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Tourists at Egypt’s iconic Giza Pyramids now have an unexpected new attraction to marvel at—a stray dog named Apollo, who has recently become an internet sensation. Visitors are no longer only gazing at the ancient monuments but are also hoping to catch a glimpse of Apollo, the fearless dog who has captured the hearts of people worldwide.
As per a report in the Times of India, Apollo shot to fame after a viral video showed him scaling the Great Pyramid of Khafre. Filmed by American paragliding enthusiast Alex Lang and shared by his friend Marshall Mosher, the footage shows the brave dog climbing the 136-meter-high pyramid with ease and barking at birds from the top. Lang, who witnessed the scene, remarked, “He was acting like a king,” as Apollo perched proudly on the pyramid’s summit.
The video quickly went viral, turning Apollo into an unlikely tourist attraction. Visitors from around the globe have gathered at the Giza site in hopes of spotting the “pyramid puppy.” Some even claim to feel a spiritual connection with the dog, drawing comparisons to the ancient Egyptian pharaohs. One tourist from Argentina, Diego Vega, said that meeting Apollo was like connecting with the powerful spirits of Egypt’s past.
Local tour guides have embraced Apollo’s fame, incorporating him into their tours and introducing him as a legendary figure akin to Anubis, the ancient Egyptian god. Sobhi Fakhry, a local guide, shared that Apollo has become a key part of the stories told to tourists, blending the modern-day canine with Egypt’s rich history.
The viral attention surrounding Apollo has also benefited local businesses. Umm Basma, a souvenir vendor near the pyramids, reported a surge in sales, as tourists flock to the area to meet the now-famous dog. Apollo’s rising popularity has even attracted celebrities, with some reportedly paying for permits to take photos of their pets alongside him, according to a pyramid guard.
Apollo, a three-year-old Baladi dog, leads a pack of around eight dogs that roam the pyramids. These resilient and intelligent stray dogs have adapted to Egypt’s harsh climate. Ibrahim el-Bendary, co-founder of the American Cairo Animal Rescue Foundation, describes Apollo as the alpha male of the pack, a symbol of strength and leadership. Born in a rocky crevice within the Khafre Pyramid, Apollo’s mother, Laika, sought shelter there, and the young dog grew up amidst the ancient ruins, gaining fame for his distinctive curled tail and confident demeanor.
