facebook tripadvisor tour_radar viatour

Colossi of Memnon

Overview 

The Colossi of Memnon, towering majestically on the west bank of the Nile near Luxor, Egypt, are two monumental statues that have fascinated visitors for millennia. These imposing statues, each standing about 18 meters tall and weighing approximately 720 tons, depict Pharaoh Amenhotep III and were originally erected around 1350 BCE to guard the entrance to his vast mortuary temple, which was the largest and most opulent in Egypt during its time. Though the temple itself lies in ruins today, the Colossi remain as enduring sentinels of ancient Egyptian grandeur. Renowned in antiquity for their enigmatic ability to "sing" at dawn—a phenomenon caused by the temperature change at sunrise that ceased after restoration efforts in Roman times—the Colossi of Memnon continue to captivate with their sheer scale and mysterious history. Each statue is intricately carved from single blocks of quartzite sandstone transported from quarries near Cairo, reflecting the incredible logistical and engineering skills of the ancient Egyptians. A visit to the Colossi of Memnon offers an evocative glimpse into the splendor of Egypt's past, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking to experience the timeless wonders of this ancient civilization.