Why the
Luxor Temple
is special

It is noted for its massiveness, historical importance, and well-preserved soaring columns.

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Top 5
Luxor Temple
attractions

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Top 5 must-sees

Entrance Pylon

Two jumbo Rameses II statues stand in front of this imposing gateway, as does a lofty obelisk.

Courtyards

The Inner and the Rameses II courtyards are enclosed by majestic columns.

Colonnade

This processional path links the two courtyards and is impressively flanked by seven giant columns on either side.

Hyperstyle

32 towering, tightly spaced columns create an awesome scene.

Inner Sanctum

Small shrines and chapels are packed into the far end of Luxor Temple.

Also see the Avenue of the Sphinxes just outside Luxor Temple. It's dramatically lined with sphinx statues and once reached Karnak Temple.

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More Luxor Temple
tips & insights

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History  in brief

In the 14th century BC, mighty Amenhotep III built a new Luxor Temple over an existing religious structure.

Additions were subsequently made by others, including Alexander the Great.

But it was Rameses II in the 13th century BC who commissioned the greatest changes: The Entrance Pylon and his courtyard.

Eventually Father Time buried the temple and town folk constructed buildings over the hidden wonder.  Archaeological excavations began in the early 19th century.

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Pointers

Explore this wonder both during the day and at night (when the ruins and reliefs are floodlit).

Come in early morning or late afternoon to mitigate the crowd factor and (in summer) the scorching sun.

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Photo by Blalonde

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