The Unfinished Obelisk

The Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan's granite quarry is the largest known ancient obelisk, measuring approximately 42 metres (137 ft) and weighing an estimated 1,200 tons. Commissioned by Queen Hatshepsut during her reign (1478-1458 BC), it was abandoned after significant cracks appeared in the granite during carving. The site preserves visible evidence of ancient quarrying techniques, including marks from dolerite pounding balls and wooden wedge insertion points. Now an open-air museum, it provides unique insight into the stone-working methods of ancient Egypt.