Solo Sojourn to the Timeless Wonders of Luxor

Giants and Gems of the West Bank

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey from the colossal to the intricate, from open sky monuments to carefully curated museum pieces. It's a reminder that history isn't just about grand gestures, but also the small, human moments preserved in art and artifact. These are the stories I find myself drawn to, the whispers of the past that resonate with my own work as an antique restorer.

My day began before the sun had fully stretched its fingers across the horizon. After a delightful breakfast at the Sonesta St George Hotel Luxor, I set out to the West Bank, eager to greet the Colossi of Memnon. I must admit, there's something profoundly moving about standing before these silent giants, remnants of a once-grandiose mortuary temple. I remember Marie once saying, while we were visiting some Roman ruins in Tongeren, that 'stones can speak if you know how to listen'. And these stones, these colossal figures of Amenhotep III, had quite a story to tell.


Experience luxury and comfort at the Sonesta St George Hotel in Luxor, with stunning Nile views, exquisite dining, and top-tier amenities for an unforgettable stay.

As I approached, the sheer scale of the Colossi became apparent. Standing at approximately 18 meters high, these statues, crafted from quartzite sandstone, have weathered the centuries, bearing witness to earthquakes, floods, and the relentless passage of time. The morning light cast long shadows, accentuating the weathered features of the pharaoh, his hands resting on his knees, gazing eternally towards the east. It was quite a sight! I spent some time simply absorbing the atmosphere, imagining the temple that once stood behind them, a vast complex of halls, courtyards, and sanctuaries.

The Colossi are more than just impressive statues; they're guardians of history, silent sentinels watching over the Theban Necropolis. I learned that they were intended to protect the Pharaoh's temple from evil. Despite the temple's destruction by an earthquake, the Colossi of Memnon remain standing strongly for thousands of years. Their modern Arabic name is Kom el-Hatan but the Colossi of Memnon is better known for its Roman name, the Temple of Memnon. There's a certain melancholy to their existence, a sense of loss and resilience intertwined. I made sure to take some pictures, trying to capture their imposing presence against the backdrop of the rising sun.


Explore the Colossi of Memnon, two towering statues that symbolize the grandeur of ancient Egypt and its rich archaeological heritage.

The past is never truly gone; it lingers in the stones, in the art, in the stories we tell.

From the colossal, I transitioned to the curated, making my way back to the East Bank to visit the Luxor Museum. After a morning in the open air, the cool, quiet interior of the museum was a welcome respite. Lunch at Jamboree Restaurant was a pleasant interlude, offering a taste of local flavors before diving back into history. The Luxor Museum, though smaller than the grand museum in Cairo, is a treasure trove of carefully selected artifacts. I found myself particularly drawn to the collection of New Kingdom statues discovered buried near the Luxor Temple in 1989. To think that these pieces lay hidden for centuries, only to be unearthed and displayed for the world to admire – it's the kind of discovery that fuels my passion for restoration.


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

The museum is thoughtfully laid out, with clear multilingual labeling that provides context and insight into each piece. I spent a considerable amount of time admiring the reconstructed wall from Akhenaten's temple at Karnak. The images depicting Akhenaten, his wife Nefertiti, and scenes of temple life offered a glimpse into a fascinating period of Egyptian history. I also was fascinated by a calcite double statue of the 18th Dynasty pharaoh Amenhotep III alongside the crocodile god Sobek.

One of the highlights was the collection of artifacts from Tutankhamun's tomb, including shabti figurines, model boats, and gilded bronze rosettes. These objects, though small in scale, speak volumes about the beliefs and rituals surrounding death and the afterlife. As an antique restorer, I appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into creating these pieces, each one a testament to the skill and artistry of ancient Egyptian artisans.

Before leaving the museum, I made sure to see the royal mummies of Ahmose I and Ramesses I, which were added to the display in 2004. Seeing these pharaohs, who lived millennia ago, was a sobering and awe-inspiring experience. It's a reminder of the vastness of history and the enduring legacy of ancient Egypt.

In the late afternoon, I ventured into the Nobles Art Gallery. Situated at the Old Winter Palace hotel, it specializes in statues and other objects from the first half of the 20th century. Although I didn’t find anything to purchase, it was a great experience nonetheless. It was fascinating to see the artistry and craftsmanship on display, a blend of ancient inspiration and modern interpretation. I enjoyed the visit to the shop; the staff was very friendly and knowledgeable.


Explore the exquisite collection of antiques and art at Nobles Art Gallery, a cultural gem in Luxor, Egypt, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of the region.

Dinner at LA CORNICHE RESTAURANT provided a relaxing end to a day filled with history and art. As I savored the flavors of Egyptian cuisine, I reflected on the experiences of the day. From the colossal statues guarding the entrance to a forgotten temple to the intricate artifacts preserved in the Luxor Museum, it was a journey through time, a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of those who came before us.


Savor exquisite Western cuisine with breathtaking Nile views at La Corniche Restaurant in Luxor.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Ramesseum and the Amenhotep III Sun Temple. It will be another day of delving into the past, uncovering more of the stories that Luxor holds within its ancient stones. Before that, I might check out Wine palace, as it is listed as one of tomorrow’s activities.

As I sit here, writing these words, I feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a rich and fascinating culture. It's a privilege to walk in the footsteps of pharaohs and artisans, to learn from their legacy, and to share these experiences with you.

There was a concert of Carrot Top in Las Vegas, and Bodies - The Exhibition at Luxor Hotel and Casino, but I am afraid that those events are a little too far away from Luxor, Egypt!

Until tomorrow!