The Temple of Luxor
Located close to the Nile and parallel with the riverbank, the
Temple of Luxor is deservedly famous because it is one of only a
few temples to have only two pharaohs leave their architectural
stamp on the structure. It was built mostly by Amenhotep III and
Ramesses II, during a time when many festivals were celebrated in
Thebes. The Temple of Luxor is thought to have been built as a ritual
ground for the festival of Opet, when lavish offerings were made
to the divine ruler. In exchange, people could ask for favors from
the images of gods that were on the barges or from statues of the
kings.
Expect large crowds when you go to view the temple, and be sure
to enter from the north, where a causeway lined by sphinxes will
let you know you’re at the entrance.
|
