The Big Sphinx
Height
15 metres
Year Built
1998
Address
North Geelong, VIC 3215
The Lowdown
The Big Sphinx stands 15 metres tall in North Geelong, an unexpected piece of ancient Egypt transported to regional Victoria. Built in 1998, this impressive replica of the Great Sphinx of Giza was constructed as an eye-catching landmark for a local business in Geelong's industrial area. While it may seem an unusual choice for an Australian Big Thing, the Sphinx represents the Australian love of the eccentric and unexpected. Visible from the Princes Freeway, the Big Sphinx has become a quirky landmark for travellers heading along the coast between Melbourne and the Great Ocean Road.
Did you know?
"Geelong is Victoria's second-largest city"
History
The Big Sphinx was built in 1998 as an attention-grabbing landmark for a local automotive business in North Geelong's industrial precinct. At 15 metres tall, it's an impressive replica of the Great Sphinx of Giza, which was carved around 2500 BCE and remains one of the world's most recognizable monuments. The Australian version trades the Libyan Desert for the Geelong Ring Road, but retains the mystery and majesty of its ancient inspiration. It represents the Australian tradition of creating bold, unexpected landmarks to attract passing trade.
More Fun Facts
- •The Big Sphinx stands 15 metres tall
- •It was built in 1998 for an automotive business
- •The original Great Sphinx of Giza is over 4,500 years old
- •Geelong is Victoria's second-largest city
- •The Sphinx is visible from the Princes Freeway
Visiting Tips
- 💡Stop on your way to or from the Great Ocean Road
- 💡Geelong's waterfront is worth exploring
- 💡The Bellarine Peninsula has excellent wineries
- 💡Eastern Beach has an iconic ocean pool
Opening Hours
Visible from the roadside at all times.
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