Background

Luxor Temple: A Majestic Echo of Ancient Thebes

Explore the magnificent Luxor Temple, a journey through ancient Egyptian history and architectural brilliance in the heart of Luxor.

4.8

Located in the heart of Luxor, Egypt, Luxor Temple is a stunning testament to ancient Egyptian civilization. Built around 1400 BCE, the temple showcases colossal statues, intricate carvings, and towering columns dedicated to the Theban Triad: Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. Connected to Karnak Temple by the Avenue of Sphinxes, it offers a glimpse into the religious and royal life of ancient Thebes.

A brief summary to Luxor Temple

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the intense heat.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Hire a local guide to learn more about the temple's history and significance.
  • Check out the stunning lighting if you visit in the evening.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    Luxor Temple is centrally located in the city of Luxor, making it easily accessible on foot from many hotels and landmarks. If you are near the Luxor Museum or the Winter Palace, you can walk along the Corniche El Nile, enjoying the views of the Nile River. The temple is a short walk from most locations in downtown Luxor.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Luxor and are a convenient way to reach the temple. A short taxi ride within Luxor typically costs around 50 EGP or approximately €1, but it's always best to agree on the fare before starting your journey. Taxis can be found near major hotels, the train station, and other key points in the city.

  • Public Transport

    Microbuses and pick-up taxis (Kabout) are available for transport to Luxor Temple. To get to Luxor Temple, take a microbus from Luxor station or behind Luxor Temple. The cost is around 0.50 EGP.

Unlock the Best of Luxor Temple

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Luxor Temple

Luxor Temple, known in ancient times as Ipet-resyt or the 'Southern Sanctuary,' stands as a profound monument to the grandeur of ancient Thebes. Constructed around 1400 BCE during the New Kingdom era, the temple was primarily built by Pharaoh Amenhotep III and later expanded by rulers such as Tutankhamun, Horemheb, and Ramses II. Unlike other temples in Thebes, Luxor Temple was not dedicated to a cult god or a deified pharaoh. Instead, it was dedicated to the rejuvenation of kingship and may have been the site of many royal coronations. The temple complex features remarkable architecture and design, including colossal statues of pharaohs and intricately carved walls and columns. The Great Court, lined with statues of Ramses II, highlights the temple's splendor. The Hypostyle Hall contains 32 massive columns adorned with carvings of gods and pharaohs. Other significant areas include the chapel of the sacred barque and various rooms, each with unique designs and historical importance. Over the centuries, Luxor Temple has been repurposed and adapted. During the Christian era, the hypostyle hall was converted into a church, and a Coptic church was built to the west. Later, a mosque dedicated to Sufi Shaykh Yusuf Abu al-Hajjaj was constructed over the temple, which has been carefully preserved as part of the site. The temple's walls, made of mud bricks, symbolized the separation between the world of the Egyptians and their deities. Today, Luxor Temple remains a major attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to witness its beauty and historical significance.

Popular Experiences near Luxor Temple

Popular Hotels near Luxor Temple

Select Currency