Who built the Sphinx of Egypt?
Most Egyptologists attribute the construction of the Great Sphinx of Giza to Pharaoh Khafre of the Fourth Dynasty (c. 2600 BCE), based on archaeological context and proximity to his pyramid and mortuary temple. However, no definitive inscriptions confirm this attribution.
Due to his reputation as a pyramid builder Khafre probably possessed sufficient financial means and spiritual drive to undertake this remarkable project. The Sphinx symbolizes pharaoh attributes because its lion body represents strength while its human head combines wisdom with protective properties of divinity. The Sphinx stands at 240 feet long and 66 feet tall as a natural limestone carving that displays impressive architectural achievements from that period.
Some researchers, including geologist Robert Schoch, propose that the Sphinx is older than commonly thought, potentially dating back to 7000 BCE, based on observed erosion patterns. This theory, however, remains disputed and is not broadly accepted within the Egyptology community.
The Sphinx was buried under sand during the reign of Pharaoh Thutmose IV, around 1400 BCE. An inscription on the "Dream Stele," placed between the Sphinx's paws, recounts a prophecy where the Sphinx promised Thutmose kingship in exchange for clearing and restoring the structures.
The Sphinx is admired for its role as a protector of the Giza plateau or as an ancient solar symbol. Although debate continues, most scholars believe the Sphinx was built during the reign of Khafre, and the statue likely portrays him.
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