Colossi of Memnon
Two colossal statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, standing as the sole remnants of his vast mortuary temple on Luxor's West Bank.
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Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Colossi of Memnon
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Two colossal statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, standing as the sole remnants of his vast mortuary temple on Luxor's West Bank.
"Their sheer size and presence were overwhelming—a moment too powerful to capture in a photo."
Free to Admire
Enjoy these massive statues without an admission fee! :moneywithwings:
Sun Protection is Key
The desert sun is intense. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Twin Giants
West Bank of Luxor
Two colossal statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, standing guard for millennia.
Echoes of the Past
Base of the statues
Imagine the 'singing' statue that captivated ancient travelers.
A Free Spectacle
Near the main road
An awe-inspiring free attraction offering a glimpse into ancient grandeur.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Statues
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free to Admire
Enjoy these massive statues without an admission fee! :moneywithwings:
Sun Protection is Key
The desert sun is intense. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. :sunwithface:
Combine Your Visit
Easily combined with other West Bank sites like Valley of the Kings. :bus:
Perspective Matters
Stand close to truly grasp their immense scale. :statueofliberty:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free to Admire
Enjoy these massive statues without an admission fee! :moneywithwings:
Sun Protection is Key
The desert sun is intense. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. :sunwithface:
Combine Your Visit
Easily combined with other West Bank sites like Valley of the Kings. :bus:
Perspective Matters
Stand close to truly grasp their immense scale. :statueofliberty:
Ancient Echoes
Learn about the 'singing' statue legend. :musical_note:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the sheer scale and historical significance of the Colossi of Memnon, noting their impressive presence as free-to-view ancient monuments. While some mention the surrounding area is still under excavation, the statues themselves are a powerful reminder of ancient Egypt's grandeur. The 'singing' legend adds a layer of intrigue for many.
"Huge statues close to main road leading to the Valley of the workers, Habu Temple, and the various other attractions on the West Bank of the Nile in Luxor.
Nice to stop by to see these. There’s some excavations taking place in the immediate area which looks as if will be a new attraction. Free attraction."
Legends l
"The Colossi of Memnon are actually statues of Amenhotep III. Many inscriptions on the statues mention Memnon, a king from Greek mythology, which misled people at the time. These two towering statues have stood silently in the desert for thousands of years, as if guarding this ancient land. Although weathered by time and the elements, they still majestically overlook the travelers passing by. -6/1/25"
詹頤
"The Colossi of Memnon are two massive stone statues standing proudly on the west bank of the Nile near Luxor.
These imposing figures, each about 18 meters tall, once guarded the entrance to the mortuary temple of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, built in the 14th century BCE during the height of the New Kingdom. Today, the temple is largely gone, but these monumental statues remain as silent witnesses to its former grandeur.
Carved from single blocks of quartzite sandstone, the statues depict Amenhotep III seated on his throne, hands resting on his knees, gazing toward the rising sun. Their sheer size and craftsmanship reflect the power and authority of the pharaoh, as well as the skill of ancient Egyptian sculptors.
The term “Memnon” comes from Greek mythology. Memnon was a legendary Ethiopian king and a hero of the Trojan War. According to myth, Memnon was associated with the rising sun and was believed to greet the dawn. When one of the statues began to emit a mysterious, melodious sound at sunrise —likely caused by heat expanding the cracked stone after the 27 BCE earthquake— Greeks and Romans connected this phenomenon to Memnon’s myth, interpreting it as the hero greeting his mother, the dawn."
Lefteris Stamatelatos
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Colossi of Memnon are located on the West Bank of Luxor. You can reach them by taxi, private car, or as part of a guided tour. Many tours to the Valley of the Kings and other West Bank sites include a stop here. :taxi: :bus:
Yes, they are very visible from the main road on the West Bank, making them easy to spot. :road:
If you are staying on the West Bank, it might be possible to walk, but it's a significant distance from most accommodations. Taxis or tours are more practical. :walking: :car:
Hiring a private driver or joining a guided tour is highly recommended for efficiently visiting multiple West Bank attractions like the Colossi, Valley of the Kings, and Hatshepsut's Temple. :tour_bus:
There is usually space for vehicles to pull over near the statues, especially for tour buses. :parking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Colossi of Memnon are a free attraction. You can view them from the roadside without purchasing a ticket. :ticket:
As an outdoor monument, there are no official opening or closing hours. You can visit them at any time, though daylight hours are best for viewing. :clock1:
There is no entrance fee to see the Colossi of Memnon. :moneywithwings:
Yes, you can walk right up to the base of the statues to appreciate their scale. :statueofliberty:
No specific restrictions are mentioned, but it's always respectful to avoid climbing on the ancient structures. :pray:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main activity is marveling at the sheer size and history of the statues. You can take photos, learn about their past, and imagine the grandeur of the original temple. :camera: :scroll:
A brief stop of 15-30 minutes is usually sufficient to appreciate the statues and take photos. :stopwatch:
Typically, there are no dedicated facilities directly at the Colossi. You might find vendors selling water or souvenirs nearby, but it's best to use facilities at your hotel or other attractions. :waterwave: :shoppingcart:
They are statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III and are the only remaining part of his vast mortuary temple. They are famous for the 'singing' phenomenon reported by ancient Greeks and Romans. :ancientegypt: :musicalnote: 
Yes, hot air balloon rides over Luxor often provide aerial views of the Colossi of Memnon, offering a unique perspective. :hotairballoon:
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow. :sunrise: :city_sunset:
Capture wide shots to show their scale against the landscape, close-ups of the intricate carvings, and shots with people for perspective. :camerawithflash:
The area around the statues provides ample space. For a different perspective, consider a hot air balloon ride. :hotairballoon:
Drone usage regulations can be strict in Egypt. It's best to check current rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone. :drone: :no_entry:
Include people or vehicles in your shots to give a sense of their immense size. :person_standing: :car:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection, as it can get very hot. Consider making it a quick stop before heading to more interactive sites like the Valley of the Kings, or use it as a visual aid to discuss ancient Egyptian pharaohs and their monumental building projects. The statues are easily visible from the road, making it a convenient stop for families on the go. :child: :sunwithface:
💰 Budget Travelers
While many other sites have entrance fees, the Colossi offer a substantial historical and visual experience for free. Pack your own snacks and water to save money, and enjoy the impressive sight of these ancient giants. :moneywithwings: :backpack:
📸 Photographers
Experiment with wide-angle shots to emphasize their scale against the desert landscape, or use people as a reference point to highlight their immense size. Consider incorporating them into a larger West Bank photo tour, perhaps even capturing them from a hot air balloon for an unparalleled aerial perspective.
+1 Remember to be respectful of the site and any ongoing archaeological work. :camerawithflash: :golden_hour:Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystery of the Singing Statue
+1This 'singing' made the Colossi a significant tourist attraction in the classical world, drawing visitors who were eager to witness this marvel. While the singing stopped after later repairs, the legend persists, adding a layer of mystique to these ancient monuments. It's a testament to how these statues have captivated human imagination for millennia.
+1Today, while the singing is no longer heard, standing before these colossal figures still evokes a sense of awe and wonder, allowing visitors to connect with the ancient stories and the enduring power of these stone guardians. :musicalnote: :ancientegypt:
Engineering Marvels of Ancient Egypt
These massive blocks were quarried in Gebel el-Ahmar, near Cairo, and transported over 400 miles to Luxor. These statues once stood as the entrance guardians to the mortuary temple of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, which was one of the largest temples ever built in Egypt.
+1 The sheer scale of the temple, now largely in ruins, is hinted at by the monumental statues that remain. The craftsmanship involved in carving and transporting these figures showcases the advanced capabilities of ancient Egyptian artisans and engineers. +1Despite the ravages of time, earthquakes, and floods, the Colossi of Memnon endure as powerful symbols of ancient Egyptian ambition and skill. Their continued presence offers a tangible link to a civilization that achieved extraordinary feats of construction and artistry. :hammerandwrench: :stone:
A Free Glimpse into Thebes' Grandeur
They stand as the sole remaining remnants of the vast mortuary temple of Amenhotep III, a testament to the temple's former magnificence.
+1 Even in their current state, weathered by millennia, their imposing presence provides a powerful impression of the scale and grandeur of ancient Thebes. +1Visiting the Colossi is often a brief but impactful part of a larger West Bank tour. Their proximity to the main road makes them an easy and worthwhile stop, offering a moment of reflection on the enduring legacy of ancient Egypt. :moneywithwings: :ancient_egypt:
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