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The Great Sphinx of Giza: Ancient Guardian

Marvel at the Great Sphinx of Giza, an iconic symbol of ancient Egyptian history and a testament to the grandeur of the pharaohs.

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The Great Sphinx of Giza, a colossal limestone statue with the body of a lion and the head of a human, stands as a timeless symbol of ancient Egypt. Believed to have been built around 2500 BCE during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre, it's one of the world's largest and oldest monolithic statues. Located on the Giza Plateau near Cairo, the Sphinx continues to inspire awe and wonder.

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 for walking on uneven surfaces and sand.
  • Stay hydrated by bringing a reusable water bottle, as temperatures can be very high.
  • Bargain with vendors when shopping for souvenirs, but be cautious of aggressive sales tactics.
  • Check the official website for the latest ticket prices and opening hours.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Cairo city center, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Careem) is a convenient way to reach the Great Sphinx. The journey typically takes 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between 350 and 1000 EGP, but be sure to agree on a fare with the driver before starting your trip.

  • Public Transport

    Take Metro Line 1 to the Giza Metro Station. From there, take a local bus or microbus to the Giza Plateau. The bus ride takes approximately 15 minutes. This option is more budget-friendly, with the metro fare being just a few Egyptian pounds and the bus fare also being very affordable.

  • Driving

    If driving from Cairo, head southwest on Champollion Road towards El-Shaikh Marouf. Follow the Nile Corniche Road and route 75M to El-Malek Fouad in Nazlet El-Semman. Then, continue along Abou Al Hool Al Seiahi to the Pyramids of Giza. Parking is available near the Great Pyramid entrance, outside the Marriot Mena House hotel. Parking fees are around LE 10.

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Discover more about Great Sphinx of Giza

The Great Sphinx of Giza is an iconic monument that has captivated travelers and historians for millennia. Carved from a single piece of limestone, the Sphinx measures approximately 73 meters (240 feet) long and 20 meters (66 feet) high. It is located on the Giza Plateau, on the west bank of the Nile in Giza, Egypt. Most scholars believe the Sphinx was built during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre (c. 2558–2532 BC). The statue is thought to depict Khafre himself, wearing the royal headdress, and was likely intended to guard his tomb. The face of the Sphinx remains a topic of scholarly debate, with some suggesting it may represent Pharaoh Khufu or Djedefre. Over the centuries, the Sphinx has been subject to both natural erosion and human intervention. It was buried in sand for long periods, and has undergone several restoration efforts. The circumstances surrounding the loss of its nose are uncertain, with theories ranging from cannon fire to deliberate destruction. Despite the damage, the Great Sphinx remains a powerful symbol of ancient Egyptian civilization, drawing tourists and researchers from around the globe. The Giza Plateau, where the Sphinx resides, is open to visitors daily. Exploring the Sphinx allows visitors to marvel at the scale and architectural details of this ancient structure. Nearby attractions include the Great Pyramids, the Solar Boat Museum, and the Valley Temple.

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