Colossi of Memnon

One of the biggest tourist attractions in Luxor, the Colossi of Memnon gained popularity due to its majestic appearance and for the mysterious

sounds emitted by the Northern Colossus statue at every sunrise.

Where is the Colossi of Memnon located?

In the West Bank of Luxor, Egypt, two magnificent twin statues of pharaoh Amenhotep III, and two smaller statues carved by his feet (one being his wife and the other his mother) stand graciously on the horizon of the magnificent Luxor Horizon.

The two statues, each measuring 60 feet tall, stand at the entrance of Amenhotep III’s mortuary temple. They are famously named by the name of Colossi of Memnon due to a phenomenon produced by one of the statues after an earth quake.

Originally built in the Theban Necropolis in the west of the Nile River in the modern city of Luxor, the Colossi of Memnon, two colossal statues made of quartzite sandstone, which archaeologists believe was quarried at El-Gabal el-Ahmar, located near modern Cairo and then transported 420 miles

overland to the ancient city of Thebes, remaining after thousands of years.

When was the Colossi of Memnon built?

Memnoon_Colosal_In_Egypt

Pharaoh Amenhotep III reigned in Egypt during the 18th Dynasty from 1386 to 1349. During his kingdom, Egypt experienced a time of great prosperity and artistic progress, this era was known as the Old Kingdom. During the Old Kingdom, the architectural work improved tremendously

in Egypt, and most of these monuments are still standing today. Many of these majestic monuments were built during Amenhotep III’s 39

years of reign including the ColoMemnon, and Memnon whose construction was completed by 1350 BC. The Colossi of Memnon was constructed

in front of which once was Amenhotep III’s temple (destroyed by an earthquake soon after its completion). Amenhotep Temple served as a funerary temple to the Pharaoh Amenhotep III. Due to an earthquake in 27 BC, the Colossi of Memnon was partially destroyed and then restored by Roman emperors during the Roman Empire in ancient Egypt.

The origin of Colossi of Memnon’s name

Its modern Arabic name is Kom el-Hatan but the Colossi of Memnon is better known for its Roman name, the Temple of Memnon. A hero of the Trojan War, Memnon was a king of Ethiopia who traveled with his army from Africa to Asia Minor to help defend

the belea guered city under attack but it was slain by Achilles.

Colossi of memnoon

Colossi Of Memnon

Memnon’s name which means steadfast or resolute, was the son of Eos, known for being the goddess of dawn. Memnon was associated with

the Colossi many years after its construction due to the cry at the statue, of the northern statue also known as the “Vocal Memnon.” Memnon

eventually became known as the “Ruler of the West.” The Guardians of the Gate: What was the Colossi of Memnon used for? It was acting as guardians to the Temple of Amenhotep III. The Colossi of Memnon was meant to protect the Pharaoh’s temple from evil. Even though the temple was destroyed by a severe earthquake, the Colossi of Memnon remains standing strongly for thousands of years.

The legend of the “Vocal Memnon”

Due to an earthquake in 27 BC, the northern Colossus was partially destroyed, collapsing from the waist up and cracking the lower half. Following this event, the remains of the northern colossus started to “sing” an hour or two before sunrise, right at dawn.

The sound was mostly heard in the months of February or March but this might have been because those were the months where people were mostly

reported to visit the statues. The sound was described as a “blow” according to the Greek historian and geographer Strabo, who heard the sound on his visit to it in 20 BC.

The legend about the “Vocal Memnon” says that it brought good luck to those who listened to its strange sounds. This rumor became known outside of Egypt, which brought many foreign visitors, including several Roman Emperors

in search of the blessing that the “Vocal Memnon” could bring.

Colossi of Memnon

Since its popularity, many throughout history and to modern days have tried to demystify the “Vocal Memnon” but no explanation has yet been proved to this day and they remain yet another mystery of the ancient Egyptian civilization.

FAQs

What are the must-see attractions in Luxor? +

Popular Attractions According to forum posts, the must-see attractions in Luxor include the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and the Luxor Temple. These sites are rich in ancient Egyptian history and architecture, offering a glimpse into the past civilizations. Additional Historical Sites Travelers have called out the Valley of the Queens, Medinet Habu, and the Colossi of Memnon as noteworthy places. The Valley of the Queens, known for its beautifully decorated tombs, and Medinet Habu, recognized for its detailed reliefs, are particularly emphasized for their historical significance. Unique Experiences For a unique perspective, some users recommend taking a hot air balloon ride over the city at sunrise. This provides a breathtaking aerial view of Luxor's landscape and major archaeological sites, offering a different vantage point compared to ground tours

What are the taxi services available in Luxor? +

Taxi Availability and Pricing According to forum posts, taxis are abundant in Luxor, and travelers can expect to pay around 70LE for a trip from the Luxor bus station to the Iberotel Luxor. Users suggest starting the price negotiation at 50LE and not going beyond 70LE, although initial price quotes from drivers can be much higher. Ride-Hailing Services Some travelers mentioned using the Careem app, which operates similarly to Uber and is available in Luxor. However, there are mixed reports about the availability of cars through the app, with one user noting sparse availability in November 2021. As of the latest updates, Uber does not provide services in Luxor. Local Travel Tips For many users, negotiating taxi fares is common, and knowing approximate prices helps avoid being overcharged. Travelers also recommend using local drivers, who can be contacted via WhatsApp to negotiate prices, ensuring reliable transportation without the need for on-the-spot bargaining.

What are the walking experiences at the Avenue of Sphinxes? +

According to forum posts, the Avenue of Sphinxes, also known as the Path of God, connects Luxor Temple and Karnak. It features a variety of antiquities including Roman-era wine presses and a late Pharaonic nilometer. Travelers have mentioned that the path is adorned with numerous sphinx statues and has several interpretation boards providing historical insights. Accessibility and Amenities Some travelers have noted that while the path itself is largely modern with hand-chiseled paving that blends well with the surroundings, wheelchair users might find it challenging due to some uneven sections. There are several rest stops with seating and canopies for shade along the route, although there are no toilets available except at the entrance points (Luxor and Karnak Temples). Experience and Recommendations Travelers have called out the excellent directional signage in both Arabic and English, enhancing the visitor experience. Despite the physical challenges, the Avenue of Sphinxes offers a rich walking experience filled with historical and cultural insights, making it a recommended visit for those exploring Luxor.

Is the Tomb of Queen Nefertari open to visitors? +

Current Status According to forum posts, the Tomb of Queen Nefertari is currently closed for restoration. There is no indicated reopening date, which suggests that it might remain closed for an extended period. Visitor Experience Prior to Closure Some travelers mentioned visiting the tomb before its sudden closure, describing the experience as magnificent. They noted that the tomb guardian provided an exceptional tour, showcasing a deep pride in caring for the site.

What are the highlights of the Valley of the Kings? +

Accessibility and Assistance According to forum posts, the Valley of the Kings (VoK) is generally accessible, with an electric train covering large segments at the entrance, making it easier for those who might find long walks challenging. Travelers have called out that tomb guardians are often available to assist visitors with mobility issues. Site Features and Recommendations Some travelers said that VoK houses over 60 tombs, featuring stunning artwork and carvings depicting ancient funeral processes and interactions with gods. Key highlights include the tombs of Tutankhamun, Seti I, and Ramesses V/VI. The tomb of Tutankhamun is especially famous, although it involves steps, which are facilitated with handrails. Additional Tips For many users, it's recommended to plan visits early in the day to avoid the heat and crowds. The site can be overwhelming, so taking photographs of tomb entrances has been suggested to help keep track of what was visited.

Where can I book a hot air balloon ride in Luxor? +

Booking Options According to forum posts, travelers can book hot air balloon rides directly with balloon companies in Luxor. Popular companies mentioned include Hod Hod Soliman, Sinbad, and Alaska. These companies offer direct booking options through their websites. Local Booking Advice Some users recommended visiting local travel agencies once in Luxor to compare prices and services, as the balloon companies are competitive with their pricing. This approach is especially useful if you have flexible travel dates or are looking for last-minute deals. Online Resources For those preferring to arrange their tours before arrival, it's advised to check the Things To Do section on TripAdvisor for a list of balloon flight providers. This allows potential travelers to contact companies directly, ensuring they receive the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding prices and availability.

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