The Great Sphinx of Giza, guardian of the ancient pyramids, is shrouded in many mysteries and enigmas. This architectural masterpiece, depicting a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human, is one of the most recognizable symbols of Egypt. Despite its fame, there are lesser-known facts that make the Sphinx even more mysterious.
1. Unknown Creator
To date, it remains uncertain who exactly built the Great Sphinx. There are theories suggesting it might have been Pharaoh Khafre, but definitive evidence has yet to be found.
2. Missing Beard
Originally, the Sphinx had a beard, fragments of which are now kept in the British Museum in London and the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.
3. Missing Nose
There are numerous legends about how the Sphinx lost its nose. One version claims it was broken off by a Napoleonic soldier, but research indicates that the nose was lost before Napoleon’s arrival in Egypt.
4. Ancient Egyptian Ceremonies
Ancient Egyptians conducted religious ceremonies at the base of the Sphinx, which were believed to attract fertility and prosperity.
5. Centuries Under Sand
For most of its history, the Sphinx was almost completely buried under sand, and only in the 19th century did excavation work begin.
6. Secret Chamber
There are speculations about a secret chamber beneath the Sphinx’s paws, the location of which remains a mystery.
7. Restoration Works
Over time, the Sphinx has undergone numerous restoration efforts, from antiquity to the present day, to preserve it for future generations.
8. Color Changes
Originally, the Sphinx was painted in vibrant colors, but over time the paint has faded and flaked off, leaving it in its current state.
9. Symbol of the Sun God
The Sphinx faces east, towards the rising sun, which scholars believe signifies its connection to the cult of the sun god Ra.
10. Age of the Mystery
There is debate over the exact age of the Sphinx. Some researchers suggest that it might be older than previously thought, possibly dating back to an era earlier than the Old Kingdom.
The Great Sphinx of Giza continues to awe and intrigue scientists and travelers with its mystical beauty and secrets, many of which remain unsolved to this day. This ancient monument embodies the grandeur and wisdom of the ancient Egyptian civilization, remaining one of the most magnificent mysteries of humanity.
Here are several ways to reach the Sphinx in Giza, Egypt:
By Plane:
Ближайший к Сфинксу аэропорт — Международный аэропорт Каира (CAI).
Из аэропорта можно добраться до Гизы на такси, автобусе или метро.
Поездка на такси займет около 30 минут, а на автобусе или метро — около 1 часа.
By Train:
You can reach Giza by train from Cairo.
Trains leave from Cairo’s central station several times a day.
The train journey takes about 30 minutes.
By Bus:
You can reach Giza by bus from many cities in Egypt.
Buses arrive at the Giza bus station, which is close to the Sphinx.
The bus ride from Cairo takes about 1 hour.
By Taxi:
You can get to the Sphinx by taxi from anywhere in Cairo or Giza.
The taxi ride from Cairo takes about 30 minutes, and from Giza about 15 minutes.
On Foot:
You can walk to the Sphinx from the Giza pyramids.
The walk takes about 30 minutes.
The cost of travel depends on the type of transportation you choose.
Here are some tips for getting to the Sphinx:
If you travel during rush hour, expect heavy traffic.
If you take a taxi, agree on the price with the driver beforehand.
If you take a bus, purchase your ticket before boarding.
Wear comfortable shoes as you will need to walk a lot.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and sunglasses, as it can get very hot in Giza.
The Sphinx is a monumental work of art that is worth seeing with your own eyes.
