The pyramids' missing casing stones have a better story than "thieves"
The missing casing stones of the Egyptian pyramids have a more complex history than simply being stolen. Research suggests that natural forces may have caused some stones to fall off, which were later removed by people. The Bent Pyramid, which retains much of its original cladding, offers valuable insights into the construction of these ancient monuments.
- ▪The pyramids were originally smooth and white, but now appear as giant staircases due to missing casing stones.
- ▪History for Granite argues that natural forces contributed to the loss of casing stones, rather than solely theft.
- ▪The Bent Pyramid is significant as it still has much of its original limestone cladding, providing evidence of ancient construction techniques.
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The pyramids' missing casing stones have a better story than "thieves" Jason Weisberger 11:18 am Fri May 29, 2026 Pyramids in Egypt. Photo: GLF Media / Shutterstock.com The pyramids used to be smooth, white, and blinding in the sun. Now they look like giant ancient staircases, and the usual explanation is that people stole the good bits. History for Granite says the truth is messier and far more interesting. The simple story is that people stripped the pyramids for building material. That happened, but it does not explain everything. Looking at the damage patterns, History for Granite argues that some pyramids were not quarried directly so much as shed their casing stones through natural forces, with people later hauling off what had already fallen.
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