Massive Sphinx Unearthed Near Giza Pyramids During Excavation

In a groundbreaking archaeological discovery, a colossal Sphinx statue has been unearthed near the Giza Pyramids, sending waves of excitement through the global Egyptology community. The newly uncovered monument, carved from sandstone and partially buried beneath centuries of desert sand, lies just a short distance from the world-renowned Great Sphinx and the Pyramid of Khafre.

The statue, estimated to be over 26 feet (8 meters) tall and stretching nearly 70 feet (21 meters) in length, features a traditional nemes headdress — a royal symbol commonly worn by ancient Egyptian pharaohs. Though weathered by time and the harsh desert environment, the statue retains intricate details along its body and face, including faint traces of what appear to be inscriptions and symbolic carvings near its base.

Archaeologists from Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities, in collaboration with an international team of researchers, began the excavation earlier this year after ground-penetrating radar detected unusual anomalies beneath the surface. What they found exceeded expectations: a second, previously unknown Sphinx that may rival the Great Sphinx of Giza in historical significance.

Restoration efforts are already underway. Scaffolding surrounds the statue, and teams of conservationists are using specialized tools to carefully remove sand, debris, and mineral deposits without damaging the fragile stone. Preliminary studies suggest that this newly discovered Sphinx could predate the Great Sphinx, which is traditionally attributed to Pharaoh Khafre and dated to around 2500 BCE.

“This is potentially one of the most important discoveries in decades,” said Dr. Hala Nasser, lead archaeologist on the project. “If this monument does indeed date back to an earlier period, it could radically shift our understanding of the development of monumental sculpture and royal symbolism in ancient Egypt.”

Experts are now examining whether the Sphinx was part of a larger temple complex or ceremonial causeway, as traces of nearby structures have been detected through satellite imaging. Inscriptions at the base — if fully deciphered — could reveal the identity of the pharaoh or deity the statue represents.

Public interest has surged, with authorities planning to gradually open the site to visitors once restoration reaches a stable phase. Meanwhile, scholars around the world are eagerly awaiting carbon dating results and further analysis that may shed light on a lesser-known chapter of Egypt’s ancient past.