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Remaining Luxor Obelisk: A Silent Witness to History

A towering testament to ancient Egyptian power, the Remaining Luxor Obelisk stands as a sentinel of history at the entrance to Luxor Temple.

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Standing tall at the Luxor Temple, the Remaining Luxor Obelisk is a striking monument to ancient Egyptian craftsmanship. Once part of a pair, it bears hieroglyphs detailing the reign of Ramses II and serves as a powerful reminder of Luxor's glorious past.

A brief summary to Remaining Luxor Obelisk

  • PJ2Q+4WG, Luxor, Luxor City, Luxor Governorate, EG

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and harsh midday sun.
  • Take your time to examine the hieroglyphs; they tell the story of Ramses II's reign.
  • Hire a local guide to learn about the obelisk's history and significance within the Luxor Temple complex.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From most hotels along the Corniche, the Remaining Luxor Obelisk is easily accessible by foot. Head south along the Corniche, and you'll find the Luxor Temple entrance. The obelisk is located near the entrance of the temple. Walking is free and offers a pleasant way to experience the city.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Luxor. A short taxi ride from anywhere in the city center to the Luxor Temple should cost approximately 30-50 EGP. Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated.

  • Public Transport

    Local microbuses (service taxis) operate on circuits around the town. Any journey in a microbus should cost around 2 EGP. Get off near the Luxor Temple; the obelisk is a short walk from there. Microbuses can be crowded but offer an inexpensive way to get around.

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Discover more about Remaining Luxor Obelisk

The Remaining Luxor Obelisk is more than just a stone column; it's a direct link to the heart of ancient Thebes and the reign of Ramses II. For over 3,000 years, it has stood guard at the entrance of Luxor Temple, a silent witness to the rise and fall of empires. Carved from a single piece of red granite in Aswan, it was transported and erected with incredible precision, a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Egyptian engineers. Originally, two obelisks stood flanking the temple entrance. In the 1830s, the right-hand (western) obelisk was gifted to France and now graces the Place de la Concorde in Paris. In return, Egypt received a clock that still adorns the Citadel of Cairo. The remaining obelisk, slightly taller than its Parisian twin, features intricate hieroglyphs that narrate the achievements and divine connections of Ramses II. These inscriptions, designed to be viewed from specific angles, served as both overt and secret propaganda, reinforcing the pharaoh's power. Visible on the pedestal are carvings of baboons with raised paws, symbolizing adoration of the rising sun. Though time has weathered its surface, the Remaining Luxor Obelisk continues to inspire awe and invites contemplation of the rich history etched into its very being.

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