The Luxor area of Upper Egypt was the Thebes of
the ancient Egyptians - the capital of Egypt
during the Middle and New Kingdoms. On the east
bank is the modern town of Luxor. Running
alongside part of the river bank and separated
from it by the corniche is Luxor Temple. At the
northern end of town is the sprawling Karnak
complex of temples built over a span of about
1,500 years. It is famous for its main Hypostyle
Hall with 134 massive columns. One can wander for
hours amongst the ruins. Starting at the first
pylon, one walks back through time to the earlier
constructions toward the rear. About halfway
between Luxor and Karnak temples is located the
Luxor Museum - one of the best in Egypt. The West
Bank was the domain of the deceased and it is
dominated by mortuary temples and hundreds of
tombs.
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