Zahi Hawass' blog discusses the importance of the Step Pyramid and his heroic efforts to help save it from collapse with the help of an "all Egyptian team." Now that it appears the job has been horribly botched, will he accept some responsibility?
Meanwhile, Egyptian authorities claim there is no problem at all and the archaeological lobby remains silent about this unfolding debacle. No wonder. This latest mess again calls into question their premise that the Egyptian military dictatorship is such a fine steward of all things Egyptian that undocumented artifacts should be repatriated to its tender loving care.
"This latest mess again calls into question their premise that the Egyptian military dictatorship is such a fine steward of all things Egyptian..." which again highlights my oft repeated question..."Is archaeology safe in the hands of archaeologists?"
ReplyDeleteThere needs to be some form of oversight to ensure archaeologists are doing what they are paid do and not indulging in the often sloppy, inept, bungling practices that identifies the worst offenders.
The problem of artifact safety is probably more widespread worldwide than the archaeo-bloggers dare admit and perhaps some kind of audit be undertaken.UNESCO would seem at first glance be the organisation to do this, but it too has had its share of scandal.
Obviously, those archaeo-bloggers/itinerant part-timers, well in the pockets of the Military are unlikely to bite the hand that bribes them.
Best wishes as usual
John Howland
England
Arthur Houghton asked me to post this:
ReplyDelete"Peter, once again this terrible situation raises the question as to whether countries that cannot take care of their culture should not have it removed for safekeeping to those countries that can care for and appreciate it. The step pyramid is large, yes, but remember where the old London bridge is now.
Thank you for raising this matter.
Warm regards
Arthur"