Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Luxor with Family

Echoes of the Craftsmen & Pharaohs

Today, I ventured into the heart of ancient Thebes, exploring the West Bank of Luxor. It was a day of contrasts, from the intimate village of the artisans who built the royal tombs to the colossal statues that once guarded a pharaoh's grand temple. The sun beat down, but the heat couldn't diminish the awe I felt as I walked in the footsteps of those who shaped this incredible landscape.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Tutti Frutti Restaurant. Astrid and Lasse were particularly enthusiastic about the fresh fruit and pastries, while I enjoyed a strong Egyptian coffee to prepare for the day ahead. Fully energized, we set off to explore Deir el-Medina, the ancient village of the artisans who dedicated their lives to constructing the tombs in the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens. I find myself continually drawn to the stories of those who lived and worked in these ancient places; their lives are so different and yet so similar to our own.


Discover the ancient artisan village of Deir el-Medina, a historic gem near Luxor that reveals the secrets of Egypt's skilled craftsmen.
Deir el-Medina, also known as The Place of Truth, offered a glimpse into the daily lives of these skilled workers. As a restorer of antique furniture, I was particularly fascinated by the craftsmanship and attention to detail evident in the remnants of their homes and the small, personal tombs they created for themselves. The village itself is nestled in a small, natural amphitheater, surrounded by barren hillsides that reflect the desert sun. It’s easy to imagine the artisans seeking shelter from the heat in the narrow, covered main road that once ran through the village. The houses, though modest in size, were built with the same meticulous care they applied to the royal tombs.

Wandering through the ruins, I felt a profound connection to these ancient craftsmen. I could almost hear the echoes of their tools, the murmur of their conversations, and the laughter of their children. Their dedication to their work was evident in every stone, every painted wall, every carefully crafted detail. It was a humbling experience to stand in the place where they lived, worked, and dreamed. I couldn't help but reflect on my own work back in Silkeborg, restoring antique furniture. Though separated by millennia, we share a common thread: a passion for craftsmanship and a desire to preserve the past for future generations.

The past is never dead. It's not even past. - William Faulkner

After immersing ourselves in the world of the artisans, we made our way to the Colossi of Memnon. These two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III stand as silent sentinels, guarding the entrance to what was once his mortuary temple. Even in ruins, the temple complex was the largest and most opulent in Ancient Egypt. Covering a total of 35 hectares, its size dwarfs even the Temple of Karnak. The Colossi have stood since 1350 BC, their weathered faces gazing out over the Theban Necropolis.


Explore the Colossi of Memnon, two towering statues that symbolize the grandeur of ancient Egypt and its rich archaeological heritage.
Standing at the feet of these giants, I felt a sense of awe and wonder. Each statue, hewn from a single block of quartzite stone, rises 18 meters into the sky. They depict the pharaoh seated on his throne, his hands resting on his knees, his gaze fixed on the rising sun. Smaller figures of his wife and mother are carved at his feet. The scale of these statues is simply breathtaking, a testament to the power and ambition of the pharaoh who commissioned them. I tried to imagine what it must have been like to approach this temple in its full glory, the Colossi gleaming in the sunlight, the air filled with the sounds of priests and worshippers. It was a scene of unimaginable grandeur, a world of gods and pharaohs, of life and death, of eternity and impermanence.

The Colossi are named after Memnon, a hero of the Trojan War, due to a fascinating phenomenon. In 27 BCE, an earthquake shattered the northern colossus, causing it to emit a strange, singing sound at dawn. The Greeks believed this sound to be the voice of Memnon, greeting his mother Eos, the goddess of dawn. Though the singing ceased after the statue was restored by the Romans, the name Memnon stuck, forever linking these Egyptian giants to a Greek myth. It's interesting how cultures intertwine, how stories evolve, and how the past is constantly reinterpreted in the light of the present.

We paused for lunch at El Hussein Restaurant. I was keen to try some authentic Egyptian fare. Lasse, predictably, opted for chicken and rice, while Astrid and I shared a selection of mezze, including creamy hummus, flavorful falafel, and tangy baba ghanoush. The food was simple but delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. I enjoyed the chance to relax and soak in the local atmosphere, watching the world go by as we savored our meal. The reviews I read beforehand were spot on – El Hussein is a great place to experience local Luxor.


Discover authentic Egyptian flavors at El Hussein Restaurant in Karnak, Luxor – where every bite tells a story.
In the late afternoon, after a day filled with ancient wonders, we sought respite at the Nile Bar & Lounge. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the river, we sipped refreshing drinks and reflected on our experiences. The Nile Bar & Lounge truly lives up to its reputation as a luxurious escape. The combination of stylish decor, comfortable seating, and breathtaking views of the Nile created a perfect setting for relaxation and reflection. The kids enjoyed some refreshing non-alcoholic beverages, while Astrid and I savored some local wine. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration, a moment of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of Luxor.


Experience the serene beauty of the Nile at the Nile Bar & Lounge, where relaxation meets vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Luxor.
As I sat there, watching the feluccas glide across the water, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share this incredible journey with my family. Travel, for me, is not just about seeing new places; it's about connecting with different cultures, learning about the past, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And what better way to do that than with the people I love most?

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Temple of Khnum and the Mortuary Temple of Seti I, continuing our journey through the ancient wonders of Luxor. Lasse is particularly excited about visiting the SHOP SANDOUK. HandCrafts/FairTrade, hoping to find some unique souvenirs to take back home. I'm looking forward to discovering more about the history and culture of this fascinating region, and to sharing those experiences with you all. For dinner, we are planning to try Casa di Napoli, and I am looking forward to a little taste of Italy here in Luxor.

Before heading back to the Iberotel Luxor Hotel, we enjoyed one last stroll along the Nile. The air was cooler now, and the city was bathed in the soft glow of the streetlights. The sounds of music and laughter drifted from the cafes and restaurants, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. It was a reminder that Luxor is not just a city of ancient ruins; it's a living, breathing place, full of life and energy. And as I walked hand-in-hand with Astrid, with Lasse trailing behind us, I felt a deep sense of contentment. We were here, we were together, and we were experiencing something truly special.


Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Luxor at Iberotel Luxor Hotel, where comfort meets convenience just minutes from the city center.
Back at the hotel, as I write this, I’m already anticipating tomorrow’s adventures. I’m also making a mental note to buy a portable phone charger – it completely slipped my mind when packing, and it would have been useful today. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of exploring the ancient wonders of Luxor. Goodnight from Egypt!