Colossi of Memnon

There are several fascinating tourist attractions located on the west bank of the Nile River, in Luxor, Egypt, including the Colossi of Memnon. The Colossi of Memnon are two massive stone statues that represent the Pharaoh Amenhotep III, who ruled Egypt in the 14th century BC, during the New Kingdom period. Each statue is more than 18 meters tall and weighs over 700 tons, making them one of the largest and most impressive statues in ancient Egypt.


History:

The figures of the Colossi of Memnon represent the Pharaoh Amenhotep III seated on his throne, and they depict him wearing the traditional royal garments and headdresses of ancient Egypt. The statues are made of quartzite, a hard and durable stone, that was brought from the quarries of Gebel el-Ahmar, located on the east bank of the Nile River. The carving and finishing of the statues were done with great skill and detail, particularly in the delicately depicted facial features of the Pharaoh.


According to ancient Egyptian mythology, the Colossi of Memnon are associated with the myth of Memnon, the son of Eos, the goddess of dawn. Memnon fought against the Greeks in the Trojan War, and after his death, Eos asked Zeus to grant him immortality. Zeus agreed, and from that day on, every morning, Memnon's statue would sing a song to greet the rising sun.


Nearby attractions:

The Colossi of Memnon are located in the vast open landscape of the Theban Necropolis, surrounded by other ancient monuments such as the Temple of Hatshepsut, the Valley of the Kings, and the Ramesseum. Visitors can admire the statues from afar or approach them to see the details of the carving and touch the stone. Visiting visitors should be aware that climbing on statues is strictly prohibited, and they should respect the law and the sanctity of the place.


Through the centuries, the Colossi of Memnon have captured the imagination of travelers and adventurers, and many claims to have heard their singing. However, the phenomenon of the singing of the Colossi of Memnon is purely natural, and it is caused by the changes in temperature and humidity that occur at dawn.


In conclusion, the Colossi of Memnon is a magnificent example of ancient Egyptian art and architecture that has stood the test of time. Their colossal size and intricate carving are a testament to the skill and knowledge of the ancient Egyptians. Currently, they attract visitors from all over the world, who come to marvel at their beauty and learn about Egypt's rich history and culture.

  • imageDuration Required
    3 hours

Address of Colossi of Memnon

Thebes, Al Qarnah, Al Qarna, Luxor Governorate 1341703, Egypt

Opening & Closing time of Colossi of Memnon

  • Monday
    06:00-17:00
  • Tuesday
    06:00-17:00
  • Wednesday
    06:00-17:00
  • Thursday
    06:00-17:00
  • Friday
    06:00-17:00
  • Saturday
    06:00-17:00
  • Sunday
    06:00-18:00

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