In Luxor and the Valley of the Kings, visitors can tour a stunning set of monuments from ancient Egypt.
Of all the locations visited by Nile River cruise boats, Luxor is the most splendid. This city, which was once known as Thebes, boasts the richest array of archeological sites in Egypt.
The city served as the capital of Egypt during the New Kingdom (1567-1085 B.C.E.).
Luxor Temple is located in the downtown within walking distance of where the cruise boats dock. It was constructed for the worship of the god Amon Ra, whose marriage anniversary to his wife, Mut, was celebrated once a year. At its entrance is a huge pylon or monumental gateway constructed by Ramses II, with two huge statues of the king. Two obelisks once stood here as well, though only one remains (the other stands at Concorde Square in Paris).