Located 60 minutes flying time from Cairo, and named by the Greek poet Homer as "Thebes of the Thousand Gates", Luxor was the centre of power for almost 1,500 years. The name "Luxor" means "the palaces" in Arabic and reflects the city's rich array of magnificent temples and tombs. During the 7th century BC, the Assyrians invaded Egypt and left the city of Thebes in ruin. Happily, today's ‘invaders’ are visitors who arrive in Luxor to view the remnants of a truly magnificent civilisation. An overwhelming display of ruined temples, ancient chapels, gigantic columns and majestic obelisks make Luxor an extraordinary tribute to the ancient Egyptians. On the East Bank there are the splendid ‘Temples of Luxor’ and ‘Karnak’ as well as the Luxor Museum which houses an impressive collection of local antiquities. The history and drama of the temple of ‘Karnak’ is presented every evening in an unforgettable sound and light show at the huge ‘Karnak’ complex. This unforgettable experience begins with a drive to the Luxor Temple which was built by two great pharaohs, Amenhotep III and Ramses II. After touring the temple you can travel along an avenue of ram-headed Sphinxes extending for about 2 miles which links the ‘Luxor Temple’ with the ‘Karnak Temple’, the main centre of worship in ancient Egypt. On the West Bank is the Valley of Kings and Valley of Queens, both profusions of historic and artistic wealth, where the ‘Temples of Hatchepshut’ and Ramses II mortuary, the ‘Temple of Medinet Habu’ stand in magnificent contrast to the unmarked tombs of the pharaohs hidden underground which include the tomb of Tutankhamen. The whole area around Luxor is awash with historical interest while the town itself is a quite small with a good range of local shops, restaurants and hotels.

TWOHIGS THOUGHTS
A truly fascinating place steeped in ancient culture. All attractions can get very busy so do expect long queues at times. Haggling in the village is common place and always book excursions through your chosen hotel or reputable ground agents such as our ground handlers.