Ramesseum (Mortuary Temple of Ramses II)
West Bank, Edfo, Luxor, 1341711
Towering, headless statues stand watch over the Ramesseum, part of Ramses II’s funerary complex. An awe-inspiring hypostyle hall is surrounded by courts, storage rooms, and a sanctuary, as well as unusual mud-brick structures. It’s not only magnificent, but also less visited than other West Bank sites—great for experiencing Luxor without the crowds.
The basics
While the Ramesseum is not as well preserved as nearby Medinet Habu (Temple of Ramses III), its huge statues, pylons, columns, and hieroglyphics invite exploring. The Ramesseum is an included stop on some West Bank tours or can be combined with Medinet Habu on a half-day trip. For a more in-depth experience, opt for a tour that focuses on the Ramesseum exclusively, ensuring plenty of time to take in the site’s remarkable details.
Things to know before you go
- The temple is a must-visit for history buffs and fans of ancient Egypt.
- Bring a sun hat and protective clothing, as the site has little shade.
- The Ramesseum is not wheelchair-accessible.
How to get there
The Ramesseum is located on the West Bank, close to top sites including Medinet Habu, the Temple of Hatshepsut, the Valley of the Nobles, and the Valley of the Kings. If you’re visiting the Ramesseum on a tour, transportation will be taken care of; for those traveling on their own, it’s a 40-minute taxi ride from downtown Luxor.
When to get there
As with other West Bank sites, a morning visit is best for comfortable temperatures. The most popular time to visit Luxor is during the cooler winter months. Brave the hot summer, however, and you might even have the Ramesseum to yourself—the low season means far fewer crowds throughout Luxor.
The Ramesseum in Ozymandias
Once known as the "Tomb of Ozymandias" or the "Memnonium," the Ramesseum was an inspiration for the poem Ozymandias by Percy Shelley. Find the Colossus of Ramses II, which appears in the poem, scattered on the ground by the western stairs. "My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings," wrote Shelley, "Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!"
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!