Solo Expedition to the Ancient Wonders of Luxor

Giants of the West Bank

Today was a day of colossal encounters and echoes of pharaohs on Luxor's West Bank. As an archivist, I'm used to handling delicate documents and artifacts, but nothing quite prepares you for the sheer scale and presence of these ancient monuments. It was a day filled with awe, reflection, and a deeper understanding of the incredible civilization that once thrived here.


My day began, as usual, with breakfast at the Iberotel Luxor Hotel's restaurant. The familiar spread of Egyptian cheeses, fresh bread, and strong coffee set me up perfectly for the day ahead. I was eager to explore more of Luxor’s historical sites, and today’s itinerary promised a journey back in time.


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

My first stop was the Colossi of Memnon. Even from a distance, these colossal statues are an imposing sight. As I approached, I was struck by their immense size; each statue stands about 18 meters high. These are the remnants of Amenhotep III's mortuary temple, which, sadly, was mostly destroyed over time. Standing before these giants, weathered by millennia, I felt a profound connection to the past. It's incredible to think that these statues have stood here since 1350 BC, silently witnessing the rise and fall of empires.


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

The Colossi of Memnon stand as silent sentinels, guarding the gateway to the past and whispering tales of pharaohs and forgotten empires.

As I walked around the Colossi, I noticed the intricate details on the remaining parts of the statues. The hieroglyphic inscriptions, though faded, told stories of the pharaoh's achievements and his connection to the gods. It was a poignant reminder of the ambition and artistry of ancient Egyptians. I made sure to take several photographs, trying to capture the scale and grandeur of these monuments, knowing full well that no image could truly do them justice.


Next on my itinerary was the Ramesseum, the mortuary temple of Ramses II. This site was even more extensive than I had imagined. Although much of the temple is in ruins, it's still possible to appreciate its original splendor. The Ramesseum was built to commemorate Ramses II's reign and to serve as a place of worship for the pharaoh after his death. As I wandered through the complex, I marveled at the towering, headless statues and the remnants of the hypostyle hall, surrounded by courts and storage rooms.


Explore the Ramesseum, a historical gem in Luxor, Egypt, showcasing the grandeur of Ramses II's reign through stunning ruins and ancient artistry.

One of the most striking features of the Ramesseum is the fallen colossus of Ramses II. This massive statue, now lying in pieces on the ground, is estimated to have been over six stories tall and is considered one of the largest freestanding sculptures ever created in Egypt. Seeing it in its current state, broken and fragmented, was a powerful reminder of the passage of time and the fragility of even the most imposing monuments. Yet, even in ruins, the Ramesseum exuded a sense of majesty and grandeur.


After spending the morning exploring these incredible sites, I was ready for lunch. I decided to try Gerda's Garden, a local restaurant known for its Egyptian and German cuisine. It was a delightful little place, owned by a German-Egyptian couple. I ordered the Egyptian moussaka, and it was absolutely delicious. The flavors were fresh, and the portion was generous. It was a perfect spot to relax and recharge before continuing my explorations.


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

In the late afternoon, with the sun beginning to dip in the sky, I decided to visit the King's Head Pub for a relaxing drink. I wanted to experience the nightlife in Luxor. This pub offers a unique blend of British charm and Egyptian hospitality. It's known for its extensive drink menu and traditional British dishes. I enjoyed a refreshing lager and chatted with some of the other tourists and locals. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. The King's Head Pub had a friendly atmosphere, and I can see why it's a popular spot for both locals and visitors.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The King's Head Pub in Luxor, where local culture meets delightful cuisine and refreshing drinks.

For dinner, I had made a reservation at Rosetta, a restaurant within the Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa. I was eager to try their international cuisine. The restaurant had a lovely ambiance, and the service was impeccable. I ordered the fish, and it was cooked to perfection. The staff was very attentive, and the overall experience was top-notch. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with historical exploration and cultural immersion.


Discover the authentic tastes of Egypt at Rosetta Buffet Restaurant in Luxor - where culinary tradition meets modern hospitality.

As I sit here this evening, reflecting on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder. Luxor's West Bank is truly a treasure trove of ancient history, and I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to explore these incredible sites. The Colossi of Memnon and the Ramesseum are testaments to the ambition and artistry of ancient Egyptians, and they continue to inspire awe and admiration centuries later.


Tomorrow, I plan to visit Deir el-Bahari and the Temple of Khnum. I'm particularly excited to see the unique architecture of Deir el-Bahari, also known as the Temple of Hatshepsut. It's another day filled with historical exploration and cultural immersion. I'm also looking forward to visiting the Old Market House Egyption Gift, to find some souvenirs to bring back to Berlin.


Before concluding, I wanted to share a funny little anecdote. While I was exploring the Ramesseum, I noticed a group of tourists struggling to take a group photo with the fallen colossus in the background. They were trying all sorts of angles and poses, but nothing seemed to work. Eventually, I offered to help, and after a few attempts, I managed to capture the perfect shot. They were so grateful, and it was a reminder of the shared experience of travel and the kindness of strangers.


My trip to Luxor continues to be an enriching and transformative experience. I am grateful for the opportunity to explore this ancient city and to share my experiences with you. Stay tuned for more adventures from the land of the pharaohs!


I must also admit that I completely forgot to pack my sunglasses before leaving Berlin, and the glare from the Egyptian sun has been quite intense. I need to remember to buy a pair tomorrow when I visit the Old Market House Egyption Gift. It's a small oversight, but it's a reminder that even the most organized travelers can sometimes forget the essentials.


I'm also thankful for Hans's support during this trip. Although he couldn't join me, his encouragement and enthusiasm have been a constant source of inspiration. And, of course, I miss Anna and our evening video calls. Sharing my experiences with them makes the journey even more meaningful.


I’m off to bed now, dreaming of temples and pharaohs. Goodnight from Luxor!