A team of Italian and Scottish scientists has made a fascinating claim that could reshape our understanding of ancient Egypt.
Using advanced radar technology, researchers Corrado Malanga from Italy’s University of Pisa and Filippo Biondi from Scotland’s University of Strathclyde believe they’ve uncovered a vast underground city sprawling over 2 kilometres beneath the Pyramids of Giza.
“This breakthrough has revolutionised satellite data analysis and archaeological exploration,” said spokesperson Nicole Ciccolo. She explained that their findings could unveil previously unknown subterranean structures, transforming how we interpret the sacred geography of ancient Egypt.
The team used Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), a cutting-edge technology combining satellite radar data with seismic vibrations. This allowed them to create 3D images of what lies hidden underground without physically disturbing the site. Their study—yet to undergo peer review—suggests the underground city is 10 times larger than the pyramids themselves.
Among the discoveries are eight vertical shafts, each extending about 640 metres below the surface, with spiral pathways connecting them to two massive cube-like structures. They also identified five multi-level constructions linked by an intricate network of passageways.
Ciccolo noted the resemblance of these chambers to the mythical Halls of Amenti, describing the shafts as access points to this underground labyrinth. The structures were reportedly detected beneath all three pyramids—Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure.
However, experts remain divided. Professor Lawrence Conyers, speaking to the *Daily Mail*, expressed doubt, suggesting the claims of a “vast city” are exaggerated. While he acknowledged the possibility of smaller features like shafts or chambers, he questioned SAR technology’s ability to detect deep, complex formations. Critics argue SAR is more effective for shallow geological surveys.
Despite the scepticism, the findings have sparked intense interest online. Social media users have speculated wildly, with some reviving theories about the pyramids’ alternative purposes, including as ancient energy systems—a concept promoted by figures like Nikola Tesla.
For now, further excavation remains unlikely, as obtaining permission from Egyptian authorities is a significant challenge. Until then, the academic community urges caution, emphasising the need for peer-reviewed studies and physical evidence before drawing conclusions.
The pyramids, constructed some 4,500 years ago on the western bank of the Nile, have captivated the world with their mystery. While traditionally considered royal tombs, these new claims, if proven, might challenge our understanding of their purpose and construction.
