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Colossi of Memnon, near Luxor, Egypt
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Colossi of Memnon, near Luxor, Egypt
Colossi of Memnon, two large stone statues of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III, Theban Necropolis near Luxor, Egypt. Date: 1922
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Media ID 23085448
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Amenhotep Arab Arabs Colossi Memnon Pharaoh Sepia Statues Today 1922
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This photograph, taken in 1922, showcases the awe-inspiring Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, located in the Theban Necropolis near Luxor, Egypt. The Colossi, standing tall and proud against the arid backdrop of the eastern desert, have been a source of fascination and wonder for people from all corners of the world for thousands of years. The Colossi, carved from sandstone and standing an impressive 18 meters high, were originally part of a larger memorial temple complex dedicated to Amenhotep III and his queen, Tiy. The statues depict the Pharaoh seated on his throne, with one hand resting on his knee and the other extended in a gesture of protection or blessing. The Colossi have a rich and storied history. They were first recorded by the Greek historian Ctesias in the 4th century BC, who described them as having the ability to emit a sound at sunrise, which was believed to be the voice of the god Memnon. This legend continued to be popular throughout the ancient world, and the Colossi were a popular destination for travelers and pilgrims. In the early 20th century, the Colossi were rediscovered by European explorers and archaeologists, who began to study and document their history and significance. This photograph, taken in the 1920s, captures the Colossi as they were at that time, before extensive restoration work was carried out. Today, the Colossi of Memnon are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination. They continue to be a symbol of Egypt's rich cultural heritage and a reminder of the enduring power of human creativity and ingenuity. The sepia tones of this photograph add to the timeless quality of the image, transporting us back to a bygone era and inviting us to contemplate the mysteries of the past.
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