Background

Colossi of Memnon: Guardians of Ancient Thebes

Marvel at the Colossi of Memnon, colossal statues guarding the gateway to ancient Egyptian history on Luxor's West Bank.

4.6

The Colossi of Memnon are two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, standing as silent sentinels on the West Bank of Luxor. These imposing figures, remnants of a once-grand mortuary temple, offer a glimpse into the power and artistry of ancient Egypt.

A brief summary to Colossi of Memnon

  • مدينة طيبة القديمة ومقبرتها, Al Qarna, Al Qarnah, Luxor Governorate, EG

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven ground.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, as there is little shade.
  • Combine your visit with other West Bank attractions like the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple.
  • Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the Colossi.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Luxor city center, a taxi is the most convenient way to reach the Colossi of Memnon. Taxis are readily available and the journey takes approximately 15 minutes. Agree on a fare before starting your trip. A typical one-way fare should cost around 30-60 EGP.

  • Tour

    Many organized tours to Luxor's West Bank include a stop at the Colossi of Memnon. These tours often provide transportation from your hotel and cover multiple sites in a single trip. Prices vary depending on the tour operator and the inclusions, but expect to pay around $35-$95 USD for a half-day tour.

Unlock the Best of Colossi of Memnon

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Colossi of Memnon

The Colossi of Memnon are two colossal statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, dating back to around 1350 BC. Carved from quartzite sandstone, each statue stands approximately 18 meters (60 feet) tall and weighs around 720 tons. Originally, they guarded the entrance to Amenhotep III's mortuary temple, a vast complex that has mostly disappeared over time due to natural disasters and the reuse of its stones. The statues depict the pharaoh seated on his throne, hands resting on his knees, gazing east towards the Nile. The throne is adorned with images of his mother, wife, and the god Hapy, along with other symbolic engravings. Though weathered by time, the Colossi still evoke a sense of awe and wonder, testaments to the skill and vision of ancient Egyptian artisans. In ancient times, the statues were known for a peculiar phenomenon: the northern statue would emit a 'singing' sound at dawn. This was believed to be caused by cracks in the stone, created by an earthquake in 27 BC, which vibrated with the rising sun. The Greeks associated the statues with Memnon, a hero of the Trojan War, and believed the sound to be his mournful greeting to his mother, Eos, the goddess of dawn. Although the singing ceased after Roman repairs, the name 'Colossi of Memnon' stuck, and the site became a popular destination for ancient travelers. Today, the Colossi of Memnon remain a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world. They stand as enduring symbols of ancient Egypt's grandeur and a reminder of the pharaoh's power and legacy.

Popular Experiences near Colossi of Memnon

Popular Hotels near Colossi of Memnon

Select Currency