When people think of Ancient Egypt architecture, the towering Pyramid of Giza often steals the spotlight. But just nearby stands another mysterious marvel—the Great Sphinx of Giza statue, half-lion, half-man, eternally guarding the desert. It’s one of the world’s most iconic monuments, measuring 73.5 meters (241 feet) long and 20 meters (66 feet) high. But beyond its fame, a few burning questions arise: How big is the Great Sphinx of Giza? When was the Great Sphinx built? Whose face is on the Sphinx?
How Big Is the Great Sphinx of Giza Compared To Other Statues?
So, let’s talk size.
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Length of the Sphinx of Giza: 73 meters (about 240 feet)
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Height of the Great Sphinx: 20 meters (66 feet)
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Width at the paws: Around 19 meters (62 feet)
This makes the Sphinx one of the largest statues in ancient Egypt—second only to the Great Pyramid in scale and influence.
Want a Sphinx vs Pyramid size comparison? While the Pyramid stands around 138 meters tall today, the Sphinx is 20 meters tall—but carved from a single block of limestone. So while it’s shorter, it’s incredibly impressive given it wasn’t built stone by stone—it was sculpted directly from the earth!
These Sphinx measurements Egypt style clearly show why it’s such a monumental achievement.
What Is the Great Sphinx Made Of?
The Great Sphinx head and body were carved from soft limestone bedrock that was exposed on the Giza Plateau. This natural rock formation was sculpted into its current shape around 2500 BC. Over the centuries, the stone has weathered, giving the Sphinx its rough surface today.
The nose and beard are missing now, but you can still see hints of the original detailing. So if you’re wondering, What did the Sphinx originally look like?—it may have had bright red paint, intricate facial features, and even a royal headdress. Parts of a ceremonial beard were found in fragments!
When Was the Sphinx Built and By Whom?
Ah, the big question: When was the Sphinx built and by whom?
Most scholars agree that the Sphinx was constructed during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre, around 2558–2532 BC. That’s over 4,500 years ago. So to answer:
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When was the Sphinx built? → Around 2500 BC
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When was the Great Sphinx built? → Same period, under Khafre’s rule
It was likely built as part of his pyramid complex, serving both spiritual and symbolic purposes.
Still, some people wonder: Is the Sphinx 26,000 years old? This theory comes from alternative historians and fringe theorists who believe erosion patterns suggest the Sphinx is far older. However, mainstream Egyptology has not supported this claim.
Whose Face Is on the Sphinx?
So, Whose face is on the Sphinx?
Most Egyptologists believe it’s Pharaoh Khafre, who ruled during Egypt’s 4th dynasty. The facial structure, though worn, resembles his statues found nearby. That said, erosion has made it tough to be 100% sure.
Some alternative theories suggest it might be another pharaoh—or not a pharaoh at all. The Mystery of the Great Sphinx remains part of its timeless charm.
Where Is the Sphinx Located?
Wondering Where is the Sphinx located? You’ll find this mighty monument on the Giza Plateau, just outside of Cairo, Egypt. It sits southeast of the three pyramids, perfectly aligned to face the sunrise.
This makes it a central piece among Giza Plateau landmarks and a must-see tourist site: Giza Sphinx.
Sphinx of Giza Size and Scale
Let’s revisit those Sphinx of Giza size details in quick facts:
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How tall is the Sphinx in Egypt? → 20 meters (66 feet)
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How long is the Sphinx? → 73 meters (240 feet)
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Great Sphinx dimensions? → 73m (L) x 19m (W) x 20m (H)
To help visualize it, the Sphinx is about as long as a Boeing 747 jet and as tall as a six-story building!
That’s why Egyptian Sphinx size comparison charts often show it alongside modern monuments to give it justice.
Why Is the Great Sphinx So Famous?
The Sphinx is more than just a monument—it’s a mystery, a symbol, and a survivor. The Sphinx Giza monument is revered for:
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Its mysterious missing nose
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Its ancient age and craftsmanship
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Its place near the Pyramids
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Its timeless look that sparks the imagination
Over the centuries, sand buried it, conquerors marveled at it, and researchers puzzled over it. Today, it’s a star attraction, drawing millions of tourists yearly.
Fun and Strange Sphinx of Giza Facts
Here are some lesser-known Sphinx of Giza facts:
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Its tail wraps around the right paw—many miss this detail!
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It may have originally had bright paint on its body and face.
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Napoleon didn’t destroy its nose—it was likely damaged earlier by religious zealots.
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It was buried in sand up to its shoulders for most of its history.
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The Great Sphinx of Giza statue might have had a symbolic beard—pieces of it are in the British Museum.
The Connection Between the Sphinx and the Pyramids
The Sphinx and pyramids are closely tied in both history and symbolism. The Sphinx’s statue, believed to represent the Pharaoh Khafre, sits in front of his pyramid complex. This positioning suggests that the Sphinx was part of the larger royal burial complex designed to protect the pharaoh in the afterlife. Together, the Sphinx and the pyramids embody the might and religious significance of ancient Egypt.
The Sphinx’s Statue: A Marvel of Ancient Egypt
Standing at 20 meters (66 feet) tall and 73.5 meters (241 feet) long, the Sphinx’s statue is an engineering marvel. The statue is carved from a single mass of limestone and is one of the largest monolithic statues in the world. Its lion body and human head are thought to symbolize strength and wisdom, characteristics associated with the pharaohs. The face of the Sphinx is widely believed to depict Pharaoh Khafre, though some historians suggest it may represent another ruler.
Planning to See the Sphinx in Person?
If you’re planning a trip to Egypt, here’s how to visit:
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📍 Where: Giza Plateau, near Cairo
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🕗 When: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (daily)
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🏛️ Tickets: Around 200–300 EGP, or part of pyramid complex entry
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🧭 What else: Includes access to the Pyramid of Giza, temples, and more
To truly appreciate the Great Sphinx dimensions, there’s nothing like standing right in front of it.
Best Ways to Experience the Sphinx
To make the most of your visit, try:
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🐪 Camel rides in front of the Sphinx
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📷 Sunrise or sunset photography tours
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🎧 Guided history tours explaining Ancient Egypt architecture
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🎭 The Sound and Light Show at night—it’s epic!
These experiences help you connect the Great Sphinx of Giza with its rich past and help answer all those burning questions like How big is the Great Sphinx of Giza compared to other landmarks?
Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Statue
So now you know:
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How big is the Great Sphinx of Giza? → 73m long, 20m tall
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When was the Sphinx built and by whom? → Around 2500 BC, by Pharaoh Khafre
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Whose face is on the Sphinx? → Likely Khafre’s
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Is the Sphinx 26,000 years old? → No, but that’s a popular theory
Whether you’re fascinated by its sheer size or the many Sphinx of Giza facts, one thing’s clear: this monument is more than rock—it’s history, mystery, and a symbol of Egypt itself.
And if you’re lucky enough to visit, you won’t just be seeing the Sphinx Giza monument—you’ll be walking in the footsteps of ancient kings.
🧠 Frequently Asked Questions About the Great Sphinx of Giza
How big is the Sphinx of Giza?
The Great Sphinx of Giza is 73.5 meters (241 feet) long, 20 meters (66 feet) high, and about 19 meters (62 feet) wide at the paws. It’s one of the largest and oldest monolithic statues in the world!
Can I touch the Sphinx?
No, visitors are not allowed to touch the Sphinx. Due to preservation efforts, tourists must view it from a short distance. But you can still get close enough for great photos!
Is the Sphinx 26,000 years old in Egypt?
This is a debated theory. Some alternative researchers claim the Sphinx is 26,000 years old, based on weathering patterns. However, most Egyptologists believe it was built around 2500 BC during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre—making it about 4,500 years old.
What is buried under the Sphinx?
Some believe there are hidden chambers or tunnels beneath the Sphinx. Ground-penetrating radar has revealed cavities, but what lies beneath remains a mystery. So far, no official excavation has confirmed anything monumental buried under the Sphinx.
Why is no one allowed in the Sphinx?
The Sphinx is extremely fragile due to its age and erosion. For safety and preservation reasons, no one is allowed to go inside the Sphinx or climb on it.
What kills a Sphinx?
The mythology, Sphinxes are mythical creatures. In Greek stories, they are killed when someone answers their riddles. In real life, natural erosion, wind, and pollution are the main threats to the Great Sphinx.
Can you go inside the Sphinx?
No. There is no known internal chamber accessible to the public. There have been studies about possible underground areas, but currently, you cannot go inside the Sphinx.
Why did the Sphinx lose its nose?
The nose of the Sphinx was deliberately removed, possibly by iconoclasts in the 15th century. Contrary to popular myth, it wasn’t destroyed by Napoleon. Evidence shows the nose was chiseled off long before his time.
How old is the country Egypt?
Egypt is one of the oldest civilizations in the world, dating back over 5,000 years. The unified Egyptian state was formed around 3100 BC by Pharaoh Narmer.
What killed the Sphinx?
The Sphinx hasn’t been “killed”, but its structure has been damaged over time by natural erosion, wind, acid rain, and human interference. Restoration efforts are ongoing to protect it.
Are there 2 Sphinx in Egypt?
There is only one major Great Sphinx of Giza, but there are smaller sphinx statues scattered across Egypt—especially at temples like Karnak and Luxor. However, none compare in scale to the Great Sphinx.
Is there a room under the Sphinx?
Some theories and radar scans suggest there may be chambers beneath the Sphinx, but their purpose and contents are unknown. So far, no official entry into a room under the Sphinx has been made public.
Are the Sphinx evil?
Not at all! In Egyptian culture, the Sphinx is a protective symbol, representing strength and wisdom. However, in Greek mythology, the Sphinx was seen as more dangerous, posing riddles to travelers.
What are the three riddles of the Sphinx?
In Greek myth, the most famous Sphinx asked one riddle, not three:
“What walks on four legs in the morning, two legs at noon, and three legs in the evening?”
Answer: A human (crawls as a baby, walks on two feet as an adult, uses a cane in old age).
There’s no record of the Egyptian Sphinx asking riddles.
Can a Sphinx fly?
In mythology, Greek sphinxes often had wings and could fly. But the Egyptian Sphinx, like the one in Giza, has no wings and was never associated with flight.
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