Did you know there's a 5,000-year-old Boat older than the Pyramids? 10 facts

TOI World Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Sep 24, 2024, 15:02 IST

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The ancient Solar Boat of King Khufu has been transferred from its location near the Great Pyramid of Giza to the Grand Egyptian Museum. This 4,600-year-old vessel, discovered in 1954, is one of the oldest and largest wooden ships. The transport operation was carefully executed to preserve this significant artifact for future generations.

Did you know there's a 5,000-year-old Boat older than the Pyramids? 10 facts

The ancient Solar Boat of King Khufu has recently been relocated from its long-time resting place near the Great Pyramid of Giza to the upcoming Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). This 4,600-year-old vessel, known for being one of the oldest and largest wooden ships discovered, provides invaluable insights into ancient Egyptian civilization and its maritime practices.Discovered in 1954 by archaeologist Kamal el-Mallakh, the boat was originally buried alongside the Great Pyramid, believed to aid the pharaoh in his journey to the afterlife.
Officials from Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced that the boat's transport was meticulously planned to ensure its preservation for future generations. Weighing approximately 20 tons and measuring 42 meters (138 feet) in length, the vessel was moved over a 48-hour period using a specially designed remote-controlled vehicle, encased in a protective metal structure. This operation marks a significant step in safeguarding one of the world's oldest intact ships, a testament to the advanced shipbuilding techniques of ancient Egypt.
Key facts about the solar boat of King Khufu:

The Solar Boat is approximately 4,600 years old, dating back to the Fourth Dynasty of ancient Egypt.
The vessel measures 42 meters (138 feet) in length and weighs around 20 tons.
It was discovered in 1954 by Egyptian archaeologist Kamal el-Mallakh, located at the southern corner of the Great Pyramid of Giza.
The Solar Boat is considered one of the oldest and largest wooden ships ever found, representing advanced ancient Egyptian shipbuilding techniques.
It was believed that such boats were buried with pharaohs to aid them in their journey to the afterlife, reflecting the religious beliefs of the time.
The boat is made from high-quality cedar wood, showcasing the materials and craftsmanship of ancient Egyptian shipbuilders.
Extensive restoration efforts have been undertaken, guided by the Egyptian Department of Antiquities' chief restorer, Ahmed Youssef Moustafa.
The vessel was moved to the Grand Egyptian Museum using a remote-controlled vehicle within a protective metal cage, taking 48 hours for the operation.
The Grand Egyptian Museum, scheduled to open later this year, will feature the Solar Boat among over 100,000 artifacts from ancient Egypt.
The Solar Boat not only enhances our understanding of ancient maritime practices but also serves as a symbol of Egypt's rich cultural heritage and its fascination with the afterlife.

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