Colossi of Memnon: A Must-See Landmark in Luxor

The Colossi of Memnon are two massive statues at Luxor in Egypt that have stood the test of time for more than 3,400 years. Ancient Egyptian statues formerly stood guard at the mortuary temple of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, prior to when they served as a testament to Egyptian architectural grandeur. All tourists, ranging from history lovers and photographers and Luxor site-visit lovers, should see this monument. This guide will give you the history as well as interesting facts, along with travel tips required to help you make the most of your journey to these attractions.

These Memnon statues are not just yet another monument, but they form an integral part of the foray of tourist destinations in Luxor, especially, and in Egypt, in general, owing to the splendid history that they portray.

If you have a one-day tour in Luxor and an Egypt tour, don’t forget this UNESCO World Heritage Site—the Location of the Colossi of Memnon.

The Colossi of Memnon are located on the west bank of the Nile River in Luxor, Egypt. These towering statues once stood at the entrance of the grand mortuary temple of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, one of the largest temples of ancient Egypt. While much of the temple has been lost to time due to earthquakes and erosion, the statues remain as enduring symbols of Egypt’s glorious past.

How to get there

• From Luxor city center, it’s a 20-minute drive.

• Several attractions in Luxor tours, including those to the Valley of the Kings, regularly feature the Colossi as part of their itinerary.

• Those wishing to explore on their own can take a taxi or rent a bicycle and ride to the site.

The statues’ location makes it easy for tourists who want to visit historical sites on a Luxor day tour or Luxor excursions to include them seamlessly.

Constructed by Pharaoh Amenhotep III in his reign (1391–1353 BC) during the 18th Dynasty, they were part of his massive mortuary temple, once the largest and most glorious structure in ancient Egypt. Amenhotep III decreed the construction of these giant sculptures in the declaration of his divine nature and authority. Earthquakes and floods from the Nile eventually destroyed most of the temple, leaving these statues as a poignant reminder of its former glory and an absolute highlight on any Egypt tour.

Here are some intriguing facts that will enrich your visit:

Great Height and Engineering Genius

These statues stand about 18 meters (59 feet) high and weigh about 720 tons. Carved out of quartzite sandstone, the stones were transported roughly 675 km from south of Luxor to Gebel el‑Silsila, speaking of great engineering genius.

Mystery of the Singing Statue

This noble statue was once said to have melodious sounds emitting from it during sunrise. The ancient Greeks considered this to be a supernatural occurrence, but modern theories hold it to be due to vibrations caused by temperature changes in the stone. These sounds disappeared after Emperor Septimius Severus restored the statue around 200 AD.

Greek and Roman Inscriptions

Countless tourists from the Greek and Roman periods carved their names and messages on the statues, thereby preserving a 2,000-year legacy of early tourism and appreciation for sights in Luxor.

An Exhibit of Olympic Power

The carving portrays Amenhotep III enthroned with his mother and wife and the Nile god Hapi, grounding his divine authority—a standout symbol during any day tour at Luxor.

The Colossi of Memnon are a must-visit site in Luxor, so be sure to include them in your itinerary. Here are some options:

• Private Tours: Personal guides on the Luxor adventure tour can provide deeper insight into the statues.

• Group Tours: These majestic colossi are often featured on tours that include the Valley of the Kings.

• Self-Guided Tour: For those who prefer freedom, taxis and bicycle rentals are readily available in Luxor.

Best Time to Get There:

• Early morning (before 10 AM) to beat the crowds and enjoy soft sunlight on the statues.

• Late afternoon offers quieter visits and beautiful sunset views.

Entry Fee:

The Colossi of Memnon are freely accessible—no entrance fee required, making them an excellent stop on your Day trip to Luxor.

The Colossi of Memnon tower not just in height but in their representation of Egypt’s rich history and architectural mastery. Whether fascinated by their mythic past, their engineering, or their silent grandeur, these statues will leave an unforgettable mark on anyone exploring Luxor. Don’t miss them on your planned Egypt tour—they are among the most iconic things to do in Luxor and essential for a culturally rich journey.

ET

Egypt Day Trips Team

Egyptologists, travel designers and trip coordinators

Last reviewed 30 July 2026 · first published 3 March 2025

The in-house team at Egypt Day Trips — licensed Egyptologist guides, travel designers and on-the-ground coordinators who plan and lead every journey themselves from our Cairo office.

• Ministry of Tourism licence No. 1538
• Official IATA member
• Operating from Cairo since 2007

View all guides by Egypt Day Trips Team