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