Our ship docked at Luxor, on the east bank of the Nile. We reluctantly left the ship and checked into a riverside hotel for the next two nights. This hotel had a really nice pool area which was perfect for relaxing on hot Egyptian afternoons!
The Luxor region is probably the most archeologically rich in the world. It contains mind blowing temple complexes like Luxor, Hatshepsut and Karnak, plus the Valley of the Kings. Add the palm treed Nile to the mix and you have a recipe for an unforgettable experience!
The city is one of the oldest in the world. In ancient times, it was known as Thebes.
Our guide Ahmed encouraged us to get some pool time in during the hottest part of the day and then head to Luxor temple for the sunset. WOW was this a perfect choice. Luxor is said to be a location where pharaohs were crowned. Alexander the Great said he was crowned here. A number of them contributed to its construction. Amenhotep III, Ramses II, Horemheb, Queen Hatshepsut, and Tutankhamen all are represented.
We were struck with something awesome before we entered the temple. There is a 2.7km long “Avenue of the Sphinxes” with literally hundreds of sphinxes connecting Luxor Temple to Karnak Temple!
We turned around to face the temple. Also, walking along the outside, you can glimpse most of it.
Once inside, there are a number of chapels dedicated to various gods and goddesses.
There are beautiful columns, which, in the late afternoon, were eye catching!
The blue Saharan sky, puffy clouds, the amber glow of the sunset. The columns. And these statues of Ramses II were, well. You decide!
The place is SO old. Of course it was used by the Egyptians. But then Romans. Then Christians. And now, Muslims. Here is some evidence of Christianity.
Once the sun set, the most incredible images came out. I just love love love the facade with the lights!
From here we could walk back to the hotel. Next morning, in the cooler temperatures, we’d head to Queen Hatshepsut’s Temple, and the Valley of the Kings.
Cabin Fever Chronicles - Getting Outdoors with Rod 