What's the largest magic square that has been created?

Question

I have seen an eight by eight magic square created by Benjamin Franklin. Has anyone seen or know of a larger one.

His was worked out in his head - I guess computers can create them now - but is there a limit to the size that a magic square can go up to?

Answer 1

There is no limit for computer generated magic squares but there are rules for doing it yourself.

The world record is 3001 x 3001 by Louis Caya (Canada) and I think this was printed.

The record for hand written magic square is 1111 x 1111 by Norberk Behnke (Germany) in 1990.

Answer 2

No, I can make a magic square pretty easily if it's an odd number of squares to a side. There's a pattern to it.

So, there's no upper limit on how big a magic square can be. :)

Answer 3

I don't think there is an upper limit.

Try a four x four square and you will struggle.