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Romania’s Sphinx: Natural Wonder or  Extraterrestrial Marvel

Bucegi Mountains may not be Romania's tallest mountains, but they sure are the most mysterious ones. Discover the Romanian Sphinx, a natural wonder of the country that, unlike the Sphinx of Giza, was not crafted by hands. At least not those of a human.

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sphinx in romania
The Sphinx natural rock formation in Bucegi Mountains, Romania. Photo: iStock.com / porojnicu

If the Sphinx of Giza is on your must-see list, you should definitely consider the Romanian Sphinx. Located in Bucegi Natural Park at an altitude of 2,216 meters, the site measures 8 meters high and 12 meters long and is one of Romania’s seven natural wonders. Each year, the Bucegi Plateau gathers hundreds of visitors, legend enthusiasts, and curious individuals to discover not only the beauty but also the stories and secrets hidden in the face of the rock.

 

It may not look like much from the front other than a mildly interesting gathering of rocks. But take a step back and to the right and tilt your head just a little bit. Suddenly, the sight in front of you changes. The stiff rocks take the form of a face, gazing over the highs and lows of the mountains.

Comparisons to the celebrated Sphinx of Giza granted it the name of the Sphinx in 1936. And one must admit, the resemblance is quite uncanny. However, one very important difference between the two is that, unlike the Giza Sphinx, which was human-made by the Ancient Egyptians, the Romanian Sphinx was never touched by the hands of any civilization – not human, at least.

Romanian Sphinx and its conspiracy theories

Many theories, conspiracies, and beliefs float around about the creation of the Sphinx. Some believe it was sculpted by the Dacians, while some others believe in an extra-terrestrial involvement that led to the creation of the rock head. Some go as far as believing that the two sculptures – the Romanian and the Egyptian one – share the same origin. While trying to figure out the genesis of this intriguing site might be an entertaining hobby, scientists have managed to bring us back down to earth by attributing its creation to wind erosion, which throughout time has carefully crafted the megalith.

 

 

But it is not just the origins of the site that spark great interest for visitors. The entire plateau is believed to be a “Bermuda triangle” where supernatural activities and energies collide. Moreover, the date of 28 November is believed to be of great significance. On this date, each year, hundreds of people climb the rocky mountain in snow and frost just to experience what is called “Rapa Pyramid.” It’s a phenomenon generated by the sun’s position that gives the impression of sunrays covering the site in a pyramid of lights that superstition-enthusiasts believe have mysterious properties.

A wonder you have to see to believe

Leaving aside the site’s mysterious origins, scientists, clandestine visitors, and die-hard enthusiasts can all agree on the beauty of Sphinx of the Bucegi Mountains. One must see it to fully comprehend the grandiosity and magnificence of the sight. And whether you choose to climb up the mountain yourself or make good use of the cabin installed, you will surely not regret it.

If you’re feeling adventurous, the Bucegi Plateau has more up its sleeve. Take a short walk and see The Heroes’ Cross, the world’s tallest summit cross, the Ialomița waterfall, Romania’s 6th tallest peak, the Vârful Omu crest, the Babele rock formations, and much more.

What else is worth seeing in the world? Read the post about: Romania, the Land of Artistic Inspiration

Naomi Gherman

Master student in Cultural Diplomacy and International Relations at Babeș-Bolyai University, eager to share more about our world's most fascinating stories and people. Romania-based reader, writer and content creator with a strong interest in journalism, foreign languages and politics.

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