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The Great Sphinx of Giza: Ancient Guardian

Explore the enigmatic Great Sphinx of Giza, an ancient wonder and iconic symbol of Egyptian history, mystery, and architectural prowess.

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The Great Sphinx of Giza, a monumental limestone statue with the body of a lion and the head of a human, stands as a timeless symbol of ancient Egypt. Carved around 2500 BCE, it is believed to represent the Pharaoh Khafre and served as a guardian of the Giza Necropolis. Its sheer size and enigmatic presence continue to captivate visitors from around the world.

A brief summary to Great Sphinx of Giza

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the intense heat, especially during the summer months.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on sand.
  • Stay hydrated by bringing water, especially during the hotter months.
  • Bargain with vendors before agreeing to any purchases or services, such as camel rides.
  • Be respectful of the site and its history, and avoid climbing on the Sphinx or any of the surrounding monuments.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From downtown Cairo, a taxi is a convenient way to reach the Great Sphinx. The ride typically takes 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis can be found throughout Cairo, or booked via apps like Uber or Careem. Expect to pay around $1-2 for the trip. Be sure to agree on a fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Sphinx via public transport from Cairo, take Metro Line 2 to Giza station. From there, you can catch a local bus or microbus to the Giza Plateau. The bus ride takes approximately 15 minutes. The metro fare is minimal, and the bus fare is also very affordable. This option is budget-friendly but can be more time-consuming.

  • Car

    If driving, head southwest on Champollion Road towards El-Shaikh Marouf, then take the Nile Corniche Road and follow Route 75M to El-Malek Fouad in Nazlet El-Semman. Continue along Abou Al Hool Al Seiahi to the Pyramids of Giza. Parking is available near the Great Pyramid entrance and the Marriott Mena House Hotel. Parking fees are around LE 10. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours.

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Discover more about Great Sphinx of Giza

The Great Sphinx of Giza is one of the most iconic monuments in the world, located on the Giza Plateau near Cairo. This colossal statue, with the body of a lion and the head of a human, stretches 73 meters (240 feet) long and stands 20 meters (66 feet) high. It is believed to have been built during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre around 2500 BCE. The Sphinx is made from limestone bedrock, and its head is thought to be a depiction of the Pharaoh himself, wearing a royal headdress. For centuries, the Sphinx was buried under the sand and largely forgotten until it was rediscovered and excavated in the 19th century. Today, it stands as a testament to the architectural and engineering prowess of the ancient Egyptians. The statue faces east, aligning with the rising sun, which may symbolize the king's connection to the sun god. The Great Sphinx has captivated historians, archaeologists, and tourists for centuries, sparking fascination due to its deep ties to Egyptian mythology and the powerful symbolism it embodies. Visitors can explore the Sphinx and the surrounding Giza Necropolis, which includes the pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. The site offers guided tours, camel rides, and breathtaking views of the Sphinx and pyramids. The Giza Plateau, where the Sphinx resides, is undergoing renovations aimed at improving the visitor experience and promoting eco-friendly practices.

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