Outrage is escalating regarding construction activities at the Great Pyramids of Giza, with fears that improper handling could damage this iconic monument. Recent threats to Egypt's cultural heritage, including looting and vandalism, have compounded worries about preservation.
On November 17, a video surfaced showing workers using chisels and hammers on the ancient stones of the pyramid, prompting significant backlash from historians and archaeologists. Mahmoud Ibrahim, a translator, described the incident as a "crime against our civilisation and an act of systematic negligence."
Egyptologist Monica Hanna expressed concern that the hammering reflects broader issues in heritage management, noting a lack of protocols for handling archaeological materials. Social media users condemned the construction, labeling it a "disaster" for the site.
In response, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities clarified that the work was intended to remove construction materials used for electrical installations, assuring that no damage was inflicted on the pyramid itself.
Accountability is being debated, with some attributing blame to private restoration companies and others to the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathy. Critics argue that conducting construction during peak tourist hours is detrimental to Egypt's image.
Historians, including Bassam El-Shammaa, suggested that such work should be conducted outside visiting hours to minimize disruption. The effectiveness of existing laws protecting Egypt's antiquities, particularly Law No. 117 of 1983, has also been questioned, with calls for more detailed guidelines on restoration practices.
Egypt's obligations under international conventions, including the UNESCO World Heritage Convention, emphasize the need for careful preservation of cultural heritage. However, experts are concerned that current practices do not align with these standards.
Monica highlighted the Venice Charter's stipulations regarding restoration processes, noting that adherence to these guidelines is lacking in Egypt. The public response has been one of alarm, with calls for government intervention to safeguard the nation's ancient heritage.
Experts warn that without proper oversight, further damage could occur, threatening the integrity of Egypt's historical sites. Ibrahim emphasized the need for qualified professionals to oversee restoration efforts to prevent mismanagement and ensure the preservation of these invaluable monuments.