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Just north of modern-day Luxor, an important clue has been stumbled upon. For the first time, archeologists have discovered evidence of a sloped ramp with two sets of steps and numerous postholes on either side that was clearly used to help hoist blocks from a quarry via a sled. With the help of manpower and ropes, the wooden posts were used to leverage the sled uphill.
As per an announcement by Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities on Wednesday, it is simple yet clear evidence of a "unique system" to move and pull blocks. Ramps seem like an obvious answer to the question, and archeologists have long theorized that they were heavily relied on during the pyramid’s construction, but this is the first time that researchers have actually discovered physical evidence of their use.
As previous studies have shown, it’s likely that the ancient Egyptians used large sleds and ropes to pull the pyramid’s 2.5-ton building blocks and statues across the desert. It’s then likely that they poured a small amount of water across the sand to significantly reduces the sliding friction, a neat little trick that allowed the Egyptians to cut the number of workers needed by half.