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The Sphinx and Babele from Bucegi: Mysteries carved in stone
In the heart of the Bucegi Mountains, more precisely in the Southern Carpathian Mountains of Romania, two of the most fascinating and enigmatic rock formations are hidden: The Sphinx and Babele. These natural monuments, sculpted over centuries by the forces of nature, attract both local tourists and visitors from around the world.
The Sphinx, standing at an imposing height of 8 meters and strikingly resembling a human face, dominates the Bucegi Plateau at an altitude of 2,216 meters. Just a stone’s throw away are Babele, mushroom-like rock formations that stir curiosity and imagination due to the lack of a clear scientific explanation for their formation. Accessible either by a five-hour walk or a 15-minute cable car ride from Bușteni, these natural wonders offer an unforgettable experience for all who dare to explore them.
Continue reading to discover more about the fascinating history and legends surrounding the Sphinx and Babele in the Bucegi Mountains!
The Legend of the Sphinx and the Babele
In the heart of the Bucegi Mountains lie ancient legends shrouding the Sphinx and Babele in a fascinating mystery.
The legend of the Sphinx suggests that it served as the model for the famous Egyptian Sphinx, and that there is a mystical connection between the two, a kind of time tunnel or energy portal. Every year, on November 28, at sunset, it is said that the rays form an energy pyramid around the face of the Sphinx, possessing healing properties. Other stories say that the Sphinx is the oldest of the sacred symbols of the place, venerated even during the Dacian kingdoms, where it was associated with the cult of Zalmoxis.
The legend of Babele adds its own touch of mystery. These rock formations, also known as the ‘Stone Giants’, refer to a human presence by their appearance. Legend links them to the magical days of early March and the representation of spring. Interestingly, despite the similarity with other rock formations in other Balkan countries, only in Romania are these stones accompanied by such legends and myths, which amplifies their aura of mystery and fascination for curious visitors.
The origin of the name Sphinx and Babele

The origin of the names ”Sphinx” and ”Babele” in the Bucegi Mountains has its roots in the early history of Romanian tourism. Initially known only to locals and a few brave explorers, but these rock formations began to gain popularity starting in the early 20th century. Professor Alexandru Bădăuță, the founder of the National Tourism Office, played a crucial role in the process of naming and popularizing these places.
In 1935, in the magazine “Buletin Alpin”, the human-looking rock was named the Sphinx because of its resemblance to the famous Egyptian monument. The name was officially adopted in the interwar period and became widely known through the magazine “România”, where it was also called “Romanian Sphinx”.
At the same time, other nearby rock formations, originally known as “Babele from Caraiman”, were also popularized. They were named like this because of their resemblance to a group of elderly women, suggesting an anthropomorphic appearance. The increasing popularity of these formations turned them into main tourist attractions in the Bucegi area and gave them the status of protected monuments of nature, recognized and appreciated worldwide.
How to you reach Babele and the Sphinx
To reach Babele and the Sphinx rock formations in the Bucegi Mountains, there are three main routes:
Bușteni cable car
One of the most convenient and accessible ways is to use the cable car from Bușteni. This cable car is one of the busiest in the Prahova Valley, especially in the summer season. The Bușteni – Babele cable car route offers an unforgettable experience, with a length of 4,350 meters and a difference in level of 1,235 meters, which takes about 13 minutes. When you get to Babele you can admire the rock formations and the magnificent landscape offered by the Bucegi plateau.
Mountain trails
For mountain hiking enthusiasts, there is also the option to follow trails, such as the one starting from Bușteni to the Jepilor Valley, Caraiman Chalet, Babele Chalet and Hotel Peștera. This route offers a longer experience, about 5-6 hours, but full of beauty and adventure.
By car
For those who prefer to arrive by car, there is the option to go in small groups or drive personally to Piatra Arsă hut on the TransBucegi, from where you can continue on foot for about 30-40 minutes to Babele and Sphinx.
The most important tourist attraction in the surroundings
Surrounding Bușteni, numerous tourist attractions draw visitors from around the world, offering a memorable experience amid the spectacular nature of the Bucegi Mountains. From impressive waterfalls to historical monuments and fascinating caves, these destinations promise to satisfy curiosity and offer moments of adventure and contemplation in the heart of natural beauty.
Urlătoarea Waterfall
Urlătoarea Waterfall, located near Bușteni, is an exceptionally impressive natural attraction. With a main waterfall of 15 meters and situated at an altitude of 1,100 meters, the waterfall offers a wonderful spectacle of nature amidst the mountainous landscape. In addition to the main waterfall, there are other smaller waterfalls on the two streams, the Urlătoarea Mare and Urlătoarea Mică, which complete the beauty of the landscape. Access to the Urlătoarea Waterfall is easy from both Bușteni and Poiana Țapului, making it a popular option for tourists keen to explore the natural beauty of the Bucegi Mountains.
Caraiman Cross
The Caraiman Cross also known as the Monument of Heroes is one of the most remarkable constructions in the Bucegi Mountains. Located at an altitude of 2,291 meters, the cross is a symbol of the courage and sacrifice of Romanian heroes. Built between 1926 and 1928 by the Romanian Railways, the cross impresses not only by its impressive size – with a height of 48 meters and a width of the arm of 14 meters – but also by the fact that it is illuminated and can be admired both day and night. This emblem of the Romanian spirit is visible from a distance and is an important landmark for tourists visiting the area.
Ialomița Cave
Ialomița Cave is one of the most fascinating attractions in the Bucegi Mountains and in Romania as a whole. Located on Mount Bătrâna, at an altitude of over 1600 meters, the cave offers a captivating underground experience. Access to the cave is via the Bușteni cable car up to Babele, and from there the journey continues to the cave entrance. With a length of approximately 480 meters, of which 400 meters are accessible to tourists, the cave reveals a spectacular world of galleries and halls, crossed by a stream that adds a picturesque touch to the whole experience. The difference in level of 60 meters allows a significant part of the cave to be explored, and the spectacular karst formations encountered along the way make this an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Omu Peak
Omu Peak, ranked the sixth highest mountain peak in Romania, is the highest point of the Bucegi Massif and is visible from all over the area, including the Prahova Valley and from the ridge of Pietrei Craiului. This peak is home to the Omu Hut and the Omu Peak Meteorological Station, an attraction for tourists eager to explore the beauty of the mountains.
5 curiosities about Babele and Sphinx
The Romanian tourist attractions, Babele and the Sphinx are surrounded by numerous fascinating legends and curiosities. Here are five of them:
- Some sources suggest that the Sphinx in the Bucegi Mountains may be a representation of a supreme deity originating from the Aegean Sea area, bringing a touch of mystery and distant historical connections.
- Few people know that the Bucegi Sphinx is not only the same height as the famous Egyptian Sphinx, but is also considered the oldest sacred symbol of Romania. There are theories suggesting that this tourist attraction existed even in the time of the Dacian kingdoms, being worshiped as part of the cult of Zalmoxis.
- The Bucegi Sphinx has been recognized as a natural monument and included in the Bucegi National Park, giving it a special status and protection from human interference.
- Several speculations and theories have been elaborated about the significance and origin of the Sphinx and the Bab. Some speculations link the Sphinx to Greek mythology, suggesting that it could represent the figure of Atlas or even Prometheus in chains.
- A fascinating curiosity is related to the orientation and similarities of the Bucegi Sphinx to other ancient artifacts or representations. It has been observed that both the Bucegi and Egyptian Sphinxes have the same orientation to the sun, bringing to the surface possible cultural connections or influences. Some similarities have also been found between the Bucegi Sphinx and a statue of Zeus found in Italy, adding another element of mystery and speculation surrounding this amazing object.
Where are you staying? Choose Transylvanian Inn for an authentic spiritual experience!
If you’re looking for an authentic and memorable experience in the heart of the Bucegi Mountains, and visiting the Babelor and the Sphinx is on your bucket list, we invite you to stay at the Villa Transylvanian Inn.
Here you will find not just a place to stay, but a sanctuary for your soul, where you can reconnect with the energy and mystery of these rock formations. With comfortable rooms and carefully designed furnishings, the villa offers you an oasis of tranquility and relaxation after a full day of exploring these magical places. Every detail of the villa reflects our passion for authenticity and comfort, so you can feel at home as you discover the mysteries and beauty of these legendary places.