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| عدسة ابراهيم بهزاد |
The Colossi of Memnon, two monumental statues located west of the modern city of Luxor, are enduring symbols of Egypt's ancient grandeur. These statues represent Amenhotep III (1386-1353 BCE) of the 18th Dynasty of Egypt, seated on a throne ornamented with intricate engravings. The figures rise 60 ft (18 meters) high and weigh 720 tons each, both carved from single blocks of sandstone.
The statues are positioned to face east, looking toward the Nile River, a strategic placement that has allowed them to witness the passage of time and the rise and fall of civilizations. The base of the works depict his mother Mutemwiya and wife Tiye on the front and Hapy, the god of the Nile, on the sides, symbolizing the king's divine and royal lineage.
The Colossi of Memnon were not just architectural marvels, but also cultural symbols. Amenhotep III was known for his adherence to tradition and cultural values, refusing requests to send his daughters as wives to foreign rulers, claiming that no daughter of Egypt had ever been sent to a foreign land and would not be sent under his reign.
Over time, the statues gained a reputation for their oracular powers, becoming known as the "Vocal Memnon". The luck that hearing the statues was reputed to bring attracted a constant stream of visitors, including several Roman emperors. The last recorded reliable mention of the sound dates back to the 7th century.
Today, the figures are weathered and unrecognizable, but they continue to stand as a testament to Egypt's ancient history and cultural heritage. Despite the centuries, the Colossi of Memnon remain a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who come to marvel at these remnants of Egypt's past.
