Seeking to rediscover the "avenue of sphinxes", an Egyptian mission found the first Luxor "sphinx". Secretary-General of the Higher Council of Antiquities Dr. Zahi Hawas said that the "sphinx" carries several carvings together with a royal "Kartouch".

On his part, Samir Farag, Head of the City of Luxor, described the discovery as a turning point for Luxor.