" It is, however, rather unfortunate for Denon's
description, that another traveller denies that there is such an
approach to Thebes as is mentioned in the extract, and he assures us
that the ruins cannot be seen till the traveller comes near them; and
further, that to produce such astonishing effects as the Frenchman
describes, we ought to be _very_ near them or _among_ them. Without
pretending to reconcile these contradictions, we can readily believe
that the ruins may produce a considerable effect, even at some
distance, if Denon's drawings are at all correct. As to the impression
made by a near inspection of these wonderful remains, there is no
discrepancy among travellers.
Thebes lay on each side of the river, and extended also on both sides
as far as the mountains. The tombs, which are on the western side,
reach even into the limits of the desert. Four principal villages
stand on the site of this ancient city,--Luxor and Carnak on the
eastern, Gournou and Medinet-Abou on the western side. The temple of
Luxor is very near the river, and there is here a good ancient jettee,
well built of bricks. The entrance to this temple is through a
magnificent propylon, or gateway, facing the north, 200 feet in front,
and 57 feet high above the present level of the soil. Before the
gateway stand the two most perfect obelisks that exist, formed, as
usual, of the red granite of Syene, and each about 80 feet high,
and from 8 to 10 feet wide at the base.
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