The Real Age of the Sphinx

The Great Sphinx of Giza is traditionally believed to have been built during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre, around 4,500 years ago. However, its real age remains a subject of debate. (0) …...… is a question that continues to interest archaeologists and historians.

In the early 1990s, a geologist named Robert Schoch argued that the Sphinx’s enclosure showed signs of water erosion.  (1) ……… a PhD in geology and geophysics from Yale University, Schoch pointed out that it hadn’t rained in the Giza plateau for many millennia.  This theory meant that the true date for the building of the Sphinx was wrong by as (2) ………… as 6000 years.  He also examined the results of seismic tests around the monument, (3) ……… he believed supported the idea of deeper weathering. Such evidence could undoubtedly (4) ……… enlightening for researchers whether they change the currently accepted age or not.

Other scientists have suggested different explanations for the erosion, (5) ……… as natural weaknesses in the limestone or changes caused by groundwater.  These alternative theories are good (6) ……… archaeologists because they encourage them to consider several other possible explanations for the excessive weathering around the Sphinx that may not challenge the currently accepted age.

The debate has continued for (7) ……… while, and further tests have produced different interpretations. Some researchers accept parts of Schoch’s argument, while others remain unconvinced. The evidence not (8) ……… raises questions about the Sphinx, it also forces us to reexamine how ancient monuments should be studied.