Emily Chan
The researchers pointed out that it displays features of a “check dam” that was meant for trapping sediment and water.
The structure is 1.2 miles long and 49 feet thick. It would’ve protected against floods and regulated the flow and quality of water.
Furthermore, the function of a monumental excavation called the “Deep Trench” in the southern part of the moat surrounding Djoser is also unexplained.
It measures around 1,312 feet long and 88 feet deep. Based on hydrological analyses and previous archaeological discoveries, the team argued that the compartments in the moat could have acted as a water treatment plant.
“Taken as a whole, the Gisr el-Mudir and the Deep Trench form a unified hydraulic system that enhances water purity and regulates flow for practical uses and vital needs,” said Landreau.
Finally, the interior of the pyramid is consistent with the implementation of a pulley mechanism that could raise and lower a platform with stones placed on it. The whole system would have reduced the workload of laborers.
More research is required to validate the hypothesis. For example, additional studies need to determine if there was enough water in the landscape to support a hydraulic lift.
Previously, evidence has shown that ancient Egyptians used hydraulics for building ports, constructing irrigation systems, and delivering materials.
