Tour Overview
Welcome to the West Bank of Luxor, an ancient wonderland that transports visitors back in time to the glorious days of Egypt’s New Kingdom. This tour offers a captivating journey through some of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. As you step onto this hallowed ground, you’ll be walking in the footsteps of pharaohs, queens, and nobles who shaped one of history’s greatest civilizations.
The West Bank, nestled on the western side of the Nile River, is a treasure trove of ancient Egyptian history. It’s here that the pharaohs of the New Kingdom (1550-1070 BCE) chose to build their eternal resting places, believing the setting sun in the west symbolized the journey to the afterlife.
This tour focuses on three key highlights:
- The Valley of the Kings
- El Deir el-Bahari (The Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut)
- The Colossi of Memnon
Each of these sites offers a unique glimpse into the art, architecture, and beliefs of ancient Egypt. As we explore these wonders, you’ll gain insights into the lives of the pharaohs, the intricate burial practices, and the enduring legacy of this remarkable civilization.
The Valley of the Kings
Our journey begins in the Valley of the Kings, a necropolis that served as the final resting place for Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs for nearly 500 years. Nestled in a secluded valley on the west bank of the Nile, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to over 60 known tombs, each a masterpiece of ancient Egyptian art and engineering.
As we explore these tombs, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and engineering skills of the ancient Egyptians. The precision of the carvings, the vibrancy of the colors, and the complexity of the religious symbolism are truly awe-inspiring.
El Deir el-Bahari
Leaving the Valley of the Kings, we make our way to El Deir el-Bahari, home to one of the most impressive architectural achievements of ancient Egypt – the Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut.
As you approach the temple, you’ll be struck by its grandeur. Set against the backdrop of towering limestone cliffs, the temple rises in a series of terraces, its colonnades seeming to merge with the natural landscape. This harmonious blend of architecture and nature is a testament to the brilliance of the temple’s designer.
The temple is unique in many ways, not least because it was built for a female pharaoh. Hatshepsut, who ruled Egypt for over 20 years during the 18th Dynasty, commissioned this temple as both a mortuary complex and a monument to her reign.
The Colossi of Memnon
Our final stop on this incredible journey through time is the Colossi of Memnon. As you approach, you’ll be awestruck by the sheer size of these twin statues, standing like silent sentinels guarding the entrance to the afterlife.
Description of the Massive Ancient Statues
The Colossi of Memnon are two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, who reigned during the 18th dynasty. Each statue is carved from a single block of quartzite sandstone, standing about 18 meters (60 feet) high. Including the stone platforms they stand on, they reach a towering 21 meters (69 feet).
These colossal statues depict Amenhotep III in a seated position, his hands resting on his knees and his gaze fixed eastward toward the rising sun. The level of detail is remarkable, considering their age and size:
The “Singing” Colossi:
One of the most intriguing aspects of these statues is the phenomenon that gave them their Greek name. In 27 BCE, an earthquake damaged the northern colossus, causing it to produce a musical note at dawn. This sound, described variously as a whistle, moan, or twang, led Greeks to associate the statue with their mythical hero Memnon, whose statue was said to “sing” when touched by the rays of the rising sun. The “singing” stopped in 199 CE when Roman Emperor Septimius Severus, in an attempt to curry favor with the oracle, repaired the statue.
What to Bring and Wear
- Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, often on uneven terrain.
- Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential.
- Water: Bring plenty to stay hydrated in the desert climate.
- Light, Loose Clothing: Respect local customs by covering shoulders and knees.
- Camera: Photography is allowed in most areas (exceptions will be noted by your guide).
Safety Guidelines and Tips
- Stay with Your Guide: The sites are large and it’s easy to get lost.
- Watch Your Step: Many tombs have steep, narrow staircases.
- Respect the Sites: Don’t touch carvings or paintings, as oils from skin can damage them.
- Be Prepared for Heat: The temperature inside tombs can be quite high.
An Unforgettable Journey Through Time
As you leave the West Bank, carrying with you memories and insights from this remarkable day, consider how these ancient Egyptians, despite the vast distance of time, speak to us still through their art, architecture, and beliefs. Their legacy continues to inspire, intrigue, and educate us, bridging the gap between past and present in a truly unique way.
