Avenue of Sphinxes
ATTRACTION Keywords:
Cultural Experience,
Monument - Historical,
Street / Avenue
The Avenue of Sphinxes was the site of ceremonial processions and originally connected the temples of Luxor and Karnak, although it is considerably more recent than either of those sites, dating to around 380 BC. It stretched some 1.5 miles (2.7 kilometers) and would once have had 1,350 sphinxes lining its sides. Around half of those have been uncovered, with many reworked by later civilizations or sitting in museums. Much of the avenue itself is covered by modern buildings.
There are dozens of examples in various states of preservation forming the immediate approach to each temple. Some of them bear the cat-like features of the famous Great Sphinx at Giza, others have rams’ heads. The entire avenue is the subject of a major ongoing excavation project.
Latest Reviews
Review by James D, September 2012
Doing what: Karnak Sound and Light Show with Private Transport
Brilliant, much improved light show, better visuals and better sound system.
Review by James D, July 2012
Doing what: Private Tour: Luxor East Bank, Karnak and Luxor Temples
A wonderful tour and an informative guide. 1st class
Review by Manuel U, June 2012
Doing what: Karnak Sound and Light Show with Private Transport
Excelent performance and the guide was punctual for the show
Practical Info
The visible parts of the Avenue of Sphinxes form the main approaches to both the Karnak Temple and the more centrally located Luxor Temple.
