sphinks

Sphinxes are large, serpentine creatures from Greek mythology, often depicted as having the body of a lion and the head of a human. The term "sphinx" is derived from the Greek word "sphinx," which means "to bite" or "to devour." In ancient Egypt, the Great Sphinx of Giza is a famous monument, carved from a single piece of limestone, with the body of a lion and the head of a human pharaoh, Khafre. This monument is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and is a symbol of ancient Egyptian architecture and engineering.

In Greek mythology, the Sphinx was a mythical creature that guarded the city of Thebes. It was said to have asked travelers a riddle, and if they could not answer it correctly, the Sphinx would devour them. The most famous version of this story involves Oedipus, who solved the riddle and was allowed to pass. The Sphinx then killed itself in despair after realizing it had devoured its own brother, Oedipus.

Sphinxes have also been depicted in various forms of art and literature throughout history. In modern times, the term "sphinx" is often used metaphorically to describe a complex or enigmatic problem that must be solved. The Great Sphinx of Giza remains a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of ancient Egyptian civilization.