Colossi of Memnon Guide
Guardians of the West: Witness Ancient Majesty Guide
The Colossi of Memnon are two massive stone statues of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III, standing as silent sentinels on the west bank of the Nile, across from the modern city of Luxor. These imposing figures, each around 18 meters (60 feet) tall, are a must-see for any visitor to the Theban Necropolis. They offer a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Egypt and serve as a poignant reminder of the passage of time. Originally, these statues stood guard at the entrance to Amenhotep III's mortuary temple, a vast complex that has largely disappeared over the centuries due to flooding and the removal of stone for other construction projects. The statues themselves suffered damage from an earthquake in 27 BC, which caused the northern statue to emit a strange singing sound at dawn. This phenomenon, attributed to the evaporation of moisture within the cracked stone, led the Greeks to associate the statue with Memnon, a hero of the Trojan War who was said to sing to his mother, Eos, the goddess of dawn. Today, visitors can walk around the Colossi, marveling at their scale and the intricate details that remain despite the erosion of time. While the mortuary temple is mostly gone, the Colossi still evoke a sense of awe and wonder. There are often local vendors selling souvenirs nearby. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition directly associated with the Colossi, you'll find plenty of opportunities to sample traditional Egyptian cuisine in nearby Luxor, including dishes like ful medames (fava bean stew), koshari (a mix of pasta, rice, lentils, and tomato sauce), and ta'ameya (falafel).
Transportation
The Colossi of Memnon are located on the West Bank of Luxor. The easiest way to reach them is by taxi or private car from Luxor. You can also take a local bus heading towards the West Bank, but be prepared for a potentially crowded and slower journey. Many tour operators include the Colossi as part of a larger West Bank tour.