The films utilize stylized representations of the Giza Plateau and its structures, notably the Great Pyramid of Khufu (Cheops), in key scenes involving maps and plans.
The "Map Room" & The Staff of Ra
In "Raiders of the Lost Ark" (1981), Indy discovers the location of the Ark's resting place using a unique device. The scene involves a miniature-scale model of the ancient city of Tanis built over the real-world location of Tanis in Egypt. Crucially, the model contains a scaled-down version of the Giza Plateau near Tanis.
Indy uses a specific staff height (6 kadam) to position a crystal-topped staff (Staff of Ra headpiece) on a specific date (the equinox). When sunlight passes through the headpiece crystal, it illuminates a specific spot on the miniature Tanis city model, pinpointing the Well of Souls location – not directly on the Giza model itself. This sequence heavily features detailed diagrams and maps as props.
Representations in Artifacts and Documents
Throughout the franchise, props resembling maps or architectural diagrams of the Giza Pyramids or the Sphinx often appear as part of:
- Journal sketches and notations by Henry Jones Sr. and Marcus Brody ("The Last Crusade").
- Ancient scrolls or tablets Indy discovers.
- German intelligence documents depicting the location and layout of archaeological sites in Cairo/Giza.
These typically feature the distinctive triangular shape of the Great Pyramid and may include annotations related to tunnels, chambers, or celestial alignments relevant to the plot.
Characteristics of the Portrayals
- Stylized for Narrative: Maps and diagrams prioritize plot progression over strict archaeological accuracy.
- Symbolic Landmark: The Giza Pyramids are consistently used as visually iconic shorthand for Egypt in establishing shots and maps within the films.
- Focus on Secrets: Diagrams often highlight hidden chambers, traps, or specific alignments connected to the films' central artifacts (like the Ark or the Grail).
Real-World vs. Fictional Giza
While the Giza Plateau is a real location, specific maps claiming hidden chambers within the Great Pyramid (as sometimes implied or shown) are purely fictional constructs designed for the Indiana Jones adventures. Any depiction of extensive, accessible internal chambers beyond the known shafts and chambers is artistic license.
