Background

Heliopolis Obelisk: A Testament to Ancient Egyptian Splendor

Witness the enduring legacy of ancient Heliopolis at the Obelisk of Senusret I, a towering monument with millennia of history in Cairo.

4.2

The Heliopolis Obelisk, also known as the Obelisk of Senusret I, stands as a solitary beacon of the once-great city of Heliopolis, near modern-day Cairo. Erected during the Middle Kingdom in the 20th century BC, it is one of the oldest obelisks still standing in its original location. This towering monument offers a glimpse into the rich history and religious significance of ancient Egypt.

A brief summary to Heliopolis Obelisk - Obelisk of Snosert I

  • 119 Taha Hussein, El Matareya, Ein Shams Al Gharbeyah, Cairo Governorate, EG
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the obelisk in the soft morning light.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to other historical sites in the Heliopolis area to fully appreciate the region's rich past.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you may need to walk across uneven surfaces to reach the obelisk.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central Cairo (e.g., Tahrir Square), take the Cairo Metro to a station near Heliopolis, such as Bab el Shaaria. From there, transfer to a local bus or taxi to reach the obelisk in El Matareya. The bus and metro combined will cost approximately 2 EGP.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Cairo city center, a taxi or ride-sharing service is a direct way to reach the Heliopolis Obelisk. A typical ride from downtown Cairo to El Matareya can cost between 30 to 50 EGP, depending on traffic and the specific location. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Unlock the Best of Heliopolis Obelisk - Obelisk of Snosert I

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Heliopolis Obelisk - Obelisk of Snosert I

Located in the El Matareya district of Cairo, the Heliopolis Obelisk is a remarkable survivor from the ancient city of Heliopolis, a major religious and intellectual center dedicated to the sun gods Ra and Atum. Erected by Pharaoh Senusret I of the Twelfth Dynasty, around 1930 BC, the 21-meter (69-foot) red granite obelisk has stood for nearly 4,000 years. Heliopolis, meaning "City of the Sun," was renowned for its temples, obelisks, and as a center for astronomy, philosophy, and theology. The city's scholars and priests played a crucial role in shaping ancient Egyptian religious beliefs and scientific knowledge. Although much of Heliopolis was destroyed over time, with its stones repurposed for the construction of medieval Cairo, the Obelisk of Senusret I remains as a powerful reminder of its glorious past. The obelisk itself is made from red granite and weighs an impressive 120 tons. The inscriptions on all four sides commemorate Senusret I's jubilee. In the surrounding area, visitors can also find remnants of other structures, including a small open-air museum with a quartzite obelisk from the 6th Dynasty and the base of another obelisk dating back to the 18th Dynasty. These artifacts offer further insights into the long and fascinating history of Heliopolis. Standing in its original location, the Heliopolis Obelisk provides a tangible link to ancient Egypt, inviting visitors to reflect on the enduring legacy of this once-great city.

Popular Experiences near Heliopolis Obelisk - Obelisk of Snosert I

Popular Hotels near Heliopolis Obelisk - Obelisk of Snosert I

Select Currency