The weight of evidence supports the claim that either Khafre or his father constructed the Sphinx during the Old Kingdom by either Khafre or his father. Read More!
The wonders at the Giza site weren't just the Pyramids. Standing right beside the pyramid is a scary looking statue, the face of a man and the body structure of a lion with a broken nose.
Who could have cut out the nose of this scary looking Pharaoh? How come he was modeled as a lion? Was a tyrant or what?
Like a flash of light, my mind was filled with many questions that my tour guide could not answer. Oh Yes! What exactly was the message they were trying to pass with this statue? If you are like me, this blog post is for you.
Who Built the Sphinx of Giza and Why?
Most scholars believe the Sphinx was built during the reign of Khafre (2558–2532 BC), the pharaoh responsible for the second-largest pyramid at Giza. However, some theories suggest it might have been built to commemorate Khafre's father, Khufu, the builder of the Great Pyramid.
This is because the Sphinx sits right next to it, and some believe the facial features resemble Khufu more. The purpose of the Sphinx is also a bit of a mystery, but it's generally believed to have been:
- Guardian symbol: Sphinxes were commonly used in ancient Egypt as guardians, so it likely served a similar role at Giza.
- Representation of the Pharaoh's power: The Sphinx's combination of a human head and a lion's body could symbolize the pharaoh's strength and intelligence.
While some fringe theories suggest the Sphinx is much older, the weight of evidence supports construction during the Old Kingdom by either Khafre or his father.
Carved Out of the Rock
The Great Sphinx of Giza was carved out of a type of sedimentary rock called limestone. The limestone for the Sphinx likely came from the very same bedrock plateau where it stands, which also served as the quarry for the nearby pyramids and other monuments.
A critical mind would assume and believe that something lies beneath the Sphinx, a dead body or some form of artifacts. Same here, I also concluded that the Khafre has been cemented under the sphinx since it is believed he is the face behind the Sphinx.
However, the Sphinx is not a tomb. As matter of fact, there is no archaeological evidence to suggest anyone is buried under the Great Sphinx of Giza. The Sphinx is a giant statue, not a tomb.
https://egypttravelblog.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-visiting-the-pyramids-and-sphinx/
Can I Go Inside the Sphinx of Giza?
No, You cannot go inside the Great Sphinx of Giza in the way that you can enter the pyramids. There are no internal chambers or passageways open to the public. Visitors can walk around the base of the Sphinx and view it from a designated distance.
However, there are some exclusive tours that offer special access to the enclosure around the Sphinx. These tours may allow you to get closer to the monument than the general public. Be sure to research and book such tours in advance if you are interested.
Check out my recommendations for tour package to Giza here:
Conclusion
The Great Sphinx of Giza stands as a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of ancient Egypt. While much has been learned about this iconic monument, the Sphinx continues to hold its secrets close.
The exact date of construction and the identity it portrays remain open to debate, and have captivated travelers for millennia. Whether you choose to explore the Giza plateau with a knowledgeable guide or wander its expanse independently, the Sphinx is sure to leave a lasting impression.