The Colossi of Memnon are two seated statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, each about 18 meters tall, standing on the west bank of the Nile near Luxor. Built around 1350 BCE to guard the entrance of his mortuary temple, they have stood for more than 3,400 years and remain free to visit every day.
Key Takeaways
- Two statues, each about 18 meters tall, depict Pharaoh Amenhotep III seated; built around 1350 BCE during the 18th Dynasty
- Carved from single blocks of quartzite sandstone transported more than 700 km from quarries near modern Cairo
- In the Greek and Roman periods, one statue was known for producing a mysterious “singing” sound at dawn, linked to the mythical figure Memnon, son of the dawn goddess Eos
- Sit on the west bank near Luxor City as part of the Theban Necropolis, alongside the Temple of Hatshepsut, Valley of the Kings, and Valley of the Queens
- Free to visit daily; best seen at sunrise or late afternoon when the light is best and the desert air is cooler
History and Construction
The Colossi of Memnon once marked the grand entrance to the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III, a complex that was among the largest ever built in ancient Egypt, though it is now mostly in ruins. The two statues were carved from single blocks of quartzite sandstone transported more than 700 km from quarries near modern Cairo. Earthquakes and floods over the centuries partially destroyed the surrounding temple, but the statues themselves have endured for over 3,400 years.
The Legend of the Singing Statue
During the Greek and Roman periods, one of the two statues became famous for producing a mysterious sound at dawn. Travelers attributed the sound to the voice of Memnon, a legendary Ethiopian king and son of Eos, the Greek goddess of dawn, who according to myth fought and died in the Trojan War. Ancient visitors who came to hear the “singing statue” left inscriptions on its base, many of which are still visible today.
Location and the Theban Necropolis
The Colossi stand near Luxor City on the west bank of the Nile, as part of the Theban Necropolis. Neighboring sites include the Temple of Hatshepsut, the Valley of the Kings, and the Valley of the Queens, together forming an open-air record of Egypt’s New Kingdom art and architecture.
Nearby Attractions
Close to the Colossi, the Habu Temple records the military campaigns of Ramses III, and the Ramesseum Temple has large-scale reliefs and colossal statues of its own. On the east bank, the Avenue of Sphinxes once connected Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple along one of ancient Egypt’s main processional routes. Travelers going further afield sometimes pair a visit with Aswan City, the Temple Of Philae, and the Abu Simbel Temples.
Visiting Tips
The Colossi of Memnon are open daily and free to visit. The best light and photo conditions are early morning or late afternoon; shade is limited, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and water. The site is commonly included as a quick stop on a broader West Bank itinerary alongside sites such as the Luxor Museum.
Ongoing Excavation and Preservation
In recent decades, archaeologists have excavated the area around the Colossi, uncovering additional statues, sphinxes, and sections of Amenhotep III’s temple. This work continues to add detail to what is known about the temple complex and the wider Theban Necropolis. Visitors interested in archaeology can extend their understanding of the finds at the Luxor Museum.
FAQs About the Colossi of Memnon
1. Who built the Colossi of Memnon?
The Colossi of Memnon were built for Pharaoh Amenhotep III during the 18th Dynasty, around 1350 BCE, as guardians of his mortuary temple on the west bank of Luxor.
2. Why are they called the Colossi of Memnon?
During the Greek period, one statue emitted a mysterious sound at sunrise, which travelers associated with the mythic hero Memnon, the son of the dawn goddess Eos. Hence, the statues became known as the Colossi of Memnon.
3. Where are the Colossi of Memnon located?
They are located near Luxor City on the west bank of the Nile, close to major sites such as the Temple Of Hatshepsut and the Valley Of The Kings.
4. Can I visit the Colossi of Memnon for free?
Yes, visiting the Colossi of Memnon is free, and it is often included in guided tours such as the 6 day Egypt tour or other comprehensive Egypt Tour Packages.
5. What is the best way to include the Colossi in my trip?
The best way is to include it in a guided itinerary or Nile cruise experience, such as the Best Nile River Cruises, which combine comfort, expert guidance, and seamless access to Luxor’s top attractions.
