Fact Check: Are structures under the pyramid

Are Structures Under the Pyramids of Giza?

Introduction

Recent claims have surfaced regarding the discovery of significant structures beneath the Pyramids of Giza, specifically the Pyramid of Khafre. Reports suggest that a team of Italian scientists has identified eight massive hollow cylinders extending deep into the ground. This assertion has sparked interest and debate within both the scientific community and the public. The nature and validity of these claims, however, remain contentious.

What We Know

1. Discovery Claims: According to a report from Greek Reporter, a team of Italian scientists claims to have discovered eight massive hollow cylinders beneath the Pyramid of Khafre, which they describe as "massive columns" extending deep into the earth 1.

2. Anomalies Detected: The Smithsonian Magazine reported on an underground anomaly detected near the Great Pyramid, identified through non-invasive archaeological techniques. This anomaly is described as being part of a royal graveyard but does not confirm the existence of large structures 2.

3. Radar Findings: The New York Post cites scientists who claim to have found five room-like structures beneath the pyramids using synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology 3. This method is known for its effectiveness in subsurface imaging, but the specifics of the findings remain vague.

4. Skeptical Perspectives: Snopes has published an article stating that there is no credible evidence supporting the existence of vast underground structures beneath the pyramids, suggesting that many claims are exaggerated or unfounded 4.

5. Conflicting Reports: The Jerusalem Post discusses the use of SAR to identify eight vertical cylinder-shaped structures, which they describe as shafts extending approximately 2,100 feet into the ground 6. However, the specifics of these findings and their implications are not fully detailed.

6. Expert Debate: Euronews highlights a growing debate among Egyptologists regarding the claims of an "underground city" beneath the pyramids. The discussion centers around the interpretation of radar images and the validity of the claims made by the researchers 7.

7. Additional Findings: Science Alert reports on a large, two-part structure revealed through ground-penetrating radar and electrical resistivity tomography near the Great Pyramid, but again, the nature and purpose of this structure remain unclear 9.

Analysis

The claims surrounding the discovery of structures beneath the Pyramids of Giza are met with a mix of excitement and skepticism.

• Source Reliability: The sources vary in credibility. Academic and peer-reviewed publications would provide the most reliable information, but many of the current claims are reported by media outlets with varying degrees of journalistic rigor. For instance, while the Smithsonian and Science Alert are generally reputable, outlets like the New York Post and Greek Reporter may prioritize sensationalism over accuracy.

• Methodological Concerns: The use of SAR and ground-penetrating radar is well-established in archaeology, but the interpretation of such data can be subjective. The lack of detailed methodology in many reports raises questions about the validity of the findings. For example, while SAR can reveal subsurface structures, it does not provide definitive evidence of their size or purpose without further excavation and analysis.

• Conflicts of Interest: Some sources may have inherent biases or agendas. For example, sensational claims can drive traffic and increase visibility for certain media outlets, which may lead to overstated reports. Additionally, researchers may have personal or institutional interests in promoting their findings, which could color their interpretations.

• Lack of Consensus: The scientific community appears divided on the validity of these claims. While some researchers assert the existence of significant structures, others caution against jumping to conclusions without further evidence. This division highlights the need for more comprehensive studies and peer-reviewed research to substantiate any claims.

Conclusion

Verdict: Unverified

The claims regarding the existence of structures beneath the Pyramids of Giza remain unverified due to a lack of concrete evidence and the presence of conflicting reports. Key evidence includes assertions from various media outlets about the discovery of hollow cylinders and anomalies detected through radar technology. However, these claims are often vague, lack detailed methodology, and are met with skepticism from credible sources like Snopes, which emphasizes the absence of credible evidence supporting such assertions.

It is important to note that while some radar findings suggest the possibility of underground structures, the interpretations of these results are not universally accepted within the scientific community. The ongoing debate among experts indicates that further investigation and peer-reviewed research are necessary to draw any definitive conclusions.

Readers should be aware of the limitations in the available evidence and the potential biases in reporting. As such, it is crucial to critically evaluate information and remain cautious about accepting sensational claims without substantial proof.

Sources

1. Greek Reporter. "Giant Structures Found Beneath the Pyramids of Giza? Examining the ..." Link
2. Smithsonian Magazine. "Scientists Are Investigating a Puzzling Underground 'Anomaly' Near the ..." Link
3. New York Post. "'Vast underground city' found below Egypt's Giza pyramids: scientists" Link
4. Snopes. "No credible evidence supports claims of vast underground structures ..." Link
5. Jerusalem Post. "Researchers say they used SAR to find vast city beneath ..." Link
6. Euronews. "Going underground: Experts clash over 'hidden city' beneath Egypt ..." Link
7. Science Alert. "Mysterious 'Anomaly' Buried Near Giza Pyramids Baffles Archaeologists" Link