The Colossi of Memnon (known to locals as el-Colossat, or es-Salamat) are two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III

---

The Colossi of Memnon (known to locals as el-Colossat, or es-Salamat) are two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. For the past 3400 years they have stood in the Theban necropolis, across the River Nile from the modern city of Luxor. The function of the Colossi was to stand guard at the entrance to Amenhotep's memorial temple. The twin statues depict Amenhotep III (fl. 14th century BC) in a seated position, his hands resting on his knees and his gaze turned eastward toward the river and the rising sun. Two shorter figures are carved into the front throne alongside his legs: these are his wife Tiy and mother Mutemwiya. The side panels depict the Nile god Hapi.

---

Size: 5200px × 3387px
Location: The Colossi of Memnon, Luxor, Egypt
Photo credit: © Stuart972-Photography / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

Keywords: amenhotep, colossi, egypt, iii., memnon, pharaoh