasty construction work near the pyramids, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring and preservation efforts to safeguard these iconic structures for future generations.
In conclusion, the incident at the Great Pyramid serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced in balancing modernization with the preservation of ancient heritage. As Egypt continues to navigate the complexities of managing its rich archaeological legacy, it is imperative that all stakeholders work together to ensure the sustainable protection of these invaluable historical sites.
