Unfinished Obelisk

The Unfinished Obelisk is a massive ancient Egyptian monument located in the quarry of Aswan, where it was abandoned during its construction. This obelisk, if completed, would have been one of the largest and most impressive obelisks ever erected in ancient Egypt, measuring around 42 meters (138 feet) in height and weighing approximately 1,200 tons.

The obelisk was commissioned by an unknown pharaoh, and it was carved directly from the bedrock of the quarry. The project, however, was abandoned before the obelisk could be finished or transported to its intended location. The reason for the abandonment is still debated, with some theories suggesting that cracks appeared in the stone during the carving process, making it unsuitable for completion. Others believe that the death of the pharaoh who ordered its construction may have led to the work being halted.

Despite its incomplete state, the Unfinished Obelisk offers valuable insight into the methods used by ancient Egyptians in the construction of these monumental structures. The process of carving the obelisk from solid granite can be clearly seen, with markings from workers’ tools still visible on the stone. The quarry site also contains the remains of other obelisks that were never finished, further emphasizing the scale and ambition of ancient Egyptian monumental architecture.

The Unfinished Obelisk is a fascinating site that allows visitors to imagine the scale and effort that went into the construction of these massive monuments. It is one of the few places where one can directly witness the process of ancient stone-carving and offers a unique perspective on Egypt's architectural prowess.