Great Sphinx of Giza

Giza, Egypt

The Great Sphinx side view
Image by Pete Linforth

The Sphinx is a massive statue located in Giza, Egypt. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, attracting millions of visitors every year. Despite its popularity, the Sphinx remains shrouded in mystery, with many questions surrounding its origin, purpose, and meaning.

The Sphinx is believed to have been built during the reign of the Pharaoh Khafre, around 2500 BC. It is carved out of a single piece of limestone and stands at a height of over 20 meters. The statue is in the shape of a mythical creature, with the body of a lion and the head of a human. The face of the Sphinx is thought to represent the Pharaoh Khafre and is believed to have been modeled after his own likeness.

One of the most intriguing features of the Sphinx is its missing nose. The nose is believed to have been destroyed either by British soldiers in the 18th century or by Napoleon’s troops in the 19th century. However, there are also theories that the nose was deliberately removed by the ancient Egyptians themselves, perhaps as part of a ritual or as a way to symbolize the Sphinx’s power.

Another mystery surrounding the Sphinx is its purpose. While many believe that it was built as a symbol of royal power, others argue that it served a more practical purpose, such as a marker for the entrance to the nearby pyramid complex. Some even suggest that the Sphinx was built to align with certain astronomical phenomena, such as the rising sun on the equinox.


Visit

Great Sphinx of Giza, Abou Al Houl Al Syahi Street, Kom al Akhdar, Giza, 12125, Egypt

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