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Archaeological site · Aswan, Aswan
Unfinished Obelisk
Granite obelisk that cracked during quarrying and remained attached to the bedrock in an ancient Aswan quarry, showing how the Egyptians cut these pieces.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Unfinished Obelisk
The Unfinished Obelisk lies in a granite quarry in the southern part of the town. Attributed to the time of Queen Hatshepsut, it would have been about 42 meters high if completed, taller than any known obelisk, but a crack appeared during work and it was abandoned still attached to the rock.
In the quarry you can see the marks of the cutters: the channels around the piece and the marks from the dolerite hammerstones used to batter the rock. Walkways allow you to look down on the obelisk.
Aswan’s quarries supplied the red granite for many temples, obelisks and statues of ancient Egypt.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About half an hour to an hour.
Best time
In the morning, before the quarry heats up.
How to get there
By taxi, about 2 km from Aswan center.
Tip
Combine it with the Temple of Philae and the High Dam, on the same route to the south.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Unfinished Obelisk
What is the Unfinished Obelisk?
A granite obelisk that cracked during quarrying and remained attached to the bedrock in an ancient Aswan quarry.
How tall would the Unfinished Obelisk have been?
About 42 meters high, if it had been completed.
Where is the Unfinished Obelisk located?
In a granite quarry about 2 km from the center.