Watching the Science Channel episode of “Phantom Signals,” my ears perked up in between packaging ornaments and vacuuming tree needles. They were showing the singing, “Colossi of Memnon.” Singing? I never knew that little tidbit.
These huge statues used to “sing” when the wind drifted through the cracks that formed in them. They were revered for spiritual purposes, and named for the Greek warrior, Memnon, of Trojan War fame. Apparently when he died, his mother wept loudly, so they figured the statue was emulating her. Something like that. When the statues were moved by someone – who thought it was best for them – the singing stopped.
Anyway….over 50 years ago I saw the photo of these giants with teenie little people by them…thank you, Mom and Dad for the Childcraft Encyclopedia. I knew I would travel to Egypt. Fast forward to turning 50 and my husband making my dream a reality. However, I never knew that we would even see the Colossi. I just knew we were traveling the Nile and visiting the pyramids and temples. I nearly leapt out of my seat on the bus when I realized we were driving to this attraction as we went to the Valley of the Kings! What???? This wasn’t even on the itinerary. Apparently it’s not a big draw.
Obviously, they were still singing and I heard them as a child. Traveling in my memories.
