[attach id=626321 size="medium" align="right"]A rope-stretcher measured real property using knotted ropes. This procedure is documented on artefacts as ancient as the Scorpion Macehead (pictured). Photo: Jon Bodsworth[/attach]

It might be easy to start believing in the fallacy tacitly assumed by some that mathematics in ancient times was unsophisticated and unrefined.

In solving real world problems, the Egyptians had to possess prolific mathematical skills, sophisticated techniques and a sound knowledge of applied mathematics. The need to survey fields following the annual flooding of the Nile Valley motivated the ancient Egyptians to develop methods and techniques to help them in this arduous task. They made use of ropes to take measurements, a task not remotely imaginable today, but in which the ‘rope-stretchers’ were extremely capable and precise.

The pyramids are a constant reminder of the high level of mathematical attainment of the Egyptians. The precision with which the Great Pyramid of Giza was built and the mathematical messages hidden between the walls of the pyramid have been the subjects of many a debate. The relationship between its perimeter and height with the value of π, its almost perfect alignment to the north and the link between the angle of descent and ascent of the passage slopes and elevation of the pole star Alpha Draconis from the latitude of the pyramid are just but few of these occurrences.

Whether this mathematical accuracy was actually intended or just a coincidence might remain a mystery, but one cannot but admire and envy the mathematical knowledge of these architects, especially keeping in mind the technology available at the time.