Dive reveals materials 'used to build Giza and the pyramids'

A large group of boulders at the bottom of a lake near Cairo may hold the key to some of the secrets of Giza and the pyramids.

Researchers from the Centre for Space Studies at Boston University discovered the basalt rocks five years ago while carrying out a satellite survey of the area in and around the Western Desert, reports AFP.

However, Egyptian antiquities experts are now carrying out a more thorough examination of Lake Qarun to find out more about the materials used to construct the nation's ancient monuments.

Secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities Dr Zahi Hawass is involved in the project, alongside Khaled Saeed, the prehistoric affairs head at the department.

Dr Hawass revealed it is the first time his team has explored the lake, while Mr Saeed remarked: "I believe that these huge slabs … were eventually moved upstream to the Giza plateau for the construction of the Great Pyramid."

Although travellers who book onto one of The Adventure Company's Egypt holidays will not be able to explore the depths of Qarun, they can instead go snorkelling in the Red Sea.

The Pyramids to Petra break allows tourists to check out not only Egypt's great monuments but also discover the neighbouring country of Jordan.

If this article sparks your imagination then have a look at our Giza and the pyramids or our family holidays to Egypt.