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Secret messages on 3,300-year-old Egyptian obelisk finally decoded

Renovations take place on the Luxor Obelisk in Paris
Renovations take place on the Luxor Obelisk in Paris (AFP via Getty Images)
  • Secret hieroglyphics on the 3,300-year-old Luxor Obelisk in Paris, commissioned by Ramesses II, have been decoded.
  • Egyptologist Jean-Guillaume Olette-Pelletier's research suggests the inscriptions are propaganda praising Ramesses II as divinely chosen to rule Egypt.
  • The obelisk's western side, originally facing the Nile, positioned the inscriptions for optimal viewing from boats.
  • Deciphered messages reveal Ramesses II making offerings to the god Amun and pronouncements of his divine essence and eternal life.
  • Dr. Olette-Pelletier's study highlights three-dimensional cryptography, where messages vary based on viewing angle, but awaits peer review and further analysis regarding visibility from the Nile.
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