: Tours and Excursion

Colossi of Memnon

The Colossi of Memnon are two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, who reigned during the 18th Dynasty of ancient Egypt. The statues stand at the entrance of Amenhotep's mortuary temple, which was once the largest in Egypt but has largely been destroyed over time. The Colossi are made of quartzite sandstone and depict the pharaoh seated on his throne.

History & Origins

The statues were erected around 1350 BCE and originally stood guard at the entrance of Amenhotep III's mortuary temple. The temple was a grand complex, but it was located too close to the Nile and was eventually destroyed by floods and earthquakes. Only the Colossi remain today, though they have suffered significant damage over the centuries.

The statues are named after Memnon, a hero of the Trojan War, because of a legend that one of the statues would 'sing' at dawn. This phenomenon was caused by temperature changes and humidity, which caused the stone to emit a musical sound. The sound stopped after the statue was repaired in the Roman era.

The Colossi have been a tourist attraction since ancient times, with visitors including the Roman Emperor Hadrian and his wife Sabina.

Architecture & Features

Each statue is about 18 meters tall and weighs approximately 720 tons. They were carved from single blocks of quartzite sandstone, transported from quarries near modern-day Cairo. The statues depict Amenhotep III wearing the nemes headdress and a pleated kilt, symbols of his royal status.

The bases of the statues are decorated with reliefs depicting the pharaoh's family, including his wife Queen Tiye and his daughter Henuttaneb. These reliefs provide valuable insights into the royal family and the art of the period.

Legends & Facts

The 'singing' of the Colossi was a famous phenomenon in antiquity. The sound was believed to be the voice of Memnon greeting his mother, the dawn goddess Eos. The sound stopped after the statue was repaired, possibly due to changes in the stone's structure.

Another interesting fact is that the Colossi were partially buried in sand for centuries, which helped preserve them from further erosion. They were excavated in the 19th century and have since become one of the most iconic landmarks of Luxor.

The statues also bear inscriptions left by ancient tourists, including Greek and Roman visitors who came to hear the 'singing' of Memnon.

Tourist Tips

The Colossi are easily accessible and can be visited at any time of day. They are particularly impressive at sunrise or sunset, when the light enhances their grandeur. There is no need for a guided tour, as the site is self-explanatory.

Nearby

• Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut - A stunning terraced temple dedicated to the female pharaoh.
• Valley of the Kings - The burial site of many pharaohs, including Tutankhamun.
• Luxor Temple - A large ancient temple complex in the heart of Luxor.
• Karnak Temple - One of the largest religious buildings ever constructed.
• Deir el-Medina - The ancient village of the workers who built the tombs in the Valley of the Kings.

Practical FAQ for Travelers

What are the opening hours?

The site is open 24 hours, but visiting during daylight is recommended.

What is the best time to visit?

Early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and cooler temperatures.

How much time should I allocate for the visit?

About 30 minutes to an hour.

Is photography allowed?

Yes, photography is allowed without restrictions.

Is the site accessible for people with mobility issues?

Yes, the site is flat and easily accessible.

Are there any dress code requirements?

No specific dress code, but modest clothing is recommended.