Innovation No. 28 of 77 in the book
Mortar
Gypsum mortar used to bind stone blocks
- When
- c. 2500 BCE
- Dynasty
- 4th Dynasty
- Era
- Old Kingdom
The pyramids at Giza, built around 2500 BCE, are held with the world’s first widely-used mortar — millions of tonnes of it.
Egyptians burned gypsum rock and mixed it into a paste that set hard between the blocks. It wasn’t mainly glue: it worked as a lubricant, letting masons slide multi-tonne stones into a snug fit.
Whole industries of quarrying, burning and hauling grew up just to supply it.
The stuff that binds the modern built world starts with Egyptian gypsum.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the earliest archaeological evidence for mortar in ancient Egypt?
The earliest confirmed evidence dates to approximately 2500 BCE during Egypt's Old Kingdom (4th Dynasty). The pyramids at Giza, built around 2500 BCE, are held with the world’s first widely-used mortar — millions of tonnes of it.
How did ancient Egyptians develop mortar, and what is its legacy?
Egyptians burned gypsum rock and mixed it into a paste that set hard between the blocks. It wasn’t mainly glue: it worked as a lubricant, letting masons slide multi-tonne stones into a snug fit. Egyptians burned gypsum rock and mixed it into a paste that set hard between the blocks. It wasn’t mainly glue: it worked as a lubricant, letting masons slide multi-tonne stones into a snug fit. The stuff that binds the modern built world starts with Egyptian gypsum.