The Majestic Colossi of Memnon: Guardians of Ancient Thebes
Explore the Colossi of Memnon, the monumental guardians of ancient Thebes, and immerse yourself in Egypt's rich history and breathtaking artistry.
The Colossi of Memnon, towering at 18 meters, are among the most impressive remnants of ancient Egyptian architecture. Located near the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, these two colossal statues represent Pharaoh Amenhotep III and stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time, captivating the imagination of tourists and historians alike. Originally part of a grand mortuary temple, the statues were constructed around 1350 BC. Despite the ravages of time and earthquakes, their majestic presence continues to draw visitors from around the globe, eager to witness a piece of Egypt's storied past. Upon visiting the Colossi of Memnon, tourists are often struck by the sheer scale and artistry of the statues, which depict the pharaoh seated on his throne, flanked by two smaller figures. The weathered stone is adorned with intricate hieroglyphics and inscriptions that tell the story of Amenhotep III's reign. As the sun rises and sets, the changing light casts dramatic shadows, enhancing the statues’ imposing features and creating a perfect backdrop for photography. The site is not just a destination for history enthusiasts but also a serene place for reflection. Travelers can enjoy the surrounding landscape, dotted with palm trees and the distant mountains, providing a picturesque setting that complements the grandeur of the statues. Moreover, the Colossi of Memnon are a short distance from other significant archaeological sites, such as the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut, making it an essential stop on any Luxor itinerary. Overall, a visit to the Colossi of Memnon promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of ancient Egypt, offering a unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the best light for photography.
- Bring water and sun protection, as there are limited shaded areas at the site.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Valley of the Kings for a full day of exploration.
- Consider hiring a local guide to share fascinating stories and insights about the history of the site.
A brief summary to Colossi of Memnon
- مدينة طيبة القديمة ومقبرتها, Al Qarna, Al Qarnah, Luxor Governorate, EG
- Monday 6 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-5 pm
- Thursday 6 am-5 pm
- Friday 6 am-5 pm
- Saturday 6 am-5 pm
- Sunday 6 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Walking
If you're starting from the center of Luxor, first head towards the Luxor Temple. From the Luxor Temple, proceed north on Khaled Ibn El Walid Street until you reach the intersection with the Corniche. Here, you can enjoy the view of the Nile. Continue walking along the Corniche until you reach the bridge that crosses the Nile to the West Bank. This will take approximately 20-30 minutes depending on your pace. After crossing the bridge, follow the road signs towards the Valley of the Kings. The Colossi of Memnon are located near the entrance to the Valley of the Kings, so keep an eye out for directional signs. The walk from the bridge to the Colossi of Memnon should take about 20-25 minutes.
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Horse Cart
From the center of Luxor (like near the Luxor Temple), find a horse-drawn carriage, which is a common way to travel short distances in Luxor. Negotiate a fare with the driver to take you to the Colossi of Memnon. The ride should take around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the horse's pace. Be sure to mention the Colossi of Memnon specifically, as the drivers are familiar with tourist destinations.
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Local Bus
You can take a local bus from the Luxor bus station, which is located near the city center. Look for buses heading towards the West Bank or the Valley of the Kings. Ask the bus driver or locals for advice on which bus to take, as they will help you find the right one. The ride will take about 30-40 minutes. Once you get off, look for signs directing you to the Colossi of Memnon, which is within walking distance from the bus stop.
Attractions Nearby to Colossi of Memnon
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Amenhotep III Sun Temple
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Ramesseum
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Temple d'Amon (Médinet Habou)
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Mortuary Temple of Thutmose III
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Tombs of the Nobles
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Tomb of Ramose TT55
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Deir el-Medina
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Tumba TT100 de Rekhmire
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Temple of Deir el-Medina
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Tomb Of Inherkha
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TT96 - Tomb of Sennefer
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TT1 - Tomb of Sennedjem
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Take-Off Hot Air Balloons
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Hot Air Balloon Location
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Hot air balloon Luxor Take Off Site
Landmarks nearby to Colossi of Memnon
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West Bank Private Transport Luxor
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El-Gezira Hotel & Restaurant
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Luxor Nile Ferry - West Bank
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Luxor day tour to East & West Banks
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Ancient Luxor Quay
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NBE ATM - Sofitel Winter Palace Hotel 1 Luxor - فندق سوفتيل 1 الأقصر
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Alexbank
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البنك الأهلي المصري فرع الاقصر
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ميدان أبوالحجاج
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Deir El-Shelwit Temple
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Rovine del tempio di thot
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Luxor Tours & Excursions
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Gateway of Ptolemy III Euergetes
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Temple Of Khonsu
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Avenue of the Rams