Where is the Great Sphinx Located?

Have you ever heard of the word ‘Chimera’? Well, Chimera means an animal with multiple DNA combinations. The word comes from Greek mythology for a creature who had a body combined of three animals. With different mythologies, we have the stories of different versions of these mythical beings. However, this is not about these creatures but a sculptural monument that looks like a chimera from the Ancient kingdom of Egypt. This ancient piece is called The Great Sphinx; sphinx means a creature having a human head, a lion body with wings. The word Sphinx also comes from Greek mythology. Let’s get to know about the Great Sphinx in detail in this article. 

The Great Sphinx: Overview

The Great Sphinx is located on the west bank of The Nile River, Cairo, in Giza Plateau along with The Great Pyramid of Giza, The Pyramid of Khafre, and The Pyramid of Menkaure at Giza Necropolis, Greater Cairo, Egypt. It is the oldest known sculptural structure in Egypt. The Giza Pyramid Complex also has some mini pyramids probably of queens or some important entities, a Sphinx temple, and an architecture village.

The Great Sphinx: History

The mega figure is believed to be erected during Pharaoh Khafre’s reign under his command around C. 2558-2532 BC. Though according to some other sources, it is believed that it might be built by his older brother, Redjedef, in the memory of their father, Pharaoh Khufu, whose tomb is known as The Great Pyramid of Giza. 

Amazingly, the name it is popular with is not its actual native name. The word ‘sphinx’ is created by the ancient Greeks almost a century after. ‘Hor-Em-akhet’, which means ‘Horus of the horizon, was the name given by Egyptian monarchs in respect of the sun god. The structure we see today is a beat-up version of its original self. It is believed that Sphinx’s nose was destroyed during one of the French military battles near Giza during the French campaign in Egypt around 1798. On contrary, some sources account Mohamed Saaem el-dahr for its destruction. But many archaeologists conclude that it is done by nature, probably erosion, wind, etc.

The Great Sphinx: Design

The megastructure measures 73m long, and 19m wide and stands at 20m in height. It was originally shaped from Bedrock and then cloaked with layers of limestone. It has a human head probably representing Pharaoh Khafre and the rest of the body of a lion. The beard and nose are missing from its face which was destroyed over time. It faces directly towards the east, facing the sun each morning.

The Great Sphinx: Why It Was Built?

The motive behind its creation is not clear. Archaeologists believe it was built by Egyptians to guard important parts such as tombs and temples. Moreover, from some other sources, it comes out that it was built solely to commemorate King Khufu by his elder son. Yet many say that it was built in regard to the sun god.

The Great Sphinx: Did You Know?

• The Great Sphinx is not as same as a traditional mythical sphinx as defined by its origin because according to Greek Mythology, the sphinx is said to have a lion body with a lady head and wings but the Great Sphinx only shares one similarity.
• The work was taken out in a hurry. It could have been better, says the archaeologists who found architect tools in the temple along with the trashes of lunch packs.
• The Sphinx is believed to have a colorful structure once with a complete nose and a beard. Probably in a red-blue combination.
• In the Ancient Kingdom, Egyptians believed that the Sphinx would protect the Pyramids and the complex while sitting there quietly, but her Greek cousin was not the same as her. For Greek people, the Sphinx is said to bring havoc upon them.

Bottom Line:

As this is one of the most ancient monuments, we might know very less about it but one thing is certain; the mysteries will open up themselves someday for sure. Well, talking about the mega figure, it is worth visiting. It might not be so romantic as sitting on a boat passing the Seine River in Paris but it is a paradise for Ancient history lovers.