The Alabaster Sphinx

The Alabaster Sphinx

The Alabaster Sphinx

The Alabaster Sphinx

Alright, let’s talk about the Alabaster Sphinx, and honestly, if you’re only thinking about the big one at Giza, you’re missing out. Deep inside what’s left of Memphis (no, not the one with Elvis), there’s this smooth, slightly mystical figure just lounging there, mostly ignored by crowds chasing after pyramids. Unlike its limestone cousin showing off at Giza, this sphinx is carved out of a single, creamy chunk of Egyptian alabaster—pretty rare stuff, apparently, and the kind of stone the ancients saved for the best of the best.

 

Description

So what’s the deal with this thing? Size-wise, it’s not going to win any contests—about four meters tall, eight long—big, yeah, but not colossal. Still, don’t let that fool you. This statue packs a punch in terms of history and meaning. People think it popped up during the 18th Dynasty, which was one of Egypt’s golden ages. Honestly, nobody can say for sure if it was Amenhotep II or Hatshepsut who ordered it, because, classic ancient Egypt, there’s not a single helpful inscription. Thanks for nothing, pharaohs.

The sphinx showed up near the Temple of Ptah, who was the big cheese in Memphis’s religious scene. Chances are, it was posted up outside, looking fierce, basically a supernatural bouncer for the temple—‘cause, you know, what better way to show divine power than by mashing up a king’s head on a lion’s body? That combo is everywhere in Egypt, and here it shouts, “Yeah, I’m wise but I’ll also wreck you if you step out of line.” And the stone—alabaster—glows in the sun like it’s got its own Instagram filter. The face is all calm and collected, but that body says, don’t mess with me.

Even after centuries of weather, looting, and, well, historical neglect, the whole thing stays chill. Most casual tourists breeze past, but this sphinx is still there, sunk into the dusty ground, ringed by old trees and bits and pieces of ancient Memphis.

Now, if you’re willing to get out of the minivan and see something a little less “main event,” you should absolutely check this thing out. It’s right by the open-air museum at Mit Rahina—you wander around, find a weird quiet, and suddenly there’s this monumental presence just lying there like it knows every secret from the last 3,000 years. No crowds, no jostling for selfies, just you and a silent guardian.

Honestly, it’s kind of magical. And it fits right in with the whole Memphis mood: a little mysterious, hugely important, slightly overlooked. Toss in a visit to Ramses II’s absolutely ridiculous colossal statue and the weirdly step-tacular Pyramid of Saqqara, and you’ve got yourself a proper Egyptian day, no tour-bus clichés required.

Advice for Visitors

  • Located in Mit Rahina, next to Saqqara, the site is easily accessible by car or as part of a guided tour.
  • Consider complementing your visit with other Memphis attractions such as the open-air museum.
  • The site is quiet and serene, creating excellent opportunities for photography and lapses of slow time.
  • There is little shade so ensure you bring a hat and water with you, particularly if you are visiting when the weather is warm.

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