Did you know? In the 1830s, the ruler of Egypt, Muhammad Ali Pasha, wanted to disassemble the Giza Pyramids and use them as pre-cut building materials. Thankfully, the Quantity Surveyor for the project fudged the figures and made it look like it would cost too much to save them.

The Great Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, has been standing for more than 4,500 years, attracting millions of visitors every year. However, what many people do not know is that in the 1830s, the ruler of Egypt, Muhammad Ali Pasha, had planned to disassemble these iconic structures and to use them as pre-cut building materials.

Muhammad Ali Pasha, who was the viceroy of Egypt during the Ottoman Empire, was known for his modernization and industrialization projects in the country. He believed that using the Great Pyramids as building materials would be an excellent way to advance his vision of Egypt as a modern country.

Thankfully, Muhammad Ali’s plans did not materialize, and the Great Pyramids continue to stand tall to this day. The reason for this was the cunning work of a quantity surveyor, a specialist who deals with the costs and quantities of construction materials and labor.

The quantity surveyor for the project, a man named Khater, was tasked to provide an estimate of the cost of disassembling the Great Pyramids and transporting the stones to various building sites across Egypt. Khater, however, was an ardent admirer of the Pyramids and was determined to save them from being turned into building blocks. Therefore, he fudged the figures and presented a cost estimate that was too high, making it seem like the project was impractical and unaffordable.

Khater’s masterful deception saved the Great Pyramids from destruction. It also became a turning point for the conservation efforts of the Pyramids and other ancient Egyptian architectural wonders. In 1959, the Egyptian government established the Supreme Council of Antiquities, which is responsible for the conservation and preservation of Egypt’s historical sites and monuments.

Today, the Great Pyramids of Giza are not only a testament to the ancient world’s engineering prowess but also a vital part of Egypt’s cultural heritage. They remain a popular tourist attraction, attracting visitors from all over the world, and continue to make a significant contribution to the country’s economy.

In conclusion, Khater’s ingenious plan saved the Great Pyramids from being dismantled. His actions highlight the importance of passionate and dedicated individuals who are willing to go the extra mile to protect cultural heritage sites from destruction. The story also reminds us of the necessity of preserving ancient architectural wonders that embody the accomplishments of our ancestors.