Known as the Unfinished Obelisk, this colossal structure holds the title of being the largest known ancient obelisk. Its sheer size and the mysteries it unveils about the stoneworking techniques of the time capture the imagination of historians and archaeologists alike.
The Unfinished Obelisk first garnered significant attention in 1922 when it was meticulously examined by Reginald Engelbach. This massive monument, along with the broader quarry, was recognized for its cultural significance and inscribed on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979. The site was included as part of the “Nubian Monuments from Abu Simbel to Philae,” despite not being situated between Abu Simbel and Philae, nor being directly associated with the Nubian civilization.
Commissioned by the renowned Pharaoh Hatshepsut, who ruled from 1508 to 1458 BC, the Unfinished Obelisk was intended to complement the Lateran Obelisk. The Lateran Obelisk, originally located at Karnak, was later moved to the Lateran Palace in Rome. Impressively, the Unfinished Obelisk was poised to surpass all previously erected ancient Egyptian obelisks, standing at nearly one-third taller than its counterparts. Estimates suggest that if completed, it would have reached a towering height of approximately 41.75 meters (137.0 feet) and weighed a staggering 1,090 tonnes (1,200 short tons).
The grand vision, however, was not fully realized. The ambitious project encountered an unforeseen setback. As craftsmen tirelessly chiseled away at the bedrock, cracks began to appear in the granite, forcing the project to come to a premature halt. To this day, the bottom side of the obelisk remains firmly attached to its natural stone bedrock.
What makes the Unfinished Obelisk truly captivating is the rare glimpses it provides into the ancient Egyptian stone-working techniques. Even in its incomplete state, the obelisk offers invaluable insights. Traces of workers’ tools are still visible etched onto its surface, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship and precision of these skilled artisans. Weathered-colored lines serve as vivid reminders of the meticulous planning and coordination that went into this monumental endeavor.
In 2005, another remarkable discovery was made at the Aswan Quarries – an unfinished, partially worked obelisk base. This find, along with rock carvings and remnants, potentially corresponds to the site where many of the famous obelisks were crafted. Together, these quarries and their unfinished treasures now serve as an open-air museum, carefully protected by the Egyptian government as a revered archaeological site.
As the Unfinished Obelisk continues to stand tall, it serves as a lasting testament to the remarkable ambition and craftsmanship of the ancient Egyptians. It beckons us to reflect on the achievements of a civilization that left an indelible mark on history and challenges us to unravel the secrets hidden within the stones they left behind.
