Colossi of Memnon

　　The Colossi of Memnon are two towering rock statues located in the open fields between the west bank of the Nile and the Valley of the Kings. These two colossal figures, resembling twin brothers, sit within the Theban Necropolis in modern-day Luxor on the banks of the Nile. Standing at 18 meters tall and weighing 700 tons, they are among Egypt’s largest statues and key local attractions.

　　Carved from quartzite sandstone, the statues depict Amenhotep III seated with his hands resting calmly on his knees and his gaze fixed toward the Nile in the east. However, some claim these are statues of Memnon, a figure from Greek mythology said to be the son of Ethiopian King Tithonus and the dawn goddess Eos. In the Trojan War, Memnon led forces to defend Troy. After killing Antilochus in battle, he was slain by Achilles in revenge for the death of his comrade. Upon Memnon’s death, Zeus, moved by Eos’s tears, granted him immortality.

　　In 27 BCE, a powerful earthquake struck the area where the Colossi stand, causing the upper parts of the statues to collapse and deep cracks to appear in their lower sections. Strangely, after the cracks formed, the statues were said to emit sounds resembling singing—heard an hour or two before sunrise. Following restoration efforts, this mysterious “song” ceased.

　　Colossi of Memnon Reason to visit: One of Egypt’s largest stone sculptures Continent: Africa Country/Region: Egypt Province/State: Aswan Governorate City: Luxor