Archaeology & History

Scientists discover why the Great Pyramid is so resilient to earthquakes

By T.K. Randall
May 23, 2026

Image: Pyramids of Giza
Credit: KennyOMG / CC BY-SA 4.0 (adapted) To stand at the base of the Great Pyramid is to behold a structure that has stood the test of time like few others have - a monument to the skills of a civilization long relegated to history.

But whereas many other structures over the millennia have succumbed to natural disasters such as earthquakes, the Great Pyramid seems particularly (and perhaps unusually) resilient.

Now, according to a new study, this is because the ancient builders of this remarkable structure actually made it resistant by way of certain architectural features built into its stonework.By analyzing vibrations through the structure, researchers found that a series of chambers - known as pressure-reliving chambers - actually dampened seismic movement toward the top.

The structure's huge base and symmetrical geometry have also served as stabilizing factors.

When an earthquake happens, the vibrations don't transfer through the structure the way you would expect, effectively protecting the Great Pyramid from the typical damage that might normally occur.

The discovery not only emphasizes the remarkable skills of the people who built it but also provides important information that could help scientists understand how other ancient monuments have survived for thousands of years as well.

Source: Live science

Tags: Pyramid, Egypt, Earthquake