Professional stonemasons rate work impossible to replicate. French stonemasons rated difficulty at 9.5-12 out of 10 Modern stonemasons say they could not match specifications Polishing vaulted ceilings described as 'hell of a job'

French stonemasons rated the difficulty 9.5-12 out of 10. Modern experts say they couldn't match these specifications, and even modern mechanical tools wouldn't help.

Key Facts

  • French stonemasons rated difficulty at 9.5-12 out of 10
  • Modern stonemasons say they could not match specifications
  • Polishing vaulted ceilings described as 'hell of a job'
  • Requires years of apprenticeship and mastery of geometry
  • Work shows evidence of one hand - remarkably consistent finish
  • Modern tools would not achieve better precision given the constraints
  • Estimated 10+ years minimum for most complex chamber (Sudama)

Related site: Barabar Caves — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.