Gordian Knot Puzzle

A testing one-player puzzle inspired by the Ancient Greek legend of the Gordian Knot. It is said that Alexander the Great, when visiting Gordium in Phrygia in 333 BC, was challenged to untangle a series of intricate knots, which fastened an oxcart; an oracle had declared that whomsoever could untie the knot would rule all of Asia. Alexander, according to legend, cut the knot with his sword and went on to fulfil the prophecy by conquering Asia to the Indus and Oxus rivers. This legendary lateral solution - or just plain cheating - has been argued about ever since. Recalling the challenge, your version of the task is to untangle the knots and release Alexander’s sword; once released, you must work out how then to reattach it. Unlike Alexander, no cutting is allowed! Created in tactile stained pine and plywood, with metal cogs and rings attached to the knotted cord, puzzlers of all ages will enjoy this legendary challenge. The box includes a booklet which explores Alexander’s legendary conquests and includes the solution.

Pine, plywood, metal, and cord
27 x 7.5 x 3cm
20 x 13.5 x 4cm box
Box printed with brief instructions
Includes solution and booklet exploring the legend
1 player, age 12+
Paper and card can be recycled