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Colossi of Memnon
The Colossi of Memnon are two large statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III resting near the town of Thebes in Luxor Egypt. These sizes of statues can go up to 18m in height and have always been an inspiration to movie makers, expeditionists, archeologists and historians. Called the propylaeum, or gateway, they are colossal statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III in a seated position and are among the highlights of Thebes.
Historical Significance of the Colossi of Memnon
Originally known simply as the Colossi, they were carved in the fourteenth century BC and originally seemed to stand guard at the entrance to a colossal funerary temple of Amenhotep III, one of the richest pharaohs of ancient Egypt. What is now actually in ruins this structure was the biggest funerary temple ever built in Egypt and was created with the purpose of promoting the eternity and divinity of this ruler of Egypt.
The statues are made of quartzite sandstone and were transported about 600km from quarries in the vicinity of modern Cairo – a marvelous feat for Ancient Egypt. The original of each colossus shows Amenhotep III sitting down with his hands in his lap, and looking towards the east, towards the river Nile and the east. It is for this precise reason that this orientation was considered as representing eternal life, rebirth and the linking of the physical world to the sun god, Ra.
The Singing Statues
Perhaps the most interesting feature about the Colossi of Memnon is what is referred to as singing statues. During antiquity, wandering people, even such figures as the Greek historian Strabo mentioned that they heard musical notes coming from the northern statue at night. Conservatively speaking, this was the result of thermal expansion and contraction of the stone, but in view of it being a statue of a hero of the Trojan War, Memnon, the sound was considered as his greeting to his mother Eos (the dawn).
The song starts and stops only when Roman workers amidst the ruins repair it, but the story of singing statues still attracts tourists.
Visiting the Colossi of Memnon Today
Standing on the west bank of the Nile in the vicinity of the Valley of Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Ramesseum the Colossi of Memnon are a must see for any persons touring Luxor. The statues represent some of the early Egyptian art, civil engineering and mythological beliefs that are of special interest to visitors on Egypt related tours.
Why Visit the Colossi of Memnon?
The Colossi of Memnon are not only status but also the way to the kings’ kingdom and to the nuances of the great Egyptian past. Having full histories, interesting myths, and being situated close to the most iconic attractions of Luxor these statues are perfect for those who love history and archaeology, or merely want to have an extraordinary time.
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