Statue of Egyptian god Thoth discovered in Luxor

History fanatics could be inspired to head to Luxor on their Egypt holidays after a red granite colossus was unearthed on the city's west bank.

A team of architects led by Dr Zahi Hawass, head of the North African country's Supreme Council of Antiquities, discovered the ancient statue, which is a 3.5-metre-tall tribute to Thoth, the Egyptian god of wisdom.

Dr Hawass said evidence points to the possible existence of similar relics at the site, after a five-metre tall colossus was discovered there back in 2009.

His comments were backed up by Afifi Rohayem, the assistant of the mission's director, who speculated: "The site could contain an avenue of Thoth statues that once outlined the original path leading to the temple."

Travellers eager to experience the country's ancient artefacts and attractions during their own Egypt holidays should check out the details of The Adventure Company's Nile River Adventure trip, which includes a one-night stay in Luxor.

If this article sparks your imagination then have a look at our Giza and the pyramids or our Family holidays to Egypt page