Colossi of Memnon: A Must-See Landmark in Luxor
The Colossi of Memnon are two massive statues at Luxor in Egypt that have stood against the test of time of more than 3,400 years. Ancient Egyptian statues formerly stood guard at the mortuary temple of Pharaoh Amenhotep III prior to when they served as a testament to Egyptian architectural grandeur. All tourists ranging from history lovers and photographers and Luxor site-visit lovers should see this monument. This guide will give you the history as well as interesting facts along with travel tips required to help you make the most of your journey to these attractions.
These Memnon statues are not just yet another monument, but they form an integral part of the foray of tourist destinations in Luxor, especially, and in Egypt, in general, owing to the splendid history that it portrays.
If you have a One Day tour in Luxor and Egypt, don’t forget this UNESCO World Heritage SiteLocation of Colossi of Memnon.
Location of Colossi of Memnon
The Colossi of Memnon are Located on the west bank of the Nile River in Luxor, Egypt. These towering statues once stood at the entrance of the grand mortuary temple of pharaoh Amenhotep, one of the largest temples of ancient Egypt. While much of the temple has been lost to time due to earthquakes and erosion, the statues remain as enduring symbols of Egypt’s glorious past.
How to get there:
-From Luxor city center, it’s a 20-minute drive by.
-Several tours of Luxor and the Valley of the Kings regularly feature the Colossi as part of the itinerary. Those wishing to explore on their own can or rent a bicycle and ride to the location.
The colossi’s location makes it much more convenient for tourists who want to visit historical sites in Luxor and makes it very easy to reach.
Who Built the Colossi of Memnon?
The Colossi of Memnon were constructed by Pharaoh Amenhotep III during the 18th Dynasty (1391–1353 BC). The statues were part of his grand mortuary temple, one of the largest and most impressive structures in ancient Egypt. Amenhotep III was renowned for his large-scale construction projects to prove his divine nature and authority. Of course, natural disasters such as earthquakes and Nile floods caused the destruction of the temple, leaving these giant statues to recall its former glory.
Facts About the Colossi of Memnon
Here are some interesting facts regarding these attractions in Luxor that you may enjoy learning about:
1. Enormous Size and Engineering Marvel
-At 18 meters (59 feet) each statue reaches the same height and consists of 720 tons of material weight. Artisans used explosively heavy quartzite sandstone which originated from Gebel el-Silsila which was located approximately 675 km toward the south of Luxor.
2. The "Singing" Statue Mystery
-The northern statue gained a reputation for its eerie melodic noises that occurred during sunrise hours. History shows the ancient Greeks mistook this phenomena as supernatural but modern science proves that temperature variations in the stone cause these vibrations.
The Roman Emperor Septimius Severus ordered restorations on the statues but the mystical sounds from the north statue ended with his commands in 200 AD.
3. Greek and Roman Inscriptions
During the centuries many guests from Greece and Rome chiseled their names into the statues. Snippets of graffiti near the statues maintain their historical value for approximately 2000 years which display original attitudes towards tourism in Luxor during antiquity.
4. Symbol of Divine Power
Amenhotep III sits on his throne among carvings of Hapi and his wife and his mother as the sculptures show a depiction of divinity. His divine authority together with his relationship to the gods became reaffirmed through these details.
How to Visit the Colossi of Memnon on Your Egypt Tour
The Colossi of Memnon is one of the most popular attractions in Luxor, so ensure you add it to your itinerary. Here is what to bear in mind before heading there. Best Ways to Get There:
- Private Tours: Most tours in Luxor come with a personal guide that can give you great insight into the statues.
- Group Tours: This landmark is a must-see and is typically featured if your tour includes the Valley of the Kings.
- Self-Guided Tour: For those who want more freedom, you can take a taxi or rent a bike in Luxor.
Best Time to Get There:
-In the early morning (before 10 AM), if you do not wish to be crowded by many tourists and want to see the statues illuminated by soft sun rays.
-During late afternoon when there are not many tourists around and for stunning sunset photography.
Entry Fee:
-The East Colossal Statue of Memnon and all the attractions around it do not have an entrance fee. Unlike most of the places in Luxor, these structures are accessible at no additional cost.
The Colossi of Memnon exceed their height; instead they permanently display Egypt's noble history together with its impressive architectural achievements. The experience of witnessing the Colossi of Memnon will always remain etched in your memory whether you are interested in their past history or the connection with ancient mythology or the sheer size of the statues. Your time in Luxor should include stopping by these monumental sculptures of history to experience firsthand the pharaonic wonders of Egypt. Your Egypt tour awaits you right now to catch a priceless sight of the incredible Memnon Colossi so plan today.
