The Sphinx, also known as the Great Sphinx of Giza stands as a timeless guard in Egypt. This colossal limestone statue, with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, dates back to around 2500 BC. It is the largest monolith statue in the world and offers a glimpse into the incredible skill and creativity of ancient Egyptian civilization. Located near the Pyramids of Giza, it invites awe and intrigue, embodying Egypt's grandeur.
The Great Sphinx of Giza, a monumental limestone statue with a lion's body and a human head, stands as a testament to ancient Egyptian engineering and artistry. It is located on the Giza Plateau near Cairo. This iconic sculpture is closely associated with the Pharaoh Khafre, who ruled during the 4th dynasty of the Old Kingdom, around 2558 to 2532 BC. The Sphinx is part of a larger complex that includes the Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The Sphinx, measuring about 73 meters long and 20 meters high, is one of the world's largest and oldest monolith statues. Despite its grandeur, much about its origin remains a subject of debate. According to legends, people believed that the Sphinx represented Khafre, guarding his pyramid and temple as a symbol of protection.
Over the centuries, the Great Sphinx has undergone numerous restoration efforts to address the damage caused by natural erosion and human activities. One of the most intriguing facts about the Sphinx is that the traces of pigment on it indicate that the structure was once colourful.
Today, the Sphinx stands as a symbol of Egypt's ancient wonders. It attracts both scholars who study its history and tourists captivated by its mystery. Its enduring presence serves as a reminder of Egypt's rich past and the legacy of its ancient builders.
Location: Al Giza Desert, Giza Governorate, Egypt
Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Price: 470 Egyptian Pounds per Adult
Highlights
• Marvel at the Great Sphinx, an ancient symbol of Egyptian ingenuity and culture.
• Discover the lion's body and human head, representing strength and wisdom since 2500 BC.
• Explore the intricate hieroglyphs on the base of the Sphinx, offering a glimpse into ancient Egyptian history.
• Experience the aura of the Sphinx at sunrise, witnessing the silhouette against the Giza Plateau.
• Witness the blend of light and shadow on the Sphinx's face during sunset, which highlights its expression and adds to the mystery.
How To Reach
By Car: The Sphinx is 20 kilometres from Cairo city centre. To reach the Pyramids, you can take a taxi, a private car, or ride-sharing services like Uber or Careem. The journey takes about 30 to 40 minutes.
By Metro and Bus: There is no direct metro line to the Sphinx. However, you can take a metro from Cairo Metro Line 1 (red line) to reach the El Giza station. It is located 9.5 kilometres from the Sphinx. From there, take a microbus or a local bus to the Haram Mashaal bus stop on Al Mansoreya Road, which will take 20 minutes. The bus stop is 2.6 kilometres away from the Sphinx.
Best Time To Visit
The Sphinx is welcoming throughout the year, always ready for visitors to explore its ancient mystery.
Best Day: Weekdays offer a quieter experience. You will encounter fewer crowds, allowing a more intimate experience with the Sphinx.
Best Time of the Day: Aim for an early morning visit. This is when it is cooler, and you can enjoy the site in a more relaxed atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
Other Essential Information
Tips for visiting Sphinx
1. Wear light, breathable clothes to stay cool in the desert heat.
2. Bring cash for purchases at local stalls near the Sphinx.
3. Consider a guide or an audio guide to enrich your understanding of the Sphinx's history and significance.
4. Stay hydrated, especially during the hot months from May to September.
5. Avoid touching the Sphinx to preserve its delicate limestone structure.
Explore the Mystique of the Sphinx at Sunset
As the sun starts to set, the Sphinx becomes an even more magical site. The play of light and shadow breathes life into the ancient guardian, making it a must-see. Witness the Sphinx against the backdrop of a fiery sky, an experience that feels like stepping into a timeless realm. This spectacle, where history and nature converge, is unforgettable. Be sure to capture this moment, as the Sphinx, bathed in the sunset's glow, offers a rare glimpse into the past.
Learn about History at the Sphinx Temple
Adjacent to the Sphinx, the Sphinx Temple awaits you. This often-overlooked site offers a deeper dive into the ancient world. The temple is crafted from the same stone as the Sphinx and gives you a glimpse into ancient religious practices. It was designed to align in position with the Sphinx and helps you understand the respect that ancient Egyptians had for this site. Walking among the ruins brings you closer to understanding the ancient Egyptians' complex spiritual life. Each structure was built with a purpose, connecting them to the divine.
Journey Through Time at the Dream Stele
Between the Sphinx's paws, the Dream Stele tells a tale of prophecy and power. Reading the inscriptions, you will be transported back in time. The stele recounts how Thutmose IV dreamt of being promised kingship if he cleared the sand from the Sphinx. This tale adds layers to the monument's mystique, connecting it to the divine and royal ambition. The hieroglyphs on the Sphinx showcase a blend of history and power. They offer insights into the role of this structure in Egypt's rich past.
Photograph the Sphinx from Unique Angles
During your visit to see the Sphinx, don't forget to capture this ancient marvel with a camera. Move beyond the typical frontal shots and find unique angles that showcase its grandeur against the pyramids or the desert expanse. Early mornings offer soft light for dramatic shots, while dusk brings a golden hue. It is a creative challenge to frame this icon in ways that reflect its majesty and the stories it guards. Your camera becomes a tool to explore angles of history and architecture, creating memories that are uniquely yours.
Pay a Visit to the Pyramids of Giza
No visit to the Sphinx is complete without exploring the Pyramids of Giza nearby. Standing at the foot of these towering structures, like the Great Pyramid of Khafre, you are witnessing human history's architectural marvels. These pyramids, built as tombs for pharaohs, showcase the ancient Egyptians' incredible engineering skills and their beliefs in the afterlife. Walking around them, you are following in the footsteps of the builders and believers of ancient times, immersed in the world of pharaohs and their quest for immortality.
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