A prominent Egyptian archaeologist has dismissed recent claims about the discovery of an underground city beneath the Pyramid of Khafre in Giza. These claims, made by a research team from Scotland and Italy, have gained significant traction on social media but have been met with skepticism from experts.
Archaeologist Calls Claims Baseless
Zahi Hawass, a renowned Egyptologist and former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, has publicly refuted the idea of an underground city, stating that such assertions are "completely false and lack any scientific foundation." Speaking to Ahram Online, Hawass also challenged the alleged use of radar technology to detect the structures, arguing that the methods employed are "neither scientifically approved nor validated," as reported by The National.
Research Findings Under Scrutiny
The controversy stems from an October 2022 study conducted by researchers Filippo Biondi and Corrado Malanga. Their research claims to have identified eight deep vertical wells extending approximately 2,100 feet below the surface, along with five multi-level structures and potentially 4,000 additional hidden formations beneath the Giza plateau.
Scientific Community Questions Findings
Beyond Hawass's critique, other experts have also expressed doubts regarding the findings. Professor Lawrence Conyers from the University of Denver, a specialist in radar imaging, told the Daily Mail that current radar technology is not capable of detecting structures at such extreme depths. He further dismissed the notion of an underground city, calling it "a massive exaggeration."
Social Media Amplifies Misinformation
Despite expert skepticism, the claims have gained widespread attention on social media, particularly on platform X, where they have garnered millions of views and shares. The viral nature of the discussion highlights the enduring fascination with Egypt's ancient wonders, as well as the rapid spread of unverified theories online.
The Timeless Allure of the Giza Pyramids
The Great Pyramids of Giza, believed to be around 4,600 years old, remain one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. Every year, they draw millions of tourists to Egypt, fueling both academic research and public curiosity. While debates over hidden chambers and lost civilizations persist, experts emphasize the importance of rigorous scientific investigation before accepting extraordinary claims.
As speculation continues, archaeologists and historians stress the need for verified research and peer-reviewed studies to separate fact from fiction in the ongoing quest to uncover Egypt’s ancient secrets.