Al-Azhar University
Eleventh international Conference
1-Introduction.
The environmental impact and man misuse are considered to be the most effective factors that contribute to the deterioration of ancient Egyptian monuments. For thousands of years the Egyptian monuments stood challenging time; in the last few decades, deterioration of many ancient Egyptian monuments has reached dangerous condition. Such unsafe condition is threatening the entire monument, or at least significant parts of it, to be deteriorated and collapsed.
Saqqara step pyramid is now on the top of the list of endangered ancient Egyptian monuments. Saqqara step pyramid is considered as one of the oldest stone structure & the first royal tomb in the history. It was built between 2667-2648 B.C. And it contains 2 vertical shafts and horizontal tunnels more than 2Km. long beneath the pyramid.
Nowadays, Saqqara step pyramid is suffering from the collapse of some internal & external parts. Egyptian Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), the responsible authority for the archaeological sites in Egypt, have more than one conservation strategy to consolidate, and consequently, save Saqqara step pyramid, some of those techniques of conservation are effective and safe, others have negative effects on the pyramid regarding efficiency and safety.
In this paper we are presenting a survey of facts and studies behind Saqqara step pyramid deterioration and some case-studies of other salvation projects have been done in the previous decades, compared to recommendations given by the international committees. Further more, this study is using a non-classical analysis of routine procedures used by local authorities to conserve and save Egyptian monuments in risk. The materials and techniques that should be used in supporting & repair of the unsafe & collapsed parts is discussed to clarify the pros and cons of such techniques, suggesting safer and careful interventions while dealing with such unique Egyptian monument. That is concluded by suggesting criteria for decision makers and conservators to properly conserve Saqqara step pyramid.
Key words: Monuments, Deterioration, Salvation, Deterioration, Collapse, Significant.
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