Scientists unveil the oldest known pyramid by far

The enigmatic Gunung Padang pyramid in Indonesia, previously considered a mere megalithic structure, has just disclosed its ancient secrets. A multidisciplinary team consisting of archaeologists, geophysicists, geologists, and paleontologists has conducted an in-depth study of this site, designated a cultural heritage in 1998. Their findings, presented in the scientific journal Archaeological Prospection, suggest that Gunung Padang might be the oldest known pyramid to date.


Located atop an extinct volcano in West Java, the Gunung Padang site has long been the subject of debate concerning its nature. Some thought it to be a natural formation enhanced by humans, while others suggested it was entirely or largely shaped by human hands.

From 2011 to 2015, researchers employed state-of-the-art methods such as seismic tomography, electrical resistivity tomography, and ground-penetrating radar. They also drilled into the hill to collect samples and determine the age of the site's constituent layers. Their analysis revealed that the structure was predominantly human-made, constructed in stages over thousands of years. The oldest part is dated between 25,000 and 14,000 years ago, potentially making it the oldest known pyramid to date.

The researchers identified several construction phases. Initially, shapes were carved into the lava at the summit of the volcano. Several millennia later, between 7900 and 6100 BC, a layer of bricks and rock columns was added. Subsequently, a layer of soil was deposited, partially covering earlier work. Between 2000 and 1100 BC, additional elements such as stone terraces and more soil were added.

The research team also found indications of internal cavities, potentially housing secret chambers. They plan to drill into these spaces to insert a camera and explore these mysterious areas.