In ancient Egyptian mythology, the creature typically depicted as having the head of a lion and the body of a human is the sphinx. The sphinx is a symbolic creature that embodies strength and protection, often associated with the guarding of sacred places, notably tombs. While the Great Sphinx of Giza is a prominent example, sphinxes appear in various myths and representations. They often serve as guardians, also known for posing riddles to travelers, further contributing to their mythical status in ancient cultures.