Two massive statues
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Culture

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All ages

Message from Aurélie Bouti

The Colossi of Memnon are two massive statues located near Luxor in Egypt. The statues stand guard at the entrance to the Mortuary Temple of Amenhotep III, which was once the largest temple in ancient Egypt. Built from blocks of quartzite sandstone which was quarried nearby and transported 420 miles overland, the statues each weigh an estimated 720 tons and measure 60 feet tall. They have fascinated people for centuries with their historical Roman inscriptions, remarkable survival amidst earthquakes, and potential to produce sounds akin to lyre strings breaking. Stories from Greeks, Romans, and modern-day travelers detail this remarkable outdoor museum.

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