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The Colossi of Memnon: Sentinels of Ancient Thebes

Marvel at the Colossi of Memnon, towering statues of an ancient pharaoh, standing guard on Luxor's West Bank for over 3,400 years.

The Colossi of Memnon are two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, standing guard on the West Bank of Luxor. These imposing figures, dating back to 1350 BCE, once flanked the entrance to Amenhotep III's mortuary temple, a vast complex that has mostly disappeared over time.

A brief summary to Colossus of Memnon on the West Bank

  • West Bank, Valley of the, Kings Road, Luxor, Luxor City, Luxor Governorate, EG

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and harsh sunlight.
  • Wear sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes, as you'll be exposed to the sun and walking on uneven ground.
  • Bring water to stay hydrated, especially during the hotter months.
  • Take a walk around the Colossi to observe the differences in damage between the front and rear sides.
  • Combine your visit with other West Bank attractions like the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    The most convenient way to reach the Colossi of Memnon is by taxi from Luxor. Taxis are readily available throughout the city. A taxi ride from Luxor to the Colossi takes approximately 15 minutes and typically costs between $2 and $4. Agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Public Transport

    While Luxor doesn't have a comprehensive public transit system, buses or shared taxis can take you closer to the Colossi. From the main bus station in Luxor, take a local bus heading towards the West Bank. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Colossi of Memnon. From the drop-off point, you may need to walk a short distance (around 10-15 minutes) to reach the statues. The bus fare is typically very low, around 5-10 EGP.

  • Walking

    For those staying on the West Bank or feeling adventurous, it's possible to walk to the Colossi of Memnon. From many points on the West Bank, the Colossi are easily visible and can be reached by following the main road. Be prepared for a walk of at least 1 hour, depending on your starting point, and take necessary precautions against the heat.

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Discover more about Colossus of Memnon on the West Bank

The Colossi of Memnon are iconic symbols of ancient Egypt, standing as silent witnesses to millennia of history. Located on the West Bank of the Nile River, near the city of Luxor, these colossal statues depict Pharaoh Amenhotep III seated on his throne. Carved from single blocks of quartzite sandstone, each statue rises to a height of 18 meters (60 feet) and weighs approximately 720 tons. Originally, the Colossi served as guardians of Amenhotep III's mortuary temple, a grand complex dedicated to his memory and the god Amun-Ra. The temple, known as the "House of Millions of Years," was once one of the largest and most opulent in Egypt, rivaling even the Temple of Karnak. However, centuries of Nile floods, earthquakes, and the practice of reusing stone for new constructions led to the temple's decline, leaving only the two Colossi standing. The statues acquired the name "Colossi of Memnon" from the ancient Greeks, who associated them with Memnon, a hero of the Trojan War and son of Eos, the goddess of dawn. Following an earthquake in 27 BCE, the northern statue developed cracks that caused it to emit a mysterious, melodious sound at sunrise. The Greeks believed this sound to be Memnon greeting his mother each morning, transforming the statues into a site of pilgrimage. The phenomenon of the "Vocal Memnon" persisted for several centuries, drawing visitors from across the Mediterranean until repairs ordered by the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus in the 2nd century CE silenced the statue. Today, the Colossi of Memnon remain a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world. They offer a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Egypt and the enduring legacy of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. Despite the ravages of time, these colossal statues continue to inspire awe and wonder, standing as testaments to the ingenuity and artistry of the ancient Egyptians.

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