Egypt is one of the oldest civilizations known to mankind, making it one of the most desired destinations to visit for history buffs and travelers seeking to explore a culture with a rich heritage. From the towering Pyramids of Giza to the remarkable temples of Luxor, Egypt is plentiful when it comes to ancient wonders that will leave you feeling like you have been transported back in time. If you are planning a visit to Egypt, here are some of the must- see ancient attractions to talk about with your travel agent.
1. The Pyramids of Giza
They are undoubtedly the most popular ancient Egyptian landmarks. These prominent structures have stood the test of time, surviving over
4,000 years. The pyramids were built as tombs for the pharaohs and their queens,
and they still hold many secrets and mysteries. Visitors can explore the interior of the pyramids, marvel at the engineering feat that is the Great Pyramid, and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding desert. Don’t forget to also check out the iconic Great Sphinx of Giza among the pyramids. This famous statue has the body of the mythical Sphinx and a human head thought to be a representative of the pharaoh Khafre.
2. The Karnak Temple Complex
It is one of the largest ancient religious sites in the world and is located in Luxor, Egypt. This awe-inspiring temple took 1,500 years to be completed. The complex contains a vast array of temples, chapels, pylons, and other structures, all dedicated to the gods and goddesses of ancient Egypt. Because of its vastness, a visitor should plan to spend 3-4 hours here to take in all the major highlights. Visitors can wander through the vast complex, marvel at the intricately carved hieroglyphs, and imagine what life was like for the priests and worshippers who once called this place home.
3. The Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings is a vast necropolis where the pharaohs of ancient Egypt were buried. It is located on the west bank of the Nile, opposite Luxor. The valley contains over 60 tombs, including those of famous pharaohs such as Tutankhamun (discovered in 1922) Ramses II and Seti I. Explore the tombs, marvel at the intricate decorations, and learn about the religious beliefs and practices of ancient Egypt. Spend time taking in the hieroglyphics as they give a lot of insight into the funerary practices of ancient Egypt.
4. Abu Simbel
Abu Simbel is a temple complex located in Nubia, on the southernmost border of Egypt. It was built by Ramses II and is dedicated to the gods Amun, Ra-Horakhty, and Ptah. The complex consists of two temples, the Great Temple of Ramses II and the Temple of Hathor. The Great Temple is famous for its colossal statues of Ramses II, which stand at over 65 feet. Wander through the two temples, marvel at the exquisite carvings and paintings, and learn about the history and culture of ancient Nubia. Don’t forget to stay for the Sounds and Light show which takes you on a journey through the Pharoah’s era.
5. Luxor Temple
Located in the heart of Luxor and is known as the world’s largest “open-air museum”. The temple was built by the king of Amenhotep, and its purpose was to have a place of worship in an ideal location. It was also dedicated to the coronation of new kingship and even later served as a burial site for pharaohs and royals alike. The temple complex contains many structures, including the main temple, the colonnade of Amenhotep III, and the Avenue of Sphinxes. The temple served as a place for religious sacrifices, prayers for mercy, hieroglyphics depicting some of the most important events in ancient Egypt, and a place containing libraries for scholars.
Egypt is a land of wonders, and its ancient heritage is a testament to its rich cultural history. Although these five attractions are Egypt’s must-see for those interested in ancient civilization, they are just a few of the many that this country has to offer. Egypt is one of the only destinations that allow you to immerse yourself in the stories, traditions, and beliefs of an ancient civilization while offering a glimpse into the way of life that has shaped our current world. So, if you’re planning a trip to Egypt, be sure to talk with your travel agent to add these must-see historic attractions to your itinerary.
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