Ep 21. Guardian of the Ages: The Great Sphinx
- June 12, 1997
Guardian of the Ages: The Great Sphinx is the 21st episode of season 4 of Ancient Mysteries. In this episode, the show explores one of the world's most iconic landmarks - the Great Sphinx of Giza.
The Sphinx is a massive statue of a lion with the head of a human located in Giza, Egypt, near the pyramids of Giza. It stands at 66 feet tall and 240 feet long, and it is believed to be one of the oldest and most famous structures in the world. The Sphinx has been a subject of numerous theories and legends, with some claiming that it has magical powers or serves as a gateway to the afterlife.
The episode begins with a brief history of Ancient Egypt, from its pre-dynastic period to the construction of the pyramids and the Sphinx during the Old Kingdom. The show delves into the mystery behind the Sphinx's creation, including how it was built, who built it, and why it was built. The episode also explores the Sphinx's various features, including its enigmatic smile, the hieroglyphs inscribed on its body, and its missing nose.
The show interviews various experts in Egyptology, archaeology, and ancient history to gather insights into the Sphinx's construction and significance. These experts share their theories on how the Sphinx was built, including the use of ramps and pulleys to move the massive stones that make up its body. The episode also explores the possibility that the Sphinx was built for astronomical purposes and how its position aligns with the stars.
The episode also investigates the many legends and myths associated with the Sphinx. One of the most famous theories is that the Sphinx's original face was that of an African King and not a Pharaoh. Another legend is that the Sphinx serves as a guardian and holds the key to the mysteries of the ancient world. The show examines the evidence for these legends and investigates whether there is any truth behind them.
As the episode draws to a close, the show explores the ongoing restoration work being carried out on the Sphinx to ensure its preservation for future generations. The episode concludes by asking the question of what the Sphinx represents to the modern world and what we can learn from it.
Guardian of the Ages: The Great Sphinx is a fascinating episode that provides insights into one of the most mysterious and iconic landmarks in the world. Whether you are an Ancient Egypt enthusiast or just curious about history, this episode is definitely worth watching.
