The Colossi of Memnon:

Guardians of Ancient Thebes

As you approach Luxor’s west bank, two monumental stone figures rise dramatically from the plain, facing east toward the rising sun. Known as the Colossi of Memnon, these twin statues are all that remains of what was once one of the most magnificent temples in ancient Egypt—the mortuary temple of Pharaoh Amenhotep III.

Each statue stands about 18 meters (60 feet) tall and depicts the pharaoh seated, hands resting on his knees, gazing eternally toward the Nile. Carved from single blocks of quartzite sandstone transported from quarries near Cairo (over 600 km away), their sheer size and craftsmanship still inspire awe, thousands of years after they were built around 1350 BCE.

A Temple Lost to Time

The statues were originally placed at the entrance to Amenhotep III’s mortuary temple, a grand complex that once rivaled Karnak in scale and splendor. Unfortunately, most of the temple was destroyed over time—likely due to floods, earthquakes, and the repurposing of building materials by later civilizations. Today, the Colossi are the temple’s most visible remnants, standing defiantly as guardians of a lost world.

Recent excavations, however, have uncovered more of the original complex—including additional statues, walls, and inscriptions—giving archaeologists hope of reconstructing more of this ancient masterpiece.

The Singing Statues

In ancient times, the Colossi were famous not just for their size, but for their mysterious sound. After an earthquake in 27 BCE cracked the northern statue, visitors began to report a strange “singing” or “whistling” sound at dawn. The phenomenon was so well-known in the Greco-Roman world that the statue was nicknamed “Memnon”, after the Trojan War hero whose voice was said to greet the morning.

Roman emperors and curious travelers came from far and wide to hear it. The phenomenon ceased in the 3rd century CE when the statue was repaired—much to the dismay of superstitious visitors.

Tips for Visiting the Colossi of Memnon

Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for soft light and fewer crowds. The statues face east, so sunrise lighting is ideal for photography.
No entrance fee: The site is open to the public and free to visit, often included as a quick stop on the way to the Valley of the Kings.
Combine with nearby sites: The Colossi are near the Temple of Hatshepsut, Medinet Habu, and Ramesseum, making it a great addition to a full day of exploring Luxor’s west bank.
Guides optional but helpful: While signage is limited, local guides can provide fascinating insights into the statues and the temple they once guarded.

Did You Know?

Built over 3,000 years ago, these statues have endured countless earthquakes, floods, and invasions—and still stand tall.

Some ancient graffiti on the Colossi includes Greek and Latin inscriptions from Roman tourists, essentially the world’s earliest travel reviews!

Amenhotep III’s mortuary temple, though mostly destroyed, was once the largest temple in Egypt, even larger than Karnak at its peak.

Location

Hours

Every day 24 hours. The site is next to the road, without fences or doors.

Free Entrance

Wondering what to wear or when to go? Check our Egypt guide to discover more!

Check Egypt Travel Guide

Are you ready to start discovering Egypt?

I decided to book a couple tours when I went to Egypt and had a blast! I’m leaving the link to the tour below in case you are interested!

Are you ready to start discovering Egypt?

I decided to book a couple tours when I went to Egypt and had a blast! I’m leaving the link to the tour below in case you are interested!

The Colossi of Memnon:

Guardians of Ancient Thebes

A Temple Lost to Time

The Singing Statues

Tips for Visiting the Colossi of Memnon

Did You Know?

Location

Hours

Free Entrance

Wondering what to wear or when to go? Check our Egypt guide to discover more!

Are you ready to start discovering Egypt?

Are you ready to start discovering Egypt?

More things to see in Egypt