Unfinished Obelisk, Lower Egypt Travel Guide

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Explore the Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan: Witness ancient Egyptian engineering and the story behind this colossal, abandoned monument.

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Unfinished Obelisk

The Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan offers a unique glimpse into ancient Egyptian stoneworking. Commissioned by Queen Hatshepsut, this colossal obelisk was abandoned due to cracks in the granite, revealing the techniques used to create these massive monuments.

A brief summary to Unfinished Obelisk

Aswan, Sheyakhah Oula, Aswan Governorate, EG
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Monday 7 am-4 pm
Tuesday 7 am-4 pm
Wednesday 7 am-4 pm
Thursday 7 am-4 pm
Friday 7 am-4 pm
Saturday 7 am-4 pm
Sunday 7 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Unfinished Obelisk.

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the intense heat, especially during summer.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the quarry site.
Bring water and sunscreen, as there is limited shade available.
Photography with a mobile phone is free.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Luxor Temple

Great Sphinx of Giza

Karnak

Abu Simbel Temples

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo

Explore Unfinished Obelisk on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Unfinished Obelisk, mapped for you.

Getting There

Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Aswan and offer a convenient way to reach the Unfinished Obelisk. A taxi ride from central Aswan takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Agree on a fare with the driver before starting your journey, typically ranging from 50-100 EGP. Confirm the return trip with the driver or arrange alternative transport.
Public Transport

Aswan has a public bus system that can take you to the Unfinished Obelisk. Inquire about specific routes and schedules at the local bus station or from locals. The cost is very affordable, but the journey may take longer. From the drop-off point, there might be a short walk to the site.
Walking

From Aswan Market, it is a 1.5 kilometer walk that would take approximately 20 minutes.

Discover more about Unfinished Obelisk

Located in the northern granite quarries of Aswan, the Unfinished Obelisk is a testament to the ambition and engineering prowess of the ancient Egyptians. Likely commissioned by Queen Hatshepsut during the 18th Dynasty (circa 15th century BCE), it was intended to be the largest obelisk ever erected. Had it been completed, it would have stood approximately 42 meters tall and weighed an estimated 1,200 tons.The obelisk's construction was abandoned when significant cracks were discovered in the granite. Today, it remains partially attached to the bedrock, providing invaluable insight into the methods used by ancient Egyptians to extract and shape stone. Visitors can observe the tool marks and the techniques employed, including the use of dolerite balls to pound away at the granite.Obelisks held great symbolic importance in ancient Egypt, representing a connection between the pharaohs and the gods. They were often erected in pairs at temple entrances to symbolize stability and power. The Unfinished Obelisk offers a unique perspective on these iconic monuments, showcasing the challenges and ingenuity involved in their creation.