Ruins and Monuments
Located in Upper Egypt along the River Nile, Luxor Governorate is renowned for its vast collection of well-preserved ancient Egyptian temples, tombs, and monuments that attract tourists from all over the world. Let’s explore some of its most notable attractions in detail.
- Place: Memnon Statues
- Country: Egypt
- Governorate: Luxor Governorate, Egypt
- Age: Originally built around 1350 BC
- Population: Uninhabited
- Discovered by: Giovanni Belzoni in 1816
- Famous for: The two massive colossal granite statues known as the Memnon statues
- Nearby locations: Thebes, Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple
Impressive Remnants of the Ancient Past
Standing proudly on the west bank of the Nile, theMemnon statues are considered one of the governorates top landmarks. Originally built around 1350 BC during the reign of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, the statues are situated in the remains of what used to be the magnificent Mortuary Temple of Amenhotep III. Known as Colossi of Memnon, the two massive granite statues depict the Pharaoh seated and once towered over 18 meters high. Only the northern statue and part of the southern one remain intact today, but their magnificence continues to awe visitors.
Astonishing Restorative Works Done by Giovanni Belzoni
In 1816, famous explorer Giovanni Belzoni discovered the statues buried up to their shoulders in sand after centuries of neglect. Belzoni carried out extensive restoration works that included clearing away debris, reconstructing broken fragments, and re-erecting the statues. His efforts revealed beautifully carved details including traditional pharaonic crowns, bracelets, and other royal regalia adorning the statues. The restoration ensured these remarkable relics from Luxor’s Golden Age remain on display as a powerful tribute to ancient Egyptian craftsmanship.
The Mysterious Daily 'Singing' of the Northern Statue
Perhaps the most curious aspect about these colossal sculptures is the ‘singing’ sound reportedly emitted from the northern statue at dawn every day. Belzoni and later travellers documented hearing a distinctive crackling or singing noise emanating from within the statue, especially during sunrise. While never proven, theories linked it to thermal expansion as the hot stones inside cooled with the rising sun. This mysterious phenomenon added to the majestic Memnon statues’ déjà vu and only fueled people’s mysticism about ancient Egypt.
An Absolute Must-Visit Attraction in Luxor
Situated along the Nile’s west bank, across from modern-day Luxor city, the Memnon Statues offer visitors the unique experience of admiring imposing pharaonic works in their grand historical context. At the premises, one can also view Roman and Greek inscriptions left behind by later travelers. The site sees constant renovation works to preserve its aged magnificence. For those fascinated by Egypt’s bygone eras, a trip to these remarkable guardians from long ago should definitely be included in every Luxor itinerary.
