THE CITY OF THEBES
OVERVIEW
The ancient city of Thebes, situated along the Nile in present-day Luxor, Egypt, emerges as a cradle of Egyptian civilization and a realm of monumental wonders. Divided into two parts—Luxor and Karnak—Thebes was the capital of the New Kingdom, witnessing the reign of iconic pharaohs like Tutankhamun and Ramses II. Its grandeur is palpable in the Valley of the Kings, where elaborate tombs harbor intricate art and hieroglyphics. The colossal temples of Luxor and Karnak stand as testaments to the city's religious and architectural prowess, honoring gods and commemorating leaders. The decline of Thebes followed shifts in political power and natural changes to the Nile's course. Today, the ruins of this once-mighty city remain a treasure trove for archaeologists and visitors, offering glimpses into a civilization that thrived for millennia along the banks of the eternal river.