The real riddles of the Sphinx

Discovery

For something so large, it seems strange that even a section entitled ' discovery '; How could the Sphinx-i.e. 71 meters high, and six metres wide-ever are hidden?

Thanks to the desert location, the great Sphinx of Giza spent a large part of the 5,000-year history buried under huge piles of sand. Although several excavations were tried throughout history, it wasn't until 1925 that the landmark fully excavated and free of sand.

It was only when the entire excavation was completely that the modern story of intrigue and fascination began with the Sphinx. It is a love that go beyond scientific Egyptologists extends; the Sphinx is one of the most visited sights in all of Egypt.

Guardian of the dead

It is believed-although not definitively known-that Sphinx as a guardian over the pyramids of Giza. The site, known as the Giza Necropolis, contains the famous Pyramid of the same name of the area built by Pharaoh Chephren in 2500 BC. First and foremost as pyramids funeral tombs for remarkable dignity, it seems useful that the Sphinx was founded to stand guard over alleged thieves and looted; a persistent problem in the Egyptian antiquity.

However, the exact date of or reason for the Sphinx erection is relatively unknown. There are many theories, and some scientific study of the possible life, but nothing specific has ever fully are derived. It is not referenced in any form of minutes. General consensus in modern Egyptology is that the Sphinx is approximately 5000 years old.

Who nose?

If you'll forgive a terrible pun, it's time to one of the most intriguing aspects of the structure to explore: to whom belongs the face? Most Egyptian architecture and engraving depicted a specific person-usually the Pharaoh, or a member of the royal dynasty-so it is generally assumed to be the face of the Sphinx is actually based on a person.

There are many, many theories, showing a wrestling would extrapolate a certain consensus Egyptologists. Some believe the face is that of chephren, who the great pyramid of Giza, while others are equally insistent that the face of Chephron, of chephren predecessor is built. In essence, however, no one knows.

Another intriguing aspect of the face of the Sphinx is the nose; or the lack thereof. There are many rumors around the nose of the Sphinx, including that it was blasted off during the Napoleonic wars, although this is largely considered a myth. General consensus suggests the nose fell off, or is hacked by thieves, approximately 2500 years ago.

Legacy

Having regard to the fact that such basic facts about the Sphinx is unknown, her place in the Egyptian history more impressive. About 5,000 years after it was first built, it still stands guardian about the dig it protects, and keeps her secrets to themselves.

Visit for more information about the history, tourism and attractions of the beautiful country of Egypt, Egypt Online Guide.

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