The first project season took place in mid-2023 after obtaining permits in March 2023. On-site work at the temple continued intermittently until early October.
This first season focused on a preliminary approach to the blocks and the work area. After years of studying the possible blocks, the first task was to discern and differentiate the blocks of the Colossus of Amenhotep III from those of the Colossus of Horemheb, which were found mixed in the stone beds.
At the same time as we were working with the crane to move the blocks in the stone beds, we began clearing the plants around the base of the Colossus, which is in its original location on the 10th pylon.
During this first season, after separating the blocks, we were able to determine that of the 101 known blocks of the Colossus, we had 349, a major advance. All the blocks were documented, numbered, photographed, drawn, measured, and archived. In addition to the significant increase in blocks, significant additions to our stone puzzle were made, especially in the back pillar, midsection, and arms.
A season with great preliminary results that would pave the way for our launch in 2024.
