Temples of Doom
November 7, 2011 4:49 PM Subscribe
Indiana Jones, Tomb Raider, Uncharted: Drake's Fortune, etc. feature elaborate traps guarding secret treasures in hidden temples that are hundreds or thousands of years old. These series feature secreted switches, pressure plates, spring loaded arrows and other nasty surprises that seem to be intended only for would be invaders. What is the nearest analog in the archeological record for this trope, or were there really any booby-trapped temples?
I don't buy into the Curse of the Pharaohs, but I'd appreciate hearing about other notable events that may have inspired the trope.
I don't buy into the Curse of the Pharaohs, but I'd appreciate hearing about other notable events that may have inspired the trope.
This column might be useful (if not encouraging).
As it notes, the tomb of the Qin Emperor probably does have quite a lot of mercury in it, although poisoning tomb robbers was likely not the intent.
posted by McCoy Pauley at 5:02 PM on November 7, 2011
As it notes, the tomb of the Qin Emperor probably does have quite a lot of mercury in it, although poisoning tomb robbers was likely not the intent.
posted by McCoy Pauley at 5:02 PM on November 7, 2011
Urushiol-based varnishes were used to preserve gold leaf in some Asian temples. (It also makes for a beautiful laquer - tho I understand cured laquer is harmless.)
posted by Slap*Happy at 5:28 PM on November 7, 2011
posted by Slap*Happy at 5:28 PM on November 7, 2011
The Great Pyramid and many other Egyptian tombs feature false entrances and other things to ward off would-be grave robbers.
posted by smoke at 1:30 AM on November 8, 2011
posted by smoke at 1:30 AM on November 8, 2011
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posted by mosk at 5:02 PM on November 7, 2011 [4 favorites]