Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Luxor with Friends

Echoes of Eternity

Today was all about diving deeper into the heart of ancient Egypt, and Luxor provided the perfect setting. Lena and I are constantly amazed by how much history is packed into this region. It's like every stone has a story to tell, and today, we were all ears.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Iberotel Luxor Hotel Restaurant. Fuelled up, we set out to explore the treasures of Luxor, starting with the renowned Luxor Museum.


Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Luxor at Iberotel Luxor Hotel, where comfort meets convenience just minutes from the city center.

I was especially excited, having read so much about its carefully curated collection. Lena, with her artistic eye, was eager to see the craftsmanship of the ancient artisans. The museum is conveniently located on the corniche, offering a beautiful view of the Nile – a constant reminder of the lifeblood of this ancient civilization.

The Luxor Museum isn’t just a collection of artifacts; it's a journey through time. From the moment we stepped inside, we were greeted by masterpieces from the end of the Old Kingdom to the Mamluk era. The museum's design is brilliant, allowing you to get up close and personal with history. One of the first things that caught my eye was the majestic head of a cow goddess made of resin and gilded wood. The intricate details were stunning, a testament to the incredible skill of the ancient Egyptians. Lena was captivated by the Wall of Akhenaten, a series of small sandstone blocks from Amenhotep IV's temple at Karnak. The images depicting Akhenaten, his wife Nefertiti, and their temple life are a unique glimpse into that period.


Discover the treasures of ancient Egypt at the Luxor Museum, a premier destination for history lovers in Luxor.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

We also spent a considerable amount of time admiring the royal mummies of Ahmose I and Ramesses I. Seeing these pharaohs, the founders of dynasties, laid bare in such a respectful manner, was a humbling experience. The new wing dedicated to the military might of Thebes during the New Kingdom was fascinating, showcasing weaponry and a hunting chariot of Tutankhamun. It was incredible to see the tools and technology they used, offering a glimpse into their daily lives. I was particularly impressed by the statue of Tuthmosis III in greywacke from the Temple of Karnak. Lena was drawn to the alabaster figure of Amenhotep III protected by the crocodile god Sobek. We spent hours wandering through the exhibits, each more captivating than the last.

After immersing ourselves in the wonders of the Luxor Museum, we decided to grab lunch at Gerda's Garden. This charming restaurant, owned by a German-Egyptian couple, offered a delightful mix of Egyptian and European cuisine. Lena opted for a classic Egyptian kebab, while I went for the goulash, a nod to my adopted home in Berlin. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, a perfect spot to recharge before our next adventure.


Discover Gerda's Garden in Luxor – where fast food meets local charm and flavor in a vibrant dining experience.

Next on our list was the Mummification Museum, a place I had been eagerly anticipating. As someone fascinated by ancient Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife, I was keen to learn more about the intricate process of preserving bodies for eternity. Lena, ever the curious one, was equally intrigued. The museum, located on the Nile Corniche, is dedicated to the art of ancient Egyptian mummification. It provides a comprehensive view of the entire process, displaying tools, objects, and equipment used, along with explanations of the ritual and religious significance.


Explore the Mummification Museum in Luxor, where ancient Egyptian burial practices come to life through captivating exhibits and rich artifacts.

The Mummification Museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Egyptian art of preservation. The displays included mummified remains, decorated coffins, canopic jars, and statues of deities like Osiris and Anubis. The museum is filled with a number of incredible halls and displays that aim to offer a full understanding of the ancient art form of mummification where some embalming techniques were performed on several mummies using many tools and rituals. Seeing the mummy of High Priest Masaharta was particularly striking, a testament to the skill and dedication of the embalmers. The displays of mummified animals – cats, dogs, crocodiles – were also quite remarkable, highlighting the Egyptians' belief in the importance of preserving all life.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the museum was learning about the tools and materials used in the mummification process. From the natron salt used to dry out the body to the various amulets placed within the wrappings, every detail had a specific purpose. The canopic jars, used to store the organs of the deceased, were particularly interesting, each adorned with the head of one of the four sons of Horus. Anubis, the jackal-headed god of embalming, was prominently featured throughout the museum, a reminder of his central role in the mummification process.

Following our exploration of the Mummification Museum, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at Khan El Khalili. While technically located in Cairo, we found a shop in Luxor that brought the spirit of this famous market to us. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with the sights and sounds of vendors selling everything from spices to jewelry, was intoxicating. Lena, with her keen eye for detail, found a beautiful hand-painted papyrus scroll depicting scenes from the Book of the Dead. I haggled for a while and managed to get a decent price. I picked up a few spices to try my hand at some traditional Cypriot dishes back in Berlin, a little taste of Egypt to bring home with me.


Explore the vibrant Khan El Khalili bazaar in Luxor, where authentic Egyptian culture meets a treasure trove of handcrafted souvenirs.

For dinner, we decided to try Aladdin's Kingdom Restaurant, drawn in by its promising reviews and the allure of Egyptian cuisine. Located near Banana Island, the restaurant offered a variety of dishes, including fried fish and mixed grill. I opted for the mixed grill, while Lena tried the fried fish. The food was delicious, and the view was lovely, providing a perfect end to a day filled with exploration and discovery. Omar, who I believe was the owner, was exceptionally hospitable and even offered us some tea, which was a welcome treat.


Experience authentic Egyptian cuisine at Aladdin's Kingdom Restaurant in Luxor—where every dish tells a story.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the Nile, we returned to our hotel, our minds buzzing with the wonders we had seen. Luxor truly is a treasure trove of ancient history, and today, we had only scratched the surface. I am also beginning to truly appreciate the craftsmanship of the ancient Egyptians. Their skill and artistry are evident in every artifact, every statue, every mummy. It's a reminder of the incredible achievements of this ancient civilization and their enduring legacy.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to visit the Temple of Khnum and experience the Sound & Light show. I’m also hoping to check out the VIP CLUB LUXOR for a bit of nightlife, maybe try some of the local drinks. But for now, it’s time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of adventure in this incredible land. I am also looking forward to trying out the Nubian House for lunch and PIZZA ROMA. IT for dinner. It’s going to be another exciting day!

The experiences today have only deepened my appreciation for the rich history and culture of Egypt. It's amazing to think that these artifacts and monuments have survived for thousands of years, offering us a glimpse into the lives of those who came before us. It's a humbling and awe-inspiring experience, one that I will never forget.