Update on the Giza Plateau
Zahi Hawass has appeared in a recent article in Al-Ahram once again explaining his push to ‘clean up’ the Giza Plateau. He talks about the criticism the project has received from local camel operaters, who’s livelihoods depend on the tourists. Hawass explains that everyone benefits with the new system as the tourists are now in a better position to see the camel stables and so taking a camel ride is made easier, safer, and more accessible.
None of the horse and camel drivers are allowed inside the pyramid compound any longer. This system permits us to identify the camel drivers who try to take advantage of the tourists, because, now, for the first time, there is a Tourist Police office, an Antiquities office, and even an area to feed the animals, all near the stables.
At the same time, for those tourists who want to buy souvenirs and drinks, they will not be hassled by random individuals. It is my dream to clean up the Giza Plateau and return it to its pristine glory. I believe this project benefits everyone, even the camel and horse drivers, as well as those who sell souvenirs.
Hawass went on to report on the current state of the project with the implementation of the new track for electric cars now being 70 % complete.
A very interesting point of the piece was at the end where Hawass reports that a wooden floor is being constructed in front of the pyramid for the safety of the tourists. During the clearing and excavation the team uncovered evidence that demonstrates the method by which the pyramid of Menkaure was levelled as well as other evidence regarding its construction.
This would explain the heavy land moving activity that was seen on the plateau in front of Menkaure’s pyramid in May last year.
Dr Hawass also refers to the unfinished seated statue that was uncovered directly in front of Menkaure’s pyramid in February last year.
It now appears that the accidental discovery of this statue as well as the deep excavations witnessed on the east side of the pyramid last year were related to this leveling of the ground around the pyramid in preperation for the installation of the wooden platform.
It’s difficult to dig anywhere on the plateau without making a new discovery of some sort and it is always great news to hear of new evidence being uncovered, especially when it concerns the construction of the pyramids.
“I am certain that this project will bring back the mystery of the pyramids,
and all will benefit from it” – Zahi Hawass.
Sources:
Al-Ahram: Dig Days: Once again: camels and horses at the Pyramids
Photo Giza, Egypt by Macloo. Some rights reserved.
Photo of Menkaure’s pyramid by Todd. Some rights reserved.
Photo of the seated statue is a REUTERS/Egyptian Supreme Council Of Antiquities/Handout.
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If Mr. Hawass wants to return the Pyramids of Giza to their pristine glory, he’s got more work than even he can do in a lifetime. He can start by closing off the roads they’ve paved snaking around to the back and beside them. When I was there 30 years ago there were no paved roads around the site, and tourist buses were kept well back. Now they’re all over the place up there, and it’s a real shame.
As for the hassle, it will never go away.
I think it’s a good step in the right direction. I can attest to being harassed as well as smelling the constant aroma of camel dung and urine.
The skeptic in me though realizes it’s being done to better keep track of the operators of the camel and horse rides so the government can be assured of getting their cut.