#Monument Valley III

[horizon-penblade]

ok but the totem/cubey friend in monument valley 3 growing into a boat vs the one in monument valley 1 getting lost under the waves... ough

[thebeautyofgaming]

It's an app...by Netflix?

[jiff01]

[billiambabble]

Seriously losing my cool in Monument Valley 3. :D

[panzertron]

Monument Valley 3 — Release Date Trailer | gamescom 2024

[inky-bun]

So Monument Valley III came out recently and it brought back my hyperfixation for the game series. So naturally I had to combine it with my current hyperfixation

I know these games have pretty much nothing in common, but they both have a princess and crow-like entities and that’s good enough for me

[monumentvalleyaesthetic]

Monument Valley 1 - Titles and Geometries (II, III and IV)

[antiquitiesandlabyrinths]

Ramses I

Ramses the I is usually somewhat overlooked, partially due to being overshadowed by his eventual successors and namesakes, Ramses II and Ramses III, the former of which is considered to be 'Ramses the Great', and both of which achieved great things in the realm of battle and buildings. Also unfortunate for Ramses I is the length of his reign, which while disputed, is considered to have been relatively short.

Menpehtyre Ramses, born of Seti, started and was the first Pharaoh of the 19th dynasty of Egypt, and the dates of his reign are generally considered to be around 1292–1290 BC or 1295–1294 BC. However, he was born as a common man, and his father, Seti, was a military commander. Originally, Ramses I's name was Pa-ra-messu, and he eventually grew to succeed his father's rank in the military. Due to this, he became a close confidant with the Pharaoh of the time, the Pharaoh Horemheb.

You may know Horemheb as being one of the main successors of the throne after Tutankhamun's death which, to my knowledge, is wrapped in a little bit of a mystery, but was likely due to genetic malformations from his many diseases. Ay and Horemheb, the Grand Vizier and the General of Armies (respectively), held the main power of the country while Tutankhamun was Pharaoh. This was a time of turmoil––the country was just recovering from the reign of the heretic Akhenaten, who had banned religious worship of any God but the Aten, and essentially attempted to enforce monotheism upon a culture that had been polytheistic for thousands of years previously. Akhenaten had also severely neglected Egypt's relationship with foreign powers. Obviously, people weren't very happy with Akhenaten, and I think it likely they were not fond of Akhenaten's son, Tutankhamun, either. But Tutankhamun, with the help of his advisors and of Ay and Horemheb, reversed many of his heretic father's commands and laws. But Tutankhamun still sailed to the west at the age of 19. He had two baby girls, but neither of them survived past infancy. He had no successors, so Ay took the throne, and then Horemheb.

Horemheb enacted many more reformations to remove Akhenaten's efforts to change Egypt. He tore down the statues of Akhenaten and his monuments, reusing the stone in monuments and temples of his own. He also reused the monuments built for Ay and Tutankhamun, though this was a common practice in Egypt. But Horemheb had no surviving sons, so when it came time for Horemheb to pass on and appoint a new Pharaoh, his Grand Vizier took his place; Paramessu, who would take the name Ramesses I, meaning "Ra has fashioned Him". Ramses I was nearly 50 years old when he ascended to the throne. It was a remarkable age to become Pharaoh, as at this time, he would've already been considered elderly.

What little he did during his life was later completed by his son and successor, Seti I. He himself accomplished mainly one thing, which was to send additions to the garrison at Aswan, the border between Egypt and Nubia; though he also led a military expedition into west Asia and reopened turquoise mines in the Sinai. But the most remarkable things are the ones he didn't complete himself, such as additions to the Karnak temple complex in east Thebes, known as Waset at the time. He ordered to be carved great reliefs into the second pylon of the Karnak temple, which is a massive gateway that one sees relatively soon upon entering the complex. In Abydos, he began construction of a chapel and a temple, but it would have to be completed by his son, as Menpehtyre Ramses died in either the year of 1290 or 1294. His reign was so short that he had very little time to schedule or complete any great monuments, and even his tomb was rushed to be completed, and he was hastily buried in the Valley of the Kings. This rush unfortunately led to a great deal of errors being made in the paintings upon his sarcophagus. Later, however, Ramses I's son, Seti I, finished the chapel in honor of his father, with beautiful carvings and reliefs at Abydos.

His tomb was robbed thoroughly. By the time archaeologists got to it, all that remained were two six-foot tall (1.8 meters) wooden guardian statues who once had gold-foil skin, statuettes of Gods from the underworld, and the massive granite coffin which no longer carried its' owner. Menpehtyre Ramses had been taken to the Royal Cache, located above Hatshepsut's mortuary temple to the southeast. It was the tomb of the pharaoh Amenhotep II, but repurposed to be a protective place for the mummies of many Pharaohs and Queens, as most of the tombs of the Valley of the Kings had become victims of graverobbers. These protective actions were taken by the High Priest of Amun, Pinedjem II, in the 21st Dynasty.

Unfortunately this did not stop the usurping of Ramses I's body. He was stolen by the Abu-Rassul family of grave-robbers and sold by a Turkish vice-consular agent named Mustapha Aga Ayat in Luxor to a man named Dr. James Douglas. Douglas brought Ramses I to the US around the year of 1860, where he was placed in a museum in Niagara Falls with little information known about him. All that was speculated was that he was 'a Prince of Egypt'. Ownership of the museum, and thus of Ramses I, was passed through several hands, but his importance was only recognized with the help of the Canadian Egyptologist Gayle Gibson. Fortunately, in the year 2003, October 24, Menpehtyre Ramses was returned to his homeland of Egypt, and is now resting in the Mummification Museum in Luxor, Upper Egypt.

[fromthedust]

Hatshepsut's Mortuary Temple Complex, situated across the river from the modern city of Luxor. The temple is three stories tall, connected by ramps and terraces. In its day, it contained shrines, chapels, and the sanctuary of Amun-re. These were all woven together with carved reliefs, reflecting pools, and elaborate gardens of exotic plants and trees. Her temple rose from beside the River Nile with a long ramp ascending from a courtyard of trees and small pools to a terrace. Some of these trees were brought from Punt and are the first known successful transplants of trees from one nation to another in history. The remains of these trees, fossilized tree stumps, can still be seen in the courtyard of the temple in the present day.

Symbolism abounds in Hatshepsut’s mortuary temple; symbols that suggest Hatshepsut had a divine right to rule. The temple is not only home to the mortuary shrine dedicated to Hatshepsut, but also includes sanctuaries dedicated to the gods Anubis, Hathor, a local incarnation of Amun, Re, and Hatshepsut’s father Thutmosis I. Hatshepsut honored the god Amun by placing his shrine in the central position of the temple rather than her own, as was normal for pharaohs. By including a shrine to the god Hathor, Hatshepsut symbolically revitalized the tradition of monumental architecture that began in the pyramid building era, which typically included shrines honoring Hathor.

The temple of Hatshepsut was considered to be a wonder of the ancient world by architects. Located at the bottom of limestone cliffs, the temple had courtyards and terraced colonnades that seems to be going up the side of the mountain. The lower levels of the temple had gardens with fragrant trees and pools. The temple had huge images of Hatshepsut with over 100 large statues of Pharaoh Hatshepsut as a sphinx, guarding the processional way. Hatshepsut's burial chamber (tomb KV20) was carved out of the cliffs which form the back of the building.

Hatshepsut's temple was so admired by the pharaohs who came after her that they increasingly chose to be buried nearby and this necropolis came to eventually be known as the Valley of the Kings.

The building of the temple was probably overseen by Senenmut, her trusted advisor who some researchers speculate may have also been her lover.

Queen Hatshepsut (1507-1458) was the longest reigning female Pharaoh in Egyptian history, ruling from 1473-1458 BCE. Hatshepsut was daughter of Ahmose, named from her grandfather Pharaoh Ahmose I, who ruled before Thutmosis I and founded Egypt’s eighteenth dynasty. Hatshepsut’s daughters were more closely related to the royal dynasty than Thutmosis III or his son and heir.

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

Nick Anderson

* * * * *

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

January 6, 2024

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

JAN 7, 2024

Today, three years to the day after the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol to prevent the counting of the electoral ballots that would make Democrat Joe Biden president, officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation arrested three fugitives wanted in connection with that attack. 

Siblings Jonathan and Olivia Pollock, whose family owns Rapture Guns and Knives, described on its Facebook page as a “christian owned Gun and Knife store” in Lakeland, Florida, and Joseph Hutchinson III, who once worked there, are suspected of some of the worst violence of January 6. The FBI had offered a $30,000 reward for “Jonny” Pollock, while the other two had been arrested but removed their ankle bracelets in March 2023 and fled. 

Family members of the fugitives and of other Lakeland residents arrested for their involvement in the January 6 attack on the Capitol insist their relatives are innocent, framed by a government eager to undermine their way of life. The Pollock family has gone so far as to erect a monument “in honor of the ones who lost their lives on January 6, 2021.” 

But it does not honor the law enforcement officers who were killed or injured. It honors the insurrectionists: Ashli Babbitt, shot by a law enforcement officer as she tried to break into the House Chamber through a smashed window (her family today sued the government for $30 million for wrongful death), and three others, one who died of a stroke; one of a heart attack, and one of an amphetamine overdose. 

The monument in Lakeland, Florida, is a stark contrast to the one President Biden visited yesterday in Pennsylvania. Valley Forge National Park is the site of the six-month winter encampment of the Continental Army in the hard winter of 1777–1778. After the British army captured the city of Philadelphia in September 1777, General George Washington settled 12,000 people of his army about 18 miles to the northwest. 

There the army almost fell apart. Supply chains were broken as the British captured food or it spoiled in transit to the soldiers, and wartime inflation meant the Continental Congress did not appropriate enough money for food and clothing. Hunger and disease stalked the camp, but even worse was the lack of clothing. More than 1,000 soldiers died, and about eight or ten deserted every day. Washington warned the president of the Continental Congress that the men were close to mutiny. 

Even if they didn’t quit, they weren’t very well organized for an army charged with resisting one of the greatest military forces on the globe. The different units had been trained with different field manuals, making it hard to coordinate movements, and a group of army officers were working with congressmen to replace Washington, complaining about how he was prosecuting the war.  

By February 1778, though, things were falling into place. A delegation from the Continental Congress had visited Valley Forge and understood that the lack of supplies made the army, and thus the country, truly vulnerable, and they set out to reform the supply department. Then a newly arrived Prussian officer, Baron Friedrich von Steuben, drilled the soldiers into unity and better morale. And then, in May, the soldiers learned that France had signed a treaty with the American states in February, lending money, matériel, and men to the cause of American independence. When the soldiers broke camp in June, they marched out ready to take on the British at the Battle of Monmouth, where their new training paid off as they held their own against the British soldiers.

The January 6 insurrectionists were fond of claiming they were echoing these American revolutionaries who created the new nation in the 1770s. The right-wing Proud Boys’ strategic plan for taking over buildings in the Capitol complex on January 6 was titled: “1776 Returns,” and even more famously, newly elected representative Lauren Boebert (R-CO) wrote on January 5, 2021: “Remember these next 48 hours. These are some of the most important days in American history.” On January 6, she wrote: “Today is 1776.”

Trump has repeatedly called those January 6 insurrectionists “patriots.” 

Biden yesterday called Trump out for “trying to steal history the same way he tried to steal the election.”  

Indeed. The insurrectionists at the Capitol were not patriots. They were trying to overthrow the government in order to take away the right at the center of American democracy: our right to determine our own destiny. Commemorating them as heroes is the 21st century’s version of erecting Confederate statues.

The January 6th insurrectionists were nothing like the community at Valley Forge, made up of people who had offered up their lives to support a government pledged, however imperfectly in that era, to expanding that right. When faced with hunger, disease, and discord, that community—which was made up not just of a remarkably diverse set of soldiers from all 13 colonies, including Black and Indigenous men, but also of their families and the workers, enslaved and free, who came with them—worked together to build a force that could establish a nation based in the idea of freedom.  

The people at the Capitol on January 6 who followed in the footsteps of those who were living in the Valley Forge encampment 246 years ago were not the rioters. They were the people who defended our right to live under a government in which we have a say: those like the staffers who delayed their evacuation of the Capitol to save the endangered electoral ballots, and like U.S. Capitol Police officers Eugene Goodman, Harry Dunn, Caroline Edwards, and Aquilino Gonell and Metropolitan Police officer Michael Fanone, along with the more than 140 officers injured that day. 

Fanone, whom rioters beat and tasered, giving him a traumatic brain injury and a heart attack, yesterday told Emily Ngo, Jeff Coltin, and Nick Reisman of Politico: “I think it’s important that every institution in this country, every American, take the responsibility of upholding democracy seriously. And everyone needs to be doing everything that they can to ensure that a.) Donald Trump does not succeed and b.) the MAGA movement is extinguished.”

Unlike the violence of the January 6th insurrectionists, the experience of the people at Valley Forge is etched deep into our national identity as a symbol of the sacrifice and struggle Americans have made to preserve and renew democracy. It is so central to who we are that we have commemorated it in myths and monuments and have projected into the future that its meaning will always remain at the heart of America. According to The Star Trek Encyclopedia, the Federation Excelsior-class starship USS Valley Forge will still be fighting in the 24th century… against the Dominion empire.

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

[kirk-goes-to-gallifrey]

Why is monument valley III making me cry in the bathroom on a monday night??

[crushcandles]

You've posted some lovely recs over the last few months. Do you have any kind of music recs or genres that you like listening to and share some favorites?

rec: crushcandles' taste in music

Funny how this works: I'm quite comfortable talking about things I like or don't like many manner of media, film, TV, fiction, but talking about the music I like really riles my vulnerability up, which is very novel and tender.

Worth noting, I'm mostly stuck in 2006 for music. I do almost nothing to keep up with current music, aside from checking in periodically on a handful of specific artists. Everything else new is just random chance that it finds me or the good work of a reccer.

Music is really seasonal to me, so for these spring churning into summer days, it's been a mix of Joanna Newsom's Ys, Sufjan Steven's Javelin, the Monument Valley 2 soundtrack, and Miike Snow's iii. As summer settles in, Orville Peck's Bronco, Animal Collective's Merriweather Post Pavilion and We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank by Modest Mouse will take over the rotation.  

To speak of new-to-me music, the best discovery I've made in the last few years, is how, if you search on youtube any person, place, thing, scenario, or emotion + lofi, you will get a video or playlist, and it might just be fantastic. From there you can go down the rabbit hole of the algorithm and find all kinds of cool things. This response is so long, but I'd be happy to rec some music from youtube I've found that I love if anyone is interested.

[lahilden]

Chateau de Montresor

Château de Montrésor is located in the village of Montrésor in the department of Indre-et-Loire, France. Built for defense in the 11th century by Foulques Nerra, the medieval castle is set on a rocky promontory overlooking the Indrois Valley. In the 12th century, the castle fell into the hands of King Henry II of England, and the entrance towers were built, along with a north curtain wall. In 1188, King Philip Augustus of France retook the castle from the English. The Castle was demolished in 1203 and rebuilt in 1393 for Jean Iv de Bueil, who added an enclosure wall, the gatehouse, and existing outbuildings. Due to the royal court spending time at the castle during the 15th century, Imbert de Batarnay purchased the castle and built a residence inside the feudal enclosure, but only the main wing remains. The castle has a long history with different leading families in residence, but its prominence began to decline during The French Revolution. The castle chapel and west wing were demolished by the Gonsan family in 1845 and then restored in 1849 by Count Xavier Branicki. He was a wealthy Polish immigrant exiled from his country and a friend of Napoleon III. The Branicki family descendants still own the estate. The structure combines vestiges from the 11th century fortress and the Renaissance castle built in the 15th century. The fortress has a double enclosure wall surrounding the keep. The keep has corner towers, a 12th century gate tower, and a parapet. The interior boasts an 1855 spiral staircase, a grand salon with a piano where Chopin composed a waltz, a Renaissance-designed dining room, an Italian boudoir, a collection of French and English 19th century firearms, 16th – 19th century weapons, and artworks from the Renaissance and Middle Ages. In 1996, the French Ministry of Culture listed the castle as a historical monument. Château de Montrésor is open to the public for tours.

[ozzyeelz]

Current (and past) hyperfixation list!!

This is just a little list for those on my page to know (also for me to keep track of my interests, cuz I be forgetting), and I might post from any of these fandoms lol

Undertale

Yakuza (kiwami and 0)

Team fortress 2

Mandela catalog

Monument Mythos

Mystery flesh pit national park

Minecraft

Jojo’s bizarre adventure

Stardew valley

Lupin III

Re-animator

The backrooms

The Magnus archives

Fight club

Our flag means death

What we do in the shadows

Evil Dead

D&D

Community

Metal gear solid

Marine biology

Paleontology

Supernatural

Into the spiderverse

(More to be added)

welcome to the madness!💚

[hiroshitanaka]

Luxor: Gateway to Egypt’s Ancient Wonders

Luxor, often referred to as the jewel of Upper Egypt, offers a glimpse into the splendour of ancient Egyptian civilization. As one of the most captivating destinations in Egypt, Luxor boasts a wealth of historical treasures. Many visitors choose to explore its remarkable sites as part of a Nile river cruise, making it a must-see on any Egyptian itinerary.

Let's look into what Luxar has in store for us….

Karnak Temple

Karnak Temple, a colossal complex of temples and shrines located in Luxor, Egypt, stands as a testament to the grandeur and religious significance of ancient Egyptian civilization. This monumental site, known as "Ipet-isu" (The Most Selected of Places) by the Egyptians, has been a place of worship and pilgrimage for over 2,000 years.

A History of Devotion:

The construction of Karnak Temple began during the Middle Kingdom and continued well into the Ptolemaic period. The complex is primarily dedicated to the Theban Triad: Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. However, it also houses temples and shrines for other deities such as Osiris, Montu, Ptah, and Isis.

Key Features of Karnak Temple:

Hypostyle Hall: This awe-inspiring hall is one of the largest in the world, featuring towering columns that create a breathtaking atmosphere.

Avenue of Sphinxes: A long, processional way lined with sphinx statues leads to the entrance of the temple.

Sacred Lake: This artificial lake was used for religious rituals and ceremonies.

Pylons: Massive stone gateways adorned with reliefs and hieroglyphs mark the entrances to the temple complex.

Sound and Light Shows: Immerse yourself in the history of Karnak through captivating evening performances that combine storytelling, music, and lighting effects.

Luxor Temple

Luxor Temple, a magnificent structure situated on the east bank of the Nile River, is a must-visit destination for travellers exploring ancient Egypt. Obtaining an Egypt Tourist Visa is the first step toward exploring Egypt's marvels. This vital document opens the door to ancient pyramids, beautiful temples, and bustling bazaars. This iconic temple, also known as the "Southern Sanctuary," was built during the New Kingdom era to honour the Theban Triad.

A History of Devotion:

Construction of Luxor Temple began under the reign of Amenhotep III (18th Dynasty) around 1400 BC. The temple was later expanded and completed by Tutankhamun, further solidifying its significance as a place of worship. The temple served as the focal point for the annual Opet Festival, a grand celebration honouring the gods of the Theban Triad.

Key Features of Luxor Temple:

Ramses II Edifice: This impressive structure showcases the architectural prowess and artistic achievements of the New Kingdom.

Obelisk: Admire the towering obelisk, adorned with intricate carvings depicting the victories of Ramses II.

Statues: Discover a collection of statues, including those of pharaohs and gods, scattered throughout the temple complex.

Sound and Light Shows: Immerse yourself in the history and mythology of Luxor Temple through captivating evening performances

Valley of the Kings

Valley of the Kings, a secluded valley nestled on the west bank of the Nile River, is a renowned archaeological site that has captivated visitors for centuries. This hidden necropolis served as the final resting place for many pharaohs and members of the royal court during the New Kingdom.

A Royal Cemetery:

For over 500 years, the Valley of the Kings was the preferred burial ground for Egyptian rulers. The valley offers a glimpse into the beliefs and practices surrounding death and the afterlife in ancient Egypt. With approximately 63 known tombs, each adorned with intricate carvings and hieroglyphs, the valley provides a unique opportunity to explore the lives and legacies of powerful pharaohs.

Famous Tombs:

Among the most famous tombs in the Valley of the Kings are those of Ramses II, Amenhotep I, Hatshepsut, Seti I, and the iconic Tutankhamun. These tombs showcase the opulence and sophistication of ancient Egyptian funerary practices.

Hatshepsut Temple

Hatshepsut Temple, also known as Djeser-Djeseru (Holy of Holies), is a remarkable archaeological site located on the west bank of the Nile River. This temple was built during the New Kingdom to honour the goddess Amun and to commemorate the reign of the female pharaoh Hatshepsut.

A Unique Architectural Marvel:

One of the most striking features of Hatshepsut Temple is its three-tiered terrace design. This innovative architecture was inspired by the mortuary temple of Mentuhotep II and reflects the queen's desire to be remembered as a great pharaoh. The temple's commanding position overlooking the Valley of the Kings provides a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.

A Well-Preserved Gem:

Hatshepsut Temple is renowned for its excellent state of preservation. The temple's walls are adorned with intricate carvings, hieroglyphs, and paintings that depict the queen's reign and her religious beliefs. The temple's hypostyle hall, courtyard, and chapels offer a glimpse into the grandeur and sophistication of ancient Egyptian architecture.

Dendera and Abydos Temples, The Hidden Gems of Luxor

Dendera Temple and Abydos Temple are two lesser-known but equally fascinating archaeological sites located near Luxor. These temples offer a glimpse into the religious beliefs and practices of ancient Egypt.

Dendera Temple: A Sanctuary of Hathor

Dendera Temple, dedicated to the goddess Hathor, is renowned for its stunningly preserved decorations and artefacts. Hathor, the goddess of love, joy, and healing, was believed to be associated with the cow and the sky. The temple's hypostyle hall is a masterpiece of ancient Egyptian architecture, featuring a series of columns adorned with intricate carvings.

Abydos Temple: A Gateway to the Underworld

Abydos Temple, dedicated to the god Osiris, was considered a sacred site associated with the afterlife. Osiris, the ruler of the underworld, was believed to be responsible for judging the souls of the deceased. The temple's Osirideum, a series of underground chambers, was thought to be a gateway to the underworld.

Hidden Treasures

Both Dendera and Abydos Temples offer a unique opportunity to explore the hidden treasures of ancient Egypt. Their well-preserved decorations, artefacts, and historical significance make them must-visit destinations for any traveller interested in the rich heritage of this ancient civilization.

Conclusion-

The hidden gems of Egypt reveal a world beyond the famous pyramids. Discover ancient tombs, forgotten temples, and breathtaking oases hidden in the desert. Discover colorful local markets, historic ruins, and the magical underwater environment of the Red Sea. Egypt's lesser-known beauties inspire visitors to explore its rich history, cultural diversity, and magnificent natural beauty.

[egyptonlinetours]

What Is There to Do in Luxor?

Luxor, often referred to as the world’s greatest open-air museum, is a city steeped in history, ancient wonders, and a rich cultural heritage. Situated on the east bank of the Nile River in southern Egypt, Luxor was once the ancient city of Thebes and has been the backdrop for many of Egypt’s most significant monuments and archaeological discoveries. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or someone who simply wants to immerse themselves in the beauty of ancient Egypt, Luxor offers a range of activities that cater to all interests.

Look at the full article: What Is There to Do in Luxor?

1. Visit the Karnak Temple Complex

One of the most iconic sites in Luxor is the Karnak Temple Complex, which was the main place of worship for the Theban Triad of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. This sprawling site is a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient Egyptian architecture and religion. The Hypostyle Hall, with its 134 towering columns, is particularly impressive, and the temple complex is also home to several smaller temples, chapels, and statues that highlight the grandeur of ancient Egypt.

2. Explore the Valley of the Kings

A trip to Luxor would be incomplete without visiting the Valley of the Kings, the final resting place of many pharaohs from the New Kingdom, including the famous tomb of King Tutankhamun. Visitors can explore the intricate tombs carved deep into the mountainside, adorned with stunning murals and hieroglyphs that depict scenes of the pharaohs��� journey to the afterlife. Be sure to visit the tombs of Ramses II, Seti I, and the tomb of Tutankhamun, where you can see the treasures that were found in his tomb.

3. Tour the Luxor Temple

Located in the heart of modern-day Luxor, the Luxor Temple is one of the most beautifully preserved temples in Egypt. Dedicated to the Theban Triad, the temple features grand entrance pylons, massive statues of Ramses II, and a beautifully lit courtyard. The temple is especially captivating when visited at night, when it is illuminated against the backdrop of the desert sky, offering a magical and serene atmosphere.

4. Take a Felucca Ride on the Nile

No visit to Luxor is complete without a peaceful ride on a Felucca, a traditional wooden sailboat. These boats offer a relaxing way to take in the scenery of the Nile, passing by lush green islands, palm trees, and ancient temples. A sunset felucca ride is particularly romantic, providing stunning views of the sun setting over the river and the surrounding landscapes.

5. The Colossi of Memnon

These massive statues, each standing over 18 meters tall, once guarded the entrance to the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III. Although the temple has largely crumbled over time, the Colossi of Memnon remain an awe-inspiring sight. Legend has it that the statues once emitted mysterious sounds at dawn, a phenomenon that has been the subject of fascination for centuries.

6. Visit the Luxor Museum

For a deeper understanding of Luxor’s history, the Luxor Museum is a great place to see artifacts from the surrounding archaeological sites. The museum houses a collection of statues, pottery, and other ancient items that offer insight into the daily life of the ancient Egyptians, as well as the fascinating world of pharaohs and gods.

7. Hatshepsut Temple

One of the most unique and visually striking temples in Egypt is the Temple of Hatshepsut, dedicated to the female pharaoh Hatshepsut. Set against the backdrop of towering cliffs, the temple features a series of terraces connected by ramps, with stunning colonnades and statues lining the approach. The temple is a testament to Hatshepsut’s reign and her ambitious building projects.

8. Hot Air Balloon Ride

For an unforgettable experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over Luxor. Early in the morning, as the sun rises over the Nile and the temples, the hot air balloon offers breathtaking panoramic views of the ancient monuments, the valley, and the lush green landscapes. It’s a peaceful and awe-inspiring way to witness the grandeur of Luxor from above.

9. Shopping and Souks

While Luxor is a city rich in history, it also offers visitors a taste of local life through its bustling markets and souks. The Luxor Souk is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs, from colorful textiles to handmade jewelry and spices. Don’t forget to haggle for a better price — it’s all part of the fun!

10. Luxor Sound and Light Show

For a magical evening experience, the Luxor Sound and Light Show at the Karnak Temple brings the history of the ancient Egyptian pharaohs to life through dramatic lighting and narration. The show tells the story of the temple’s history, and as the lights illuminate the massive stone columns and statues, the atmosphere is truly captivating.

Explore Egypt’s Ancient Wonders with a Guided Tour

For those looking to explore Egypt in-depth, there are several amazing multi-day tours that take you through Luxor and beyond, covering a range of ancient sites across the country:

10 Days Cairo, Aswan, Luxor & Hurghada Overland Tour This comprehensive 10-day tour covers Egypt’s most iconic sites, including the Pyramids of Giza, the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, the temples of Aswan, and a relaxing time at the beaches of Hurghada. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore Cairo, Luxor, and more in depth.

8 Days Cairo, Luxor, Aswan Classic Tours This classic 8-day tour takes you from the pyramids of Cairo to the temples and tombs of Luxor and Aswan, offering an immersive experience of Egypt’s ancient history.

8 Days Cairo to Abu Simbel and Back Overland Explore the wonders of Egypt from Cairo to the majestic Abu Simbel temples, including stops in Luxor and Aswan. This tour offers a deep dive into the heart of Egypt’s historical treasures.

Egypt Tour Packages Browse a range of Egypt tour packages that can be customized to your preferences, whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, a family adventure, or a relaxing getaway.

Egypt Classic Tours Explore Egypt’s timeless classics, from the Pyramids of Giza to the temples of Luxor and the treasures of the Nile. These classic tours are perfect for those who want to experience Egypt’s rich history and stunning landmarks.

Egypt Luxury Tours Indulge in Egypt’s finest offerings with luxury tours that include 5-star accommodations, private guides, and exclusive experiences. Perfect for travelers looking for a more premium experience.

Grand Egyptian Museum Tour Don’t miss the Grand Egyptian Museum, which houses over 100,000 artifacts, including the complete collection of Tutankhamun’s treasures. This tour will take you on a deep dive into Egypt’s fascinating history.