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The Unfinished Obelisk: A Glimpse into Ancient Egyptian Engineering

Witness ancient Egyptian engineering firsthand at Aswan's Unfinished Obelisk, a colossal monument left incomplete in the granite quarries.

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Located in Aswan, Egypt, the Unfinished Obelisk offers a unique look into ancient Egyptian stonemasonry. This massive obelisk, commissioned by Queen Hatshepsut, was abandoned due to cracks in the granite, providing invaluable insight into the techniques used to create these monolithic monuments.

A brief summary to Unfinished Obelisk

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat, especially during summer months.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven terrain in the quarry.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and construction techniques used at the site.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Aswan and are a convenient way to reach the Unfinished Obelisk, which is located about 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) northeast of the city center. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. A typical short taxi ride within Aswan costs around 28-47 EGP. The journey from Aswan Airport to the Unfinished Obelisk is approximately 17 km and should take about 18 minutes, costing around 27.5 EGP.

  • Public Transport

    Aswan has a public bus system that can take you to the Unfinished Obelisk. Inquire about the specific bus routes and schedules at the local bus station or ask locals for guidance. The public ferry to the West Bank costs only 5 EGP.

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Discover more about Unfinished Obelisk

Nestled in the ancient granite quarries of Aswan, the Unfinished Obelisk is a testament to the ambitious engineering and architectural prowess of ancient Egyptians. Believed to have been commissioned by Queen Hatshepsut during the 18th Dynasty (circa 15th century BCE), this colossal obelisk was intended to be the largest ever constructed, measuring approximately 42 meters (138 feet) in height and weighing an estimated 1,200 tons. However, the project was abandoned when significant cracks appeared in the granite during the carving process. Today, the unfinished obelisk remains partially embedded in the bedrock, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the methods and challenges faced by ancient Egyptian stonemasons. The site reveals the techniques used to extract such massive stones, including the use of dolerite balls to pound away at the granite. Marks left by these tools are still visible on the obelisk's surface. Obelisks held great symbolic importance in ancient Egyptian culture, representing the connection between the pharaohs and the gods, particularly the sun god Ra. These monolithic monuments were typically erected in pairs at the entrances of temples, serving as iconic symbols of power and divinity. The Unfinished Obelisk provides a fascinating look into the construction of these impressive structures and the reasons why this particular one was never completed.

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