The Naxian Sphinx is one of the most impressive votives in the Museum of Delphi. It dates back to 560 BC and it was created as an offering to God Apollo by the city-state of Naxos. The statue is known for its size. It was located on top of an Ionic column and its total height was 12.5 meters. The offering had one of the best spots in the main site as it was in front of the Temple of Apollo. This shows the importance of the Naxian city-state. The Naxian offering is unique for its theme and its form. In order to receive a prophecy from the Oracle of Delphi, people had to provide an offering to God Apollo first. That's exactly why there are so many votives in Delphi. The Naxian Sphinx, though, is very different. It's made of Naxian marble, one of the best sources of marble in ancient times, and the choice of the mythical creature is very daring. The Sphinx is a creature that has the body of a lion, the wings of a bird, and the face of a woman. Its origin can be traced back to Eastern civilizations, and it became very popular in Greek art during the Archaic period, which was influenced by the Eastern world.