The Great Sphinx of Giza is one of the most mysterious and awe-inspiring monuments of ancient Egypt. With the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, it is believed to have been built during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre in the Old Kingdom (c. 2570 BC). The Sphinx stands on the Giza Plateau, adjacent to the pyramids, and has captivated travelers and historians for centuries. This article delves into its history, architecture, facts, and mythology, offering insights into why this colossal statue continues to intrigue the world.

The Great Sphinx is thought to have been carved from a single limestone rock around 2570 BC, during the rule of Pharaoh Khafre. Many scholars believe it was built as a guardian figure for Khafre’s pyramid complex, symbolizing strength and wisdom. Over the millennia, the Sphinx has suffered from erosion, natural weathering, and human interference, leading to the loss of its nose and beard. Restoration efforts have been ongoing since ancient times, with evidence of repairs dating back to the New Kingdom.

The Sphinx is a colossal limestone statue that measures approximately 73 meters (240 feet) in length and 20 meters (66 feet) in height. It features a lion’s body, symbolizing strength and power, and a human head, believed to represent Pharaoh Khafre. The statue was originally adorned with a royal headdress known as the nemes, and traces of paint suggest it was once vividly colored. The monument was carved directly from the bedrock of the Giza Plateau, showcasing the engineering skill and artistic craftsmanship of the ancient Egyptians.

The Sphinx has long been shrouded in mythology and mystery. In Greek mythology, the Sphinx was a supernatural creature with the head of a woman, the body of a lion, and the wings of an eagle. It was said to guard the city of Thebes, posing a riddle to all who wished to pass: "What walks on four legs in the morning, two legs at noon, and three legs in the evening?" Those who failed to answer correctly were devoured. The Greek hero Oedipus ultimately solved the riddle, leading to the Sphinx's downfall. Though the Egyptian Sphinx differs from its Greek counterpart, it still carries an air of mysticism and is often linked to the guardian role of sacred sites.

The Great Sphinx is widely believed to have been built by Pharaoh Khafre, the ruler of Egypt during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom. It was constructed as part of Khafre’s pyramid complex, serving as a guardian of his tomb and a representation of his divine power. The lion's body symbolizes strength, while the human head, thought to resemble Khafre, signifies intelligence and wisdom. Some alternative theories suggest that the Sphinx predates Khafre’s reign and was built by an earlier civilization, but mainstream Egyptologists agree that it was likely commissioned by Khafre to reinforce his status as a god-king and protector of his eternal resting place.

• The Sphinx was originally painted in bright colors, with traces of red, blue, and yellow still visible.
• The missing nose of the Sphinx is a mystery, with theories suggesting it was destroyed by cannon fire, chisel work, or erosion.
• There are underground tunnels beneath the Sphinx, but their purpose remains unknown.
• The Sphinx faces directly east, aligning with the rising sun, which may have had religious significance.
• The Dream Stele, placed between the Sphinx’s paws by Thutmose IV, tells the story of a prince who received a divine message in his sleep, promising kingship if he cleared the Sphinx of sand.

1. What does the Great Sphinx symbolize?

The Sphinx is believed to symbolize strength, wisdom, and protection, possibly representing Pharaoh Khafre as a divine guardian of his tomb.

2. Can visitors go inside the Great Sphinx?

No, the Sphinx is a solid limestone structure with no internal chambers for visitors to enter.

3. What happened to the Sphinx’s nose?

The exact cause of the Sphinx’s missing nose is unknown, but theories suggest it was deliberately removed by iconoclasts or eroded over time.

4. How old is the Great Sphinx?

The Sphinx is estimated to be over 4,500 years old, dating back to around 2570 BC.

5. What is the Dream Stele?

The Dream Stele is a stone monument placed between the Sphinx’s paws by Thutmose IV, describing a dream in which the Sphinx promised him kingship if he restored it.