Since the signs indicate that the vessel was already submerged in water, theorists believe that it was already used to escort the mummified body of the king to his resting place. It was either that or Khufu used the ship as a mode of transport to holy places while he was still alive.
Whatever the reason, the Khufu ship is considered one of the most important findings in Egyptology’s history. But recent developments have greatly altered this.
Khufu’s Ship
The catalyst that launched this abundance of evidence came back in 1954 when archeologist Kamal el-Mallakh led a team and discovered a boat that they thought was left for the use of Pharaoh Khufu.
The remains of the boat have been restored and scanned to determine its origins, including its wooden planks. Remarkably, the findings showed that they were sewn together. So what was the actual purpose of this ship?
Sailing To Heaven?
It was in 2500 B.C. that servants sealed the ship in a pit at the Great Pyramid complex. This enabled Pharaoh Khufu to use the necessary tools and grave goods in the afterlife.
Although this is not confirmed, the vessel is called a "solar barge," a ship designed to take the resurrected king with Ra, the Sun God, on his eternal journey. However, most theorists believe it was due to another reason.
Pandora’s Pyramid
A particularly fascinating truth that was recently revealed about the Great Pyramid is in fact within the ominous structure. Recently, after intensive scanning, scientists found a mysterious void deep inside the pyramid.
Above the Queen's chamber is a 30-meter gap that looks like a kind of corridor or transport system. Though the exact purpose of the void is still unclear, there are still some theories about what the void might have been designed for.
Complex Structure
What most people may not know is that the Great Pyramid actually has a sophisticated interior. As of today, it is believed that there are three recognized chambers; the lowest one built within its bedrock, the chambers of the Queen and the King, and the exterior complex that speaks for itself.
Giza consists of two mortuary temples to honor Khufu, while there is also a “satellite” pyramid and a series of tombs around it.