Papyrus Logbooks
I enjoyed this extended article in Archaeology Magazine, “Journeys of the Pyramid Builders.” It discusses specialized workers who delivered quarried stone for Pharaoh Khufu’s pyramid. Not only have archaeologists excavated a complex seasonal port where the workers plied their trades, but they also found papyrus logbooks detailing the daily activities of the crews.
Not the Oppressed Slaves You Picture
The stereotyped view of pyramid building evokes downtrodden men slaving away under massive burdens. The workers described in these records weren’t placing or carving limestone blocks, and perhaps those workers had it a lot harder. Among other jobs, these pyramid builders ferried the stone in their boats from the quarry to the building site. In addition, they took on a wide variety of complicated duties. For example, they reopened the port each year.
Luxury Foods for Pyramid Builders
Not only did they perform skilled responsibilities, but there are other signs of privileged status such as foods.
“In addition to a diet including poultry, fish, fruit, and a variety of breads, cakes, and beers, the men were also provided with dates and honey, delicacies that were extremely scarce and generally reserved for those within the royal entourage.”
Read in Archaeology for the fascinating details.
Here for a post about Pharaoh Djoser’s Tomb, Newly Restored.