LUXOR – THE LIVING MUSEUM OF ANCIENT EGYPT
My adventure with ancient Egypt began in Luxor, the former Thebes – a city that served as capital of the pharaohs’ mighty empire for centuries. The 4-5 hour bus ride from Hurghada transported me back over 3,000 years in time. Luxor is a true treasure trove of monuments where you can feel the spirit of ancient Nile rulers at every turn.
Heart of the ancient world
Our tour started at Karnak Temple complex – the largest religious site of the ancient world. Walking through the Avenue of Sphinxes, I stood awestruck before the gigantic Hypostyle Hall with its 134 columns, the tallest reaching 23 meters! This is where pharaohs paid homage to the god Amun-Ra.

Valley of the Kings and pharaonic secrets
Next came the legendary Valley of the Kings – burial ground of New Kingdom rulers. Walking among rock-cut tombs with colorful paintings preserved for millennia is a breathtaking experience. Did you know archaeologists have discovered 63 tombs here so far, and are still finding more?

Fascinating Luxor facts
- Karnak Temple was constructed over 1,500 years
- The Colossi of Memnon are all that remains of Amenhotep III’s temple
- Hatshepsut was one of few female pharaohs
- Valley of the Kings temperatures can reach 50°C (122°F) in summer
- Luxor is often called “the world’s greatest open-air museum”
The Nile – Egypt’s lifeblood
Between sightseeing, we crossed the Nile by boat. This river gave Egypt its existence – Herodotus called it “the gift of the Nile.” During the cruise, I observed daily Egyptian life – from fishermen in traditional boats to children playing on the banks.

Practical tips for visitors
Luxor deserves preparation before visiting. Key tips:
- Bring a guidebook or research beforehand – it greatly enriches the experience
- Carry water, head covering and sunscreen – the heat can be intense
- Photography inside Valley of the Kings tombs is prohibited
- Visit lesser-known temples like Medinet Habu
- Haggling for souvenirs is a must-do cultural experience
Luxor is truly a journey through time. Though I spent just one day exploring, the memories will last forever. Here, history isn’t dry facts from books, but a vivid, tangible reality waiting to be discovered.
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