Chapter 1: The Mykerinos Pyramid Renovation

The renovation of the Mykerinos Pyramid, the third-largest tomb on the Giza Plateau, has commenced, drawing sharp criticism from various quarters. Detractors compare this endeavor to efforts to straighten the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Mykerinos (or Menkaure) was a notable ruler during Egypt's Old Kingdom era (2686–2181 BCE), a time marked by the construction of many iconic pyramids. To this day, several of these monumental structures remain, with the Giza Plateau housing three prominent tombs. Among them, Mykerinos's pyramid stands out, often featured in postcards showcasing Egypt's rich history. The Egyptian Antiquities Service has launched a renovation initiative for this ancient tomb.

Who Was Mykerinos?

Mykerinos's history is largely derived from Greek accounts, written centuries after his reign. These sources describe him as a just and devout leader who, upon hearing a prophecy of his impending death, chose to indulge in nightly festivities to extend his enjoyment of life. His pyramid, originally 65 meters tall with a base measuring 102 by 104 meters, was once referred to as "Menkaure is divine."

Current State of the Pyramid

In January, Mostafa Waziri, head of Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities, announced the project to renovate the base of the Mykerinos pyramid, claiming it would be "the project of the century" and a "gift to the world in the 21st century." This three-year initiative aims to showcase the pyramid in its original form, as constructed by the ancient Egyptians.

What Does the Renovation Entail?

The pyramid is relatively well-preserved compared to its larger counterparts, Khafre and Khufu. However, it lacks its original outer casing, which was made from local limestone of variable quality. To enhance their appearance, these pyramids were originally covered with high-quality limestone sourced from quarries across the Nile or, in Mykerinos's case, granite.

The limestone used in the original facing was smooth and less porous, creating a visually stunning effect that allowed the pyramids to shimmer in the sunlight thousands of years ago. The renovation plans involve using granite, which is still partially visible, to restore the pyramid's exterior.

The Backlash Against the Renovation

The announcement of the renovation ignited a heated debate online. Egyptologist Dr. Monica Hanna expressed her disapproval, questioning the need for such alterations and emphasizing the importance of adhering to conservation principles. Meanwhile, Dr. Salima Ikram, a distinguished researcher, suggested that documenting the fallen blocks was a worthwhile endeavor, raising the question of whether reassembly should occur without adding new materials.

In video footage shared online, archaeologists are seen excavating at the pyramid's base, possibly searching for ancient blocks that have shifted over time. Current conservation philosophies emphasize minimal intervention, focusing on preserving the structure rather than reconstructing it.

The first video elaborates on the backlash surrounding the renovation of the Mykerinos pyramid, highlighting differing opinions among experts and the potential implications for Egypt's cultural heritage.

The second video discusses whether the renovation project is a "project of the century" or merely a misguided effort, showcasing various perspectives on the ongoing debate.

Chapter 2: A New Era for Ancient Monuments

Greece has unveiled a new tourist destination: a palace where Alexander the Great was crowned, underlining the enduring legacy of one of history's most significant leaders.

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