The Luxor Temple
The Southern Sanctuary of Amun
The Luxor Temple is a massive Egyptian temple located on the eastern bank of the Nile River in the city of Luxor, Egypt. Founded in 1400 BC and known as the ipet resyt in Egyptian language – meaning the southern sanctuary, it is built to honor the triad gods of Amun, Chons and Mut.
123EgyptTours.com presents you tours that are dedicated to let you experience the majesty of Egypt’s ancient architecture.
History and Details of the Luxor Temple
The Luxor temple was built by Amenophis III, on former foundations including structures built by the Queen Hatshepsut. This temple is to honor and worship the Theban Triad gods of Amun, Chons and Mut. In the ancient days, these gods are believed to be the caretakers of the ancient city of Thebes, a former Egyptian capital.
The earliest parts of the temple is still visible today, these are the barque chapels right just behind where the first pylon stands. These chapels was built during the reign of Queen Hatshepsut.
The main part which is the Colonnades are then built by Amenophis III, which includes 14 colums with papyrus shaped capitals standing 18 meters tall and some 10 meters in circumference. The colonnade is then enclosed on both sides with designs showing the Festival of Opet.
You can also get a chance to visit the courtyards, the majestic hypostyle hall which includes 32 gigantic columns. Later on you will be lead to a series of four antechambers and ancillary room, as well as a Sanctuary of the Sacred Barque, located in the innermost room which was rebuilt by Alexander the Great.
Additionally you will also get a chance to see the courtyard of Ramses II. It is surrounded by a peristyle of 74 papyrus columns and arranged in a double row, adorned with 16 statues of the pharaoh. There is also a three-part chapel on the northern side which is also dedicated to the Theban triad.
Another place of interest are the two Obelisk also built during the reign of Ramses II. You will find interesting details about these amazing obelisks as you go around the Luxor Temple.
Festivals during the Ancient Luxor
There are many festivals, rituals and ceremonies that took place in the Luxor Temple. All of these festivals is a testament to the ancient’s adoration to the gods. During the Festival of Opet, the celebration of the rebirth of the pharaoh, son of Amun is being celebrated.
123EgyptTours.com offer daily tours to the Luxor temple along the east bank of the Nile River in Luxor, check our complete list of itineraries and start your adventure today.
