Female Sphinx with Wings Statue

In Greek mythology, the sphinx is a legendary creature with the head of a woman, the body of a lion, and the wings of an eagle. Unlike the benevolent Egyptian sphinxes, which often depicted pharaohs and were symbols of protection, the Greek sphinx was malevolent and cunning. Most famously, the Greek sphinx resided outside Thebes, issuing a single mysterious riddle to passersby and devouring those who failed to solve it. This enigmatic figure's wings added a layer of supernatural prowess, emphasizing her role as a fearsome gatekeeper. The sphinx's myth epitomizes the ancient fascination with hybrid creatures, embodying both wisdom and terror.