Colossi of Memnon - Giant Statues of Amenhotep III

Colossi of Memnon are two massive stone statues located on the west bank of the Nile River near Luxor, Egypt. They are the remnants of a mortuary temple built by Pharaoh Amenhotep III during the 18th Dynasty.

Overview

• Location: West bank of the Nile River, Luxor, Egypt
• Constructed: Around 1350 BC
• Significance: The statues originally flanked the entrance to Amenhotep III’s mortuary temple, which has since largely disappeared. They are renowned for their sheer size and historical inscriptions.

Visitor Fee

• Entry Fee:
  • There is no specific fee for visiting the Colossi of Memnon, but it is often included in tours of the West Bank archaeological sites.

Getting There

• Transportation:
  • By Car: The Colossi are easily accessible by car or taxi from Luxor, taking about 10-15 minutes from the city center.
  • By Tour: Many visitors visit the Colossi as part of organized tours of the West Bank.

What to See

1. Statues of Amenhotep III:
   • Description: The statues depict Amenhotep III seated on his throne, with inscriptions on the base and sides. Each statue is approximately 18 meters (59 feet) tall.
   • Significance: The statues were originally erected to guard the entrance to the Pharaoh’s mortuary temple and demonstrate the grandeur of his reign.
2. Inscriptions:
   • Description: The statues are inscribed with texts commemorating Amenhotep III and his achievements. The inscriptions provide historical context and details about the Pharaoh.
   • Significance: These inscriptions are important for understanding the historical and religious significance of the statues.
3. The Sound of the Colossi:
   • Description: The statues were once famous for their “singing” phenomenon. Early visitors reported that at dawn, the statues emitted a musical sound due to the expansion and contraction of the stone caused by temperature changes.
   • Significance: This phenomenon was linked to the ancient belief in the divine or supernatural qualities of the statues.

Why People Enjoy Coming Here

• Historical Importance: The Colossi are significant remnants of Amenhotep III’s grand mortuary temple and offer insight into ancient Egyptian architecture and art.
• Architectural Grandeur: The sheer size and craftsmanship of the statues are impressive and showcase the skills of ancient Egyptian sculptors.
• Cultural Significance: The statues provide a tangible link to ancient Egyptian religious practices and royal symbolism.

List of Activities

• Exploring the Statues: Examine the scale and details of the statues up close.
• Reading the Inscriptions: Study the inscriptions for historical context and understanding of Amenhotep III’s reign.
• Photography: Capture images of the imposing statues and the surrounding area.

Nearby Attractions

• Valley of the Kings: A famous burial site for many New Kingdom Pharaohs, located a short distance away.
• Temple of Hatshepsut: A mortuary temple dedicated to Pharaoh Hatshepsut, located nearby.
• Temple of Karnak: A vast temple complex dedicated to the god Amun, located to the north in Luxor.

Colossi of Memnon offer a striking and historical experience for visitors interested in ancient Egypt, showcasing the grandeur and significance of Pharaoh Amenhotep III’s reign.