Egypt cancels ‘project of the century’ restoration plan for Menkaure pyramid

Egypt has decided to cancel the ambitious restoration project for the Menkaure Pyramid, the smallest of the three iconic structures that grace the Giza Plateau, right by the capital Cairo.

Initially hailed as the “project of the century” by Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the plan aimed to return the pyramid, also known as Mykerinos, to its original grandeur. However, a comprehensive review by an expert panel has led to a reassessment of these plans.

The decision to halt the restoration came after the committee, led by esteemed Egyptologist Zahi Hawass, deemed the project’s initial approach—recladding the pyramid with granite blocks—unfeasible. The proposal, revealed in late January by Mostafa Waziri, the Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, sparked considerable debate within the scientific community. Concerns were primarily focused on potential violations of UNESCO conventions regarding the restoration of World Heritage Sites.

Controversial pyramid scheme causes backlash in Egypt

The controversy was further fueled by a video showcasing the initial phase of reconstruction, which depicted workers placing granite blocks significantly different in appearance from the pyramid’s current facade. This visual discrepancy raised alarms among archaeologists about the materials used for the project. Critics, including Mansour Brik and associate professor of restoration and conservation Ibrahem Badr, voiced their concerns, emphasizing the need for adherence to international restoration standards.

The government had engaged Zahi Hawass to examine the restoration’s viability meticulously. Ultimately, the committee recommended preserving the pyramid’s current state to maintain its “exceptional global archaeological value” without any additions.

This decision marks a significant step back from a project that promised to be Egypt’s gift to the world in the 21st century, initially projected to span three years. The former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities reassured in a statement to Reuters that the pyramids “are safe and nothing will happen to them,” emphasizing the commitment to their preservation amidst the global outcry.

This development underscores the challenges of balancing historical preservation with modern restoration techniques, especially for sites of immense cultural and archaeological significance like the Giza pyramids.