The Great Pyramid’s Eight Sides: A Solstice Wonder or Ancient Optical Illusion
by guest blogger Toby Bartlett (wordsandideas.com)
Pansharpened image of the Great Pyramid, by Quick Bird on Feb.2, 2002. https://www.advite.com/satellitephotos.htm.
As today is the winter solstice, it makes an ideal time to discuss a fascinating detail about an already fascinating topic - the Great Pyramid at Giza. Why today? If you could have the proverbial “birds-eye-view” over the Giza Plain today, you might see that pyramid change right before your eyes.
If you thought the Great Pyramid of Giza was already an architectural marvel, buckle up: it might be even more fascinating than you’d imagined. Forget the standard four-sided structure; evidence suggests the Great Pyramid has eight sides—a feature nearly invisible to the naked eye and shows itself only under very specific conditions. Intrigued? Let’s dive into this ancient mystery and see what makes the Great Pyramid’s geometry so mind-blowing.
What Are We Talking About Here?
Let’s start with the basics. Most of us picture the Great Pyramid as a square-based pyramid with four smooth triangular sides. But in 1940, a British pilot flying over Giza during the autumnal equinox noticed something peculiar: each side of the pyramid appeared to have a subtle indentation, splitting it into two halves. This makes the pyramid—you guessed it—an eight-sided structure.
The effect is so subtle that it’s only visible during the equinoxes or under specific lighting conditions. And no, it’s not a crumbling flaw or weather erosion; it’s believed to have been part of the original design.
Drone View of the Top of the Great Pyramid by the photographer A. Ladanivskyy. (https://www.thisiscolossal.com/2021/07/drone-view-of-giza/)
A Quick Dive into the Science
A detailed 2023 study published in Scientific Research offers fascinating insights into this phenomenon. The researchers employed advanced 3D modeling and precise measurements to confirm the pyramid’s concavity. Their findings suggest that the pyramid’s unique geometry might have served astronomical and structural purposes.
Astronomical Alignment: The concavities align with the sun’s path during equinoxes, suggesting the design might have been a deliberate nod to Ra, the sun god.
Structural Integrity: The subtle inward angles could reduce wind load on the massive structure, contributing to its incredible longevity.
The study delves deep into mathematical and architectural principles, highlighting the ancient Egyptians’ advanced understanding of engineering and celestial events.
Why Does It Matter?
This eight-sided design isn’t just a neat optical trick; it raises questions about the pyramid’s true purpose. Was it purely symbolic, an homage to the gods? A calendar etched in stone? Or a masterclass in engineering designed to stand the test of time? The jury’s still out, but one thing’s clear: the ancient Egyptians weren’t just stacking stones—they were blending art, science, and spirituality in ways that continue to awe us today.
How Can You See It?
Here’s the catch: spotting the eight sides in person is almost impossible without the right conditions. The effect is most noticeable from an aerial view during the spring and autumn equinoxes. So unless you’re chartering a private plane or timing your visit with the equinox, you’ll have to settle for photos and expert analysis to experience this marvel. Of course, it doesn’t hurt to stand in awe at the base of one side, and my friend Khaledh Shalaby at Kemet Spiritual Journeys is an ideal guide for learning all you can while gazing up at these ancient wonders.
Final Thoughts
The Great Pyramid’s eight sides are a reminder of how much there is left to learn about ancient Egypt. With each discovery, we uncover not just architectural brilliance but also a glimpse into a civilization that harmonized science, spirituality, and art. So next time you think of the Great Pyramid, remember: it’s not just a monument—it’s a puzzle, still revealing its secrets thousands of years later.