Ramesseum, Luxor

Ramesseum, Luxor (must see)

The Ramesseum was the mortuary temple for Ramses II, one of the best known and longest ruling pharaohs of ancient Egypt. The reign of Ramses II was marked by the construction of many of the 18th dynasty’s finest buildings and monuments, and the Ramesseum was one of its greatest architectural feats. Known in its time as the “Million Years Temple”, perhaps in recognition of its immense size, the temple took 20 years to build. Originally there were two colossal statues of Ramses II at the entrance to the temple, these have since collapsed, but you can see parts of them throughout the complex.

The temple was designed around two supporting walls with an extensive corridor between them, where statues of sphinxes, similar to those found at the Luxor Temple, were present. There are also impressive Oriside columns, which feature Ramses II transforming into Osiris, god of the underworld. These columns are in an excellent condition and still feature much of the original coloring and detail, depicting scenes from the Upper and Lower Kingdoms of Ancient Egypt. At the eastern end of the Ramesseum there are scenes of the pharaoh’s alliance with the Hittites, one of his major achievements in Asia over a 15 year period. Friezes on the entrance pylon clearly show the Ramses II army on the move during military campaigns.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Luxor. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Ramesseum on Map

Sight Name: Ramesseum
Sight Location: Luxor, Egypt (See walking tours in Luxor)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Luxor, Egypt

Create Your Own Walk in Luxor

Create Your Own Walk in Luxor

Creating your own self-guided walk in Luxor is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Luxor East Bank Walking Tour

Luxor East Bank Walking Tour

The East Bank area is located in the heart of Luxor city. It has plenty of top sights including wonderful working temples and museums, such as the Luxor Temple, the Karnak Temple Complex, the Luxor Museum and the Mummification Museum. Take our tour to experience the beauty of Luxor’s East Bank district.

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.7 Km or 2.9 Miles
Luxor Archaeology Tour Part 1

Luxor Archaeology Tour Part 1

The Theban necropolis area - located in Upper Egypt, across the River Nile from the modern city of Luxor - is considered to be one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. You will be amazed by the many splendid temples, tombs and other historic attractions in this area, which is now known as Luxor's West Bank. The ruins of the Workers Village, the Colossi of Memnon, and...  view more

Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 6.5 Km or 4 Miles
Luxor Archaeology Tour Part 2

Luxor Archaeology Tour Part 2

The West Bank area of Luxor - located across the River Nile from the modern city itself - is a true archaeological paradise full of must-see sights for any visitor. There are a number of ancient Egyptian pharaoh tombs, necropolises and temples here, dating from the time of the ancient city of Thebes. Take our walking tour to see all the best sights in the area.

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.9 Km or 2.4 Miles