Friday, September 4, 2009

Holidays In Luxor - Discover Egyptian Culture

By Bryan Daley

The name Egypt conjures up pictures of Pharaohs and temple. Nowhere were these more common than in Luxor. The modern Luxor is built beside the Nile where the ancient city of Thebes existed. Today many tourists coming to Egypt plan holidays in Luxor as it is a good base for many nearby attractions. The level of accommodation ranges from five stars to much more budget options. Places of note to visit around Luxor include

The Amun Temple which is also equally well known as the Karnak temple as it is located in the district of Karnak. The precinct has a number of large temples but the most important of these is the temple to the god Amun Ra. Amun Ra was a principle deity in Egyptian religion.

The Valley of the Kings is located on the other side of the Nile from Luxor. It was here that the Kings were entombed. The most famous of the Kings here was Tutankhamen. In the valley are tombs of at least 63 kings and excavation continue. Of these only 18 are open to visit and not all 18 are open at any one time. The Valley of the Queens is where the Royal queens and children were laid to rest. For many these valleys are the prime destination when taking holidays in Luxor.

The Open Air museum, located beside the Amun Temple complex is sometimes overlooked by visitors. It has a well preserved white Chapel and a strong collection of statues.

The museum of Mummification has examples of human and animal mummies as well as displays of techniques and tools.

The Luxor Temple is a place that is perhaps visited at dusk or into the evening. Here lighting shows off the colonnades and carvings. There is the remains of an avenue of sphinx sculptures that once was three kilometres long and joined the Luxor temple with the temple of Amun Ra.

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