Sphinx of giza

Discover the History of the Great Sphinx

Carved from a massive limestone rock on the Giza Plateau, the Great Sphinx of Giza is a world's largest and oldest, famous man-made monument. Most Egyptologists agree that the Sphinx was built by the Egyptian Pharaoh Khafre around 2500 BC; the monument is more than 4,500 years old. With the body of a lion and the head of a king; it was intended to demonstrate power, knowledge and divine authority representing the power and the strength of the pharaoh who was ruling ancient Egypt.

With an astonishing dimension of 73 m (240 ft) of length and 20 m (66 ft) high, the Sphinx stands out and dominates the Giza Plateau where it is located near the Pyramids of Giza, an excellent reason to assume the monument was used to protect the royal necropolis by observing the tombs of the Egyptian kings for thousands of years. The Sphinx survived many thousand years exposed to wind, sand and climate; today it stands still one of the most astounding proofs of ancient architecture and craftsmanship.

Currently, the Great Sphinx is regarded as one of the most iconic symbol of the ancient Egyptian civilization and also one of the greatest archaeological treasures of the world; the monument remains of great historical significance and it still mesmerizes thousands of people annually by its legendary scale and mysteries, and it is a destination that is definitely worthwhile to visit for anyone fascinated with archeology, history and tourism.

Step back in time on the Giza Plateau

At the center of the famed Giza Plateau sits the Great Sphinx, accompanied by the world-renowned Pyramids of Giza and together comprising one of the most magnificent archaeological settings in the world. Journeys to the incredible site will take travelers more than 4,500 years back in time to the age of the pharaohs. Situated amidst the golden sands of the desert and rich with centuries of history, the Sphinx remains a profound symbol of Egypt and one of the most recognized monuments anywhere in the world.

Standing at the Sphinx is one of the most truly memorable experiences in life. The sheer size, intricate detail, and mysterious facial expression of the monument are enough to leave even the most avid traveler awestruck, from every corner of the world. When walking along the Giza Plateau, you'll walk not only along the sands of the desert but also the path of history and will begin to truly comprehend the genius of the ancient Egyptians whose achievements continue to both fascinate historians and amaze travelers to this very day. It’s easy to glimpse a bit of the world of one of the most ancient civilizations to ever exist and the incredible monuments that it produced.

The Giza Plateau is also considered one of the premier places to see in all of Egypt. The photography and sightseeing at sunrise at the Sphinx and Pyramids is unlike anywhere else on Earth; you'll witness the softly glowing, golden light illuminate the monuments and feel a sense of time that seems suspended. Throughout the day, you can witness incredible desert views, and as the sun begins to set, you'll witness some of the most colorful and shadowed desertscapes.

The legends and mystery of the Sphinx

What is probably the most captivating element of the Great Sphinx of Giza is the extent of its origins and purpose are shrouded in mystery.Most historians today believe that it was built by the pharaoh Khafre over 4500 years ago. But why, they ask, was this gigantic sculpture created? How could a monument of such scale have been carved with the technology available at that time? And what precisely was its function in relation to the rest of the complex? The answers to these questions continue to intrigue archaeologists, historians and travellers.

Numerous stories have been passed down through generations of a secret tunnel to a lost chamber inside the Sphinx which holds lost knowledge and unimaginable wealth. The lack of a nose has itself generated many tales and theories and so the mystery of the Sphinx continues.

Discover what makes the Giza Sphinx a travel must-have

For anyone who loves history and culture a trip to the Sphinx can be one of the most important moments in any vacation itinerary. Located very near to the Pyramids of Giza this location makes for the perfect place to discover two of the most important architectural marvels in the world and makes for a popular part of any tour. Travelers also tend to book an extra camel ride through the desert and also attend the amazing Sound and Light Show in Giza