Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan: what it is, ticket and visit in 2026
The Unfinished Obelisk is a giant obelisk left in the Aswan granite quarry: a crack appeared during carving and it was abandoned, which lets you see how the Egyptians quarried stone. It is said to measure about 42 m and weigh more than a thousand tonnes (common figures, not re-checked here); it is generally attributed to Hatshepsut. A visit takes 30 to 45 minutes, with no shade. Ticket: 30 to 60 EGP according to guides, no official source; hours: about 8:00 or 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Almost everyone sees it in the half-day "High Dam, Obelisk and Philae" trip.
Highlights
The obelisk lying in the quarry
The crack is visible; you can also see tool marks in the granite.
Practical info
Tips
- The most practical is the private half-day "High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk and Philae" (70 to 98 US dollars depending on the offer, seen October 2026; check what is included): the obelisk is on the way between the High Dam and Philae. Without a guide the site feels empty quickly: read a sign or ask the guard. Bring water and a hat.
How to get there
In the granite quarries north of Aswan, a few kilometres from the centre: taxi or tour. From Hurghada, see Hurghada to Aswan.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
Nearby
See on the map →
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