COLOSSI OF MEMNON

The Colossi of Memnon are massive stone statues located on the west bank of the Nile River near Luxor, Egypt. These colossal statues, each standing at about 18 meters tall and weighing approximately 720 tonnes, depict Pharaoh Amenhotep III of the 18th Dynasty.

Originally, they were part of the entrance to Amenhotep's mortuary temple, symbolizing his divine power and authority. Carved from single blocks of sandstone, the statues are impressive examples of ancient Egyptian artistry and engineering. Over time, the statues became famous for a mysterious phenomenon where one of them emitted a singing or humming sound at dawn due to temperature changes, believed by ancient Egyptians to be the voice of Memnon, a legendary hero. Today, the Colossi of Memnon are iconic symbols of ancient Egypt's grandeur and attract visitors from around the world, offering a glimpse into the rich history and artistry of the pharaonic era.