Nile delta paleoclimate data reveals three humid periods. Sediment core MS27PT is closest to Nile delta providing paleoclimate data for Giza Three humid periods identified: Last Glacial Maximum (22.5-20.5 ka), HS1 second phase (16-14.5 ka), early Holocene (11.5-6 ka) Heinrich stadial 1 had two phases: dry 17.5-16 ka followed by wet 16-14.5 ka
Sediment core MS27PT from the Nile delta provides key paleoclimate data for the Giza region. Scientists identified three major humid periods: the Last Glacial Maximum (22.5-20.5 ka), Heinrich stadial 1's wet phase (16-14.5 ka), and the early Holocene (11.5-6 ka). The earlier cold humid periods during glacial cycles appear to best match the semi-arid conditions that could have produced the Sphinx's water erosion features.
Key Facts
- Sediment core MS27PT is closest to Nile delta providing paleoclimate data for Giza
- Three humid periods identified: Last Glacial Maximum (22.5-20.5 ka), HS1 second phase (16-14.5 ka), early Holocene (11.5-6 ka)
- Heinrich stadial 1 had two phases: dry 17.5-16 ka followed by wet 16-14.5 ka
- Last Glacial Maximum humid period was colder and less humid than Holocene
- Earlier cold humid periods better fit semi-arid conditions for Sphinx erosion
Related site: Giza Necropolis — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: How Old Are the Great Pyramids? Surprising Distant Timeline of Giza Pyramids & Sphinx by Curious Being