Unfinished Obelisk

The Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan is often described as an important archaeological site, but in reality, the experience can feel underwhelming unless you already have a strong academic interest in ancient stone-cutting techniques. The site itself is essentially a large granite quarry with a single main attraction: the massive obelisk still attached to the bedrock. While its size is impressive and it does provide insight into how ancient Egyptians carved obelisks, the visit is very short and limited. There is not much to explore beyond walking around the obelisk, reading a few information signs, and taking photos. One of the main drawbacks is the lack of detailed explanations. The information provided on-site is minimal, and without a guide, it is difficult to fully understand the historical context or significance. For many visitors, it may feel like you are simply looking at a large stone rather than experiencing a meaningful archaeological attraction. The area is also exposed and unshaded, which makes visiting particularly uncomfortable during hot weather. There are few facilities, limited seating, and almost no effort to enhance the visitor experience. Compared to other historical sites in Aswan, the Unfinished Obelisk feels poorly presented and not very engaging. Another issue is value for money. Considering the entrance fee and the short time required to see everything (often no more than 15–20 minutes), many travelers may feel that the visit does not justify the cost, especially when Aswan offers far richer and more visually impressive sites nearby. Overall, the Unfinished Obelisk may appeal to history enthusiasts or specialists, but for the average traveler, it is likely to be disappointing. Without better interpretation, improved facilities, or a more immersive presentation, this site remains more of a brief stop than a memorable highlight. A lower rating reflects the limited experience rather than the historical importance of the monument itself.

Located in the ancient granite quarries of Aswan, Egypt, the Unfinished Obelisk is a massive monolith that would have been the largest ever built. Commissioned by Queen Hatshepsut around 1500 BCE, it remains half-carved and still attached to the bedrock today. Carved over 3,500 years ago during the reign of Queen Hatshepsut, this colossal monument was intended to stand 42 meters (137 feet) tall and weigh nearly 1,200 tons! 🤯

I don't know why this is such a tourist attraction. It's kinda waste of money, it's not much to see actually. It's a huge piece of stone with no hieroglyphics on it, so it is unfinished. Spend your time somewhere else

The recommendations - defacto rezensions were a little bit splitted: Some very good (history, interesting and amazing) Some less interesting. I can confirm you according to my oppinion it is very: Interesting - amazing - legendary - stunning & egyptian. So... go for it for me was worth it😊🤩✅️ - Shukram.

The Unfinished Obelisk of Aswan. The Unfinished Obelisk, located in the northern granite quarries of Aswan, is one of Egypt’s most fascinating archaeological sites. Believed to have been commissioned during the reign of Queen Hatshepsut in the 18th Dynasty, this massive monument would have been the largest obelisk ever erected in ancient Egypt. If completed, it would have measured around 42 meters in height and weighed an estimated 1,200 tons. The obelisk was intended to be carved directly from the bedrock, using simple tools made of dolerite. However, during the process, large cracks appeared in the granite, leading the ancient builders to abandon the project entirely. Today, the obelisk remains in situ, lying partially separated from the quarry floor, offering a unique glimpse into the techniques of ancient stone carving. This site is significant because it reveals the scale and ambition of Egyptian engineering. Visitors can see the marks left by the workers’ tools and imagine the tremendous effort required to transport and erect such a colossal monument. It also provides valuable insight into why certain projects were never completed in antiquity. A visit to the Unfinished Obelisk is like stepping back in time, uncovering the challenges and skills of a civilization that mastered monumental construction thousands of years ago.

The Unfinished Obelisk is definitely worth a short visit if you’re in Aswan. It was part of our Aswan tour, and we had a guide, which made the experience nicer as we had explanations for everything. It’s amazing to see this massive monument still lying in the granite quarry where it was carved thousands of years ago; it really helps you imagine the incredible skill and effort of ancient Egyptian craftsmen. The site is well laid out with clear signs and gives a great insight into how obelisks were made. However once you leave the site, be prepared for quite a bit of hustling from local vendors selling spices, papyrus, and various souvenirs. While some are friendly, the persistence can get a bit overwhelming and takes away from the peaceful experience of the visit.

This giant 40 m obelisk didn't make it as a crack was discovered late during stonework and hence was left unfinished on situ. Otherwise it would have been the world's largest obelisk. Many tourists to Aswan area visit the site to see it. It's located about 50m above ground level and needs walking up stairs and uneven terrain to get there. So be aware of this problem if you are planning to visit. You have to purchase tickets. It's amazing sight to see. Getting a good guide to explain it is useful. Toilets on-site.

There is nothing around really, just literally unfinished obelisk. If you are Egypt history and all this kind of stuff freak you gonna love it, otherwise not much to do there 😆 it was completely empty as we went around 3pm but extremely hot. (Visited on November) also, you can’t touch it or go too close as it’s separated for public.