Luxor : City with History of Pharaohs and Ancient Kingdoms

Luxor is an abode of tombs and baroque temples, an ancient city that has attracted millions of traveler across the world. The city is extremely rich in its ancient culture and heritage with mummy museum along with artifacts. It was the site of ancient Thebes along the banks of Nile River. The city is gorgeously hidden behind the rocky valley of the west bank and the ancient magnificence is to leave in complete awe. Under the lap of the grandeur and amazing elegance, Luxor is a wonderland that will leave you asking for more. Here are top 10 places to visit in Luxor:

1. Temple of Karnak

The temple of Karnak is one of the most stunning architecture that leaves you in awe with its exquisite craftsmanship. It is one of the most sacred places in ancient Egypt and is significant as it marked the beginning of current day Luxor. The construction of the temple begun in the 16th century and undoubtedly gives a rich knowledge about the history. The Temple of Amon is the largest worship place with the Great Hypostyle Hall and has many colossal columns. The temple is further adorned by statues of rulers and Gods.

2. Valley of the Kings

It is a medieval place of historical importance parched on the rocky terrains that was used as resting place for kings from the 18th, 19th and 20th dynasties. The place boasts of many vivid paintings and has many primitive beliefs associated with it. It is believed that dead man is accompanied by sun God as they sail along the night on a boat. There are many tombs adorned with marvelous inscriptions. There are around 63 tombs in the valley and it is well maintained to preserve the ancient paintings.

3. Medinat Habu

It is the memorial of Ramses III which is situated behind the sleepy village of Kom Lolah and overlooks the Theban Mountains. It is located along the West Bank. It is a gorgeous temple that has absolutely beautiful interiors. The entire campus of the temple consists of a small older temple that was built by the 18th century Dynasty along with the Temple of Ramses III. There is also a Royal Palace. It has a two-story Syrian Gate along with a chapel and is the right place to soak into the history with less tourism.

4. Deir el-Bahri

It is a temple dedicated to King Hatshepshut who is the only female Pharaoh to rule Egypt. The stunning historical temple is located at the foot of a cliff. The magnificent temple is almost white that is highlighted strongly against the golden brown rocks behind it. The temple dates back to around 1400 BC and is a mix of medieval and modern architecture. It is one of the largest mortuary monuments and it features gorgeous wall inscriptions and hieroglyphics, brilliantly done with lot of colors.

5. Luxor Museum

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Luxor is a city embedded in rich history and what best way to explore the history than visiting the Luxor Museum. The museum is known for display of some of the most exquisite antiques of Egypt, mostly from the temples. It tells you the story of ancient Thebes and how it evolved. The substantial possession of the museum is two Royal Mummies of Ahmose I and possibly of Ramses I. It includes sculptures of Amenhotep III who built many temples. It is the best place to see the history of Luxor and land of Pharaohs.

6. Luxor Temple

The Luxor Temple is an iconic heritage site of Luxor and brings to you the stories of changing of face of Egypt. It was built by Amenophis III and is also known as Southern Harem of Amun as it was dedicated to Amun. The yellow light illuminated temple shines at night in its glory as it boldly reflects the ruins and the statues. The temple premise has a Hypostyle Hall, open Peristyle court along with chapels of the deities. There has been lot of changes made to the temple by Pharaohs including Amenophis IV, Tutankhamun, Seti I and Ramses II.

7. Tombs of the Nobles

It is actually less tourist comparatively and gives you the glimpses of much preserved tombs and historic paintings. The site is popular for 400 tombs of various significant individuals mostly from the 6th Dynasty to the Ptolemaic Era. The popular tombs out here are the Tomb of Khonsu, Tomb of Benia, Tomb of Menna and Tomb of Nakht. Here only some parts of the area is accessible. The best is the Tomb of Nakht in memory of official priest of Amun in the 18th century.

8. Colossi of Memnon

The giant statues are located on the banks of the Nile River and are known for its massive and exquisite craftsmanship. The statues are carved and designed on yellow brown sandstone and are on a hill above Edfu. The statues represent Amenhotep III as seated on a cube shaped throne. There are two colossal statues. Now only little remains of once what used to be gigantic Amenhotep’s memorial temple is left after the attack placed by the Romanians.

9. Ramesseum

The temple was built by Ramses II and was dedicated to Amun and is located very close to Deir el-Bahri. Currently it is in ruins as half of it is damaged but it still manages to attract impressive number of tourists. It was known as Tomb of Ozymandias during the Roman Imperial Period. It has a North and South Tower with inscription related to relief of Ramses II. There are many portrayals of Ramses dashing against Hitties in his chariot and many other historical facts.

10. Valley of the Queens

It is a historical site from the 19th and 20th dynasties and consist total of 80 tombs. Most of the tombs are unfinished and do not have any ornate identity and look similar to rocks. Only some tombs are adorned with some inscriptions and paintings. It is located in the same mountains as Valley of the Kings. The Tomb of Queen Nefertari is the most popular one here but it is closed for tourist for preservation purpose. The Tomb of Prince Amen-her-Khopshef is preserved with colorful wall paintings along with Tomb of Titi.

◎ Closing

Luxor is a pure bliss for those who crave for history and culture. The historical city has so much to offer with number of preserved archaeological sites and museums. The mummies, Pharaohs, colossal statues and grand museums that we read about in the books are what we see for real.