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The Great Sphinx of Giza: Guardian of the Pyramids

Explore the enigmatic Great Sphinx of Giza, a timeless symbol of ancient Egypt's power, wisdom, and enduring legacy, standing guard over the pyramids.

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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 an iconic symbol of ancient Egypt. Believed to have been built around 2500 BC during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre, it continues to captivate visitors with its enigmatic presence and rich history.

A brief summary to Great Sphinx of Giza

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat, and to capture the best lighting for photographs.
  • Purchase tickets at the main ticket booth in front of the Giza Plateau to access the Sphinx and other monuments.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the Giza Plateau, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Be prepared to bargain if you choose to take a camel ride around the site, and always agree on a price beforehand.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the hotter months, to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From anywhere in Giza or Cairo, a taxi offers a direct route to the Great Sphinx. Taxis are readily available, and it's advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey. A taxi ride from downtown Cairo to the Giza Plateau typically takes around 18 minutes and costs approximately $1-2. From Giza city center, the ride is shorter and less expensive. Ensure the taxi driver knows the location, as there are multiple entrances to the Giza Plateau. The general entrance ticket includes access to the Sphinx area. Typical taxi fare from downtown Cairo: 30-60 EGP.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Great Sphinx via public transport from downtown Cairo, take Metro Line 2 to Giza Station. From there, cross the road and take a public bus heading towards the pyramids. The bus journey takes approximately 25 minutes. Alight at the end of Al-Haram Street, where you can walk to the entrance of the Giza Plateau. Alternatively, from Giza station, you can take a taxi or Uber to the Sphinx. The general entrance ticket includes access to the Sphinx area. Metro fare: 5 EGP. Bus fare: 5 EGP.

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Discover more about Great Sphinx of Giza

The Great Sphinx of Giza, one of the world's most recognizable monuments, stands on the Giza Plateau near the pyramids, embodying the grandeur and mystery of ancient Egypt. Carved from a single mass of limestone, the Sphinx features the body of a lion and the head of a human, believed to represent Pharaoh Khafre. Measuring approximately 73 meters (240 feet) long and 20 meters (66 feet) high, it is one of the largest and oldest monolithic statues in the world. Originally painted in vibrant colors, with the head and face in red, the headdress in yellow, and the beard in blue, the Sphinx faces east, possibly symbolizing the king's connection to the sun god. Over the centuries, it has been buried in sand multiple times, with various pharaohs, including Thutmose IV, ordering its excavation and restoration. The statue is missing its nose and the ceremonial cobra symbol that once adorned its headdress. Fragments of the beard are preserved in the British Museum in London. The Sphinx has long been thought to be a guardian of the Giza Plateau, protecting the tombs and temples from intruders. Its image has become synonymous with ancient Egypt, inspiring awe and wonder in visitors from around the globe. Exploring the Great Sphinx offers a glimpse into the remarkable engineering skills, religious beliefs, and cultural practices of this ancient civilization. Visitors can walk up to the entrance of the Sphinx and admire the sculpture up close. While exploring the area, take time to visit the Dream Stele, located between the Sphinx's paws, which recounts a story of how a pharaoh claimed his divine right to the throne. For a breathtaking view of the Sphinx and the pyramids, climb to the panoramic viewpoint.

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