Thinking of a Holiday in Egypt? Luxor is one city you must visit

Egypt is an attractive country- a status it has maintained and increasingly remains an attractive destination for tourists. When you arrive in Egypt, your attention is quickly drawn to the outstanding buildings, pyramids and a culture that is both rich and full of diversity.

Luxor in particular is remarkably great as a city in Egypt and many people consider it to have the world’s largest open air museum. Its eye-catching features include the well maintained monuments and artifacts which contribute its lovely nature. Luxor as a city is defined by three different areas which include the small town of Karnak (north of Luxor), Thebes-called Waset by locals and Luxor city itself. All these areas are widely talked about when describing Luxor.

A tomb that was discovered by Howard Carter the renowned archeologist is thought to have done the magic for Luxor’s popularity and is now seen as the bedrock of the Egyptian excitement and civilization. Tutankhamen is the name of the tomb. Semi autonomous status in Egypt is only enjoyed by no other city apart from Luxor. A good number of buildings here are built on the principle of a code that embraces the “ancient methods” Notable examples are the National bank of Egypt, railway station and spa.

A wonderful feeling adventure and tranquility is so easily derived from this immensely beautiful city. In addition, facilities and amenities identifiable with modern day city are equally at large with restaurants, clubs, and hotels readily available in abundance. For those tourists who love to shop, they will not be disappointed as there are quite a number of open air markets that offer a variety of alternatives for one to choose from.

Luxor used to be the economic powerhouse of Egypt and still continues to support the country’s economy though it is currently not the powerhouse. Its income is mainly drawn from tourism which transcends down to the Greek and Roman dynasties when immense tourism activities filled the place just as it is happening at present The hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops of the city are critical pillars in keeping the tourism industry alive.

Luxor is a relatively small city with three major streets that include Sharia al-Mahatta, Sharia al-Karnak and the Corniched, next to the Nile. It can be noted therefore that the city is relatively small-and this perhaps adds to its unique attributes as tourists can have the chance of traveling across the whole city within a short period of time. Sharia al- Mahatta Street is located in front of the train station along the Nile and stretches to connect with garden of Luxor temple. Sharia al Karnak Street is also known as Sharia al Markaz and it meets the Sharia al- Lokanda. A range of Egyptian souvenirs, colorful restaurants, cafs and bazaars line up this stretch while the alabaster and pottery works also form a great attraction.

The Luxor Museum of Mummification is entirely dedicated to mummification and was opened in’97 It is one of the most beautiful and attractive places to pay a visit. Not bold, it comprises a big room with guides to take tourists round while explaining the significance of each piece on display and has over 56 archaeological objects. Each object is complete with story boards that explain the step by step process of mummification. It also narrates interesting beliefs held by the community during the mummification period. Advancements of ancient society in the area of medicine and chemistry are some o the great lessons you will learn during the tour.

The Luxor temple which was built by New kingdom Pharaohs Amenhotep and Ramesses the second, is located in the heart of the city and was dedicated to the worship of the god Opet. Surprisingly despite being old, it is well kept. While inside this temple one experiences a feeling of being in time machine.

Another place worth paying a visit is Luxor museum which is more of a store house of arts and antiquities rather than a museum. This museum was established in the early’75 with most of the relics and artifacts found here dating way back to the pre-dynastic period through to the Islamic dynasty. The building is two storied, modern with a ramp connecting the floors. One of the historic figures of Egypt-Iamu Negh is right in this museum. Though small in size, it will definitely reward you with vast experience.

The largest remaining religious complexes in the world are believed to be the temples of Karnak. They span over an area of about 1500 square meters by 800 square meters and are thought to be over 1500 years old. During ancient times it was called Ipet-isut which meant the most select of places and remained Egypt’s sacred place of worship for a long time. It comprises of pylons, kiosks, sanctuaries and obelisks all dedicated to the native’s Theban gods. The temple is connected to Sharia al- Karnak Street through the dromos-a long stone Processional Street first introduced by Nectanebo the first and lined with sphinxes on either side. The dromos on Karnak temple are well kept and at the entrance is a Roman chapel made of burnt bricks and was dedicated to the worship of the Roman god Serapis.

A reserved and respected burial ground was dedicated to the Egyptian kings due to the firm believe that their status was not lost in death and therefore were expected to rule even after death. This ground was called the Valley of the Kings and was the final point of rest in preparation to meet the gods in the journey into the afterlife. The tombs of Tutankhamen and Ramesses the second were discovered in the’20’s and are equally attractive discoveries of the recent past.

The valley of the Queens was another special burial ground that was reserved for queens and their children for them to rest as well before they reunited with gods. Presently, there are only four tombs that can be viewed by the public. One of them is Nefertari which is a must visit for tourists.

Are you thinking of travelling to Egypt? Visit the author’s Africa Travel website where you will find useful information on Egypt Packages and resources while planning your Egypt Holiday. Grab a totally unique version of this article from the Uber Article Directory

categories: Luxor,Luxor City,Luxor Sites,Luxor Travel,Luxor Holidays,Luxor Vacations,Egypt,Vacations,Destinations,Safaris,Tours,Holidays,Travel

Related posts:

1. PlannIng Gay Vacations To Egypt As home to many sites of cultural, religious and historical importance, Egypt has attracted visitors for hundreds of years. Gay...