Kom Ombo Temple

This site south of Aswan along Lake Nasser's shore is that the most famous altogether of Egypt after the Giza Pyramids. Built by the one of The greatest pharaohs, Ramses, these massive rock-cut temples marked the southern boundary of Egypt with Nubia at the height of its power during the New Kingdom. They were meant to convey the ability of Egypt's rulers to anyone who laid eyes upon them.


Abu Simbel was rediscovered in 1813 by Swiss explorer John Lewis Burckhardt. The temples had been forgotten for long, and the sands had covered nearly most of the large statues. Since 1909 when the sand was finally cleared away, these twin temples became the first famous site in Egypt's south.

Although they appear like monuments to Ramses and his wife, both temples are temples dedicated to the gods. The more significant temple with four huge statues of Ramses seated ahead of it's dedicated to Amun, Ptah, and Re-Harakty. The second temple, still huge although significantly smaller than the primary, was built to honor Ramess's favorite wife, Nefertari, and is devoted to the goddess Hathor.

The temple has six colossal statues on its facade, four depicting Ramesses, and the other two showing Nefertari. The second temple is critical for the status afforded to the wife of the pharaoh, representing her several times on equal footing with the pharaoh.
The enormous temple is illuminated with the sun twice a year, and the sun shines into its deepest recesses to illuminate Ramesses's statue.  The Abu Simbel Sun Festival occurs on February 22nd and October 22nd of each year, with several thousand people gathering early within the morning to determine this testament to the knowledge and skill that the traditional Egyptians possess to align the temple so perfectly.

The temples are located several hours drive south of Aswan, but most tourists make Abu Simbel by plane. The flight from Aswan is simply half-hour, and there are two flights daily, time so that tourists will have about two hours to spend at the temples.
It is also possible to go to Abu Simbel by joining a Nasser cruise. These ships moor just before the temples so that passengers can determine the temples by moonlight and in the early morning light. Looking for a great way to explore this impressive temple, brwose our variety of Egypt Tour to The Temple.

This beautiful Philae temple complex is one of the foremost things to do in Aswan with it's picturesque in all of Egypt. It sits on Aglika Island just south of the old High Dam, and you need to ride a motorboat to reach the island. This temple was moved to its current location following the development of the High Dam, which threatened to submerge it permanently.

The exact reconstruction at this site carefully completed, painstakingly preserving the original appearance and layout of the complex and even landscaping the island to match its former location.

Philae grew to prominence during the Ptolemaic Dynasty, because of the center of the cult of the goddess Isis. This complex was one of all the last remaining places, where the traditional religion survived after the arrival of Christianity in Egypt, officially closed only in 550 AD as the Early Christians used most of the temple on the island as a church.

This is the reason for the defacement of a number of the figures of the traditional Gods, as these Christians tried to get rid of the pagan imagery from their newly claimed sanctuaries.
The Temple of Isis is the main feature here, but there are several other smaller temples on the island that are worth admiring.

The location of the Aswan dam

The Aswan Dam is located in the south of Egypt, Aswan crosses the Nile River and utilizes its power for several social and economic cases.

History of building Aswan Dam

British engineers started working on the first Aswan Dam in 1899 and completed the work in 1902, but the final result showed to be inadequate for the strong currents of the Nile. Some attempts to raise the height of the Dam had been carried out, but it still insufficient.
The Egyptian government decided to build a second dam after the 1952 Egyptian Revolution, and the building lasted until 1970. The second Dam was primarily intended to be a joint project between Egypt, the United States, and Great Britain. But Unfortunately, the foreign backers canceled the funding before construction began.
Therefore, The Soviet Union offered to provide some of the needed funding to gain a foothold in Africa during the Cold War. They also provided technicians and large machinery, as well as funds.

Benefits of the High Dam

The essential benefit of the Aswan Dam is controlling the annual flooding of the Nile River. Also, the Dam has helped the agricultural industries in the area as it provided much-needed water for irrigation, as well as producing electricity from the hydroelectric output of the river. The Dam granted small villages in Egypt the luxury of using electricity for the first time.
 Lake Nasser, named in his honor, is the giant reservoir created by the Dam –300 miles long and 10 miles wide. Its formation required the resettlement of 90,000 Egyptian peasants and Sudanese Nubian nomads. Most of the water that enters into Lake Nasser is dedicated to agricultural causes; the water is applied to crops on the field through a system that allows two crops a year to be produced, in contrast with the natural precipitation which allowed one crop only in the year. This enhanced the economy of the country.

What happened to the Archaeological sites for building the Dam

Nearly 22 monuments and architectural complexes that were threatened by flooding from Lake Nasser, including the Abu Simbel temples, were relocated to the shores of the lake under the UNESCO Campaign for Nubia. Other monuments that were relocated are Philae, Kalabsha, Amada, The Debod temple, The Temple of Dendur, The Temple of Taffeh, The Temple of Ellesyia, and The temple of Ramses II.

Aswan City is a hidden gem in Egypt that is often overlooked by tourists. However, this ancient city has so much to offer, from historic landmarks to cultural experiences and adventure activities. In this guide, we will take you through the best attractions and activities that Aswan City has to offer. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Aswan City has something for everyone.

Introduction to Aswan City

Aswan City is located in the southern part of Egypt and is often referred to as the gateway to Africa. This ancient city has a rich history that dates back to the Pharaonic era. Aswan City is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in Egypt, including the Aswan Dam, Philae Temple, and the Unfinished Obelisk. In addition to its historic landmarks, Aswan City is also known for its natural beauty, with the Nile River, Lake Nasser, and Elephantine Island offering stunning scenery.

Top Aswan attractions and landmarks

If you are planning a trip to Aswan City, there are several attractions and landmarks that you should not miss. One of the most iconic landmarks in Aswan City is the Aswan Dam. This impressive structure spans the Nile River and was built in the 1960s to control the flooding of the Nile and generate hydroelectric power. Visitors can take a tour of the dam and learn about its history and engineering.
Another must-see attraction in Aswan City is the Philae Temple. This ancient temple was dedicated to the goddess Isis and was moved from its original location on Philae Island to its current location on Agilkia Island in the 1970s to save it from being submerged by the rising waters of Lake Nasser. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.

Exploring the Aswan Dam and Lake Nasser

The Aswan Dam is not only an impressive feat of engineering but also offers stunning views of the Nile River and Lake Nasser. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake and see the various islands and temples that are scattered throughout the area. The lake is also a popular spot for fishing and water sports, such as kayaking and windsurfing.
If you are interested in learning more about the history and culture of the area, you can also take a tour of the Nubian villages that are located along the shores of Lake Nasser. These villages offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Nubian people, who are known for their colorful clothing, music, and dance.

Nubian culture and traditions

The Nubian people have a rich history and culture that is unique to the Aswan region. One of the best ways to experience Nubian culture is to visit the Nubian Museum in Aswan City. This museum showcases the history, art, and culture of the Nubian people, with exhibits that range from ancient artifacts to contemporary art.

Another way to experience Nubian culture is to attend a traditional Nubian music and dance performance. These performances are often held in local cafes or restaurants and feature colorful costumes, lively music, and energetic dance moves.

Philae Temple and other ancient sites

In addition to the Philae Temple, Aswan City is home to several other ancient sites that are worth visiting. The Temple of Kom Ombo, which is located about 50 kilometers north of Aswan City, is a unique temple that is dedicated to two gods, Sobek and Horus. The temple is known for its unusual design, with two identical entrances and two sets of chambers and halls.

Another ancient site that is worth visiting is the Abu Simbel temples. These temples were built by Pharaoh Ramesses II in the 13th century BC and were also moved to their current location to save them from being submerged by the rising waters of Lake Nasser. The temples are known for their impressive size and intricate carvings.

Cruise along the Nile River

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Aswan City is to take a cruise along the Nile River. There are several cruise options available, from luxury cruises to budget-friendly options. During the cruise, you can sit back and relax while taking in the stunning scenery of the Nile River and the surrounding landscape.

Aswan Botanical Garden and Elephantine Island

For nature lovers, the Aswan Botanical Garden and Elephantine Island are must-visit destinations. The botanical garden is located on Kitchener Island and is home to a wide variety of plants and trees from around the world. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Elephantine Island, which is located in the Nile River, is known for its ancient ruins and historic sites. The island was a major center of trade and commerce in ancient times and was once home to a temple dedicated to the god Khnum. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the history of the island at the Elephantine Island Museum.

Local markets and shopping

No trip to Aswan City is complete without a visit to the local markets. The Aswan Souk, which is located in the heart of Aswan City, is a bustling market that is known for its colorful stalls and traditional handicrafts. Visitors can browse through the stalls and purchase souvenirs, such as jewelry, textiles, and pottery.

Adventure activities in Aswan

For adventure seekers, Aswan City offers several exciting activities. One of the most popular activities is hot air ballooning, which offers stunning views of the Nile River and the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also go camel trekking in the desert, take a quad biking tour, or go hiking in the nearby mountains.

Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan

The Unfinished Obelisk is one of the most unique landmarks in Aswan City. This massive obelisk was carved out of solid granite but was never completed. Visitors can see the obelisk in its unfinished state and learn about the ancient quarrying techniques that were used to carve it.
Conclusion: Why Aswan City should be on your travel bucket list.

Aswan City is a hidden gem in Egypt that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its iconic landmarks and ancient sites to its vibrant markets and adventure activities, Aswan City has something for everyone. If you are planning a trip to Egypt, be sure to put Aswan City on your travel bucket list. You won't be disappointed!

See Also

All What you Need to Know about The Nubian Customs and Villages

Kom Ombo Temple

Philae Temple

The dam was conceived as an ambitious, multi-purpose project aimed at improving irrigation and water resource control and development, increasing cultivation, providing protection against high floods and severe drought, and facilitating navigation, fishery expansion and electric power generation, while minimizing harmful effects on the environment and the country's rich cultural heritage.

All What you Need to Know about The Nubian 

The Nubian region lies on the Nile River, 123,000 square kilometers between Aswan in southern Egypt and Khartoum in central northern Sudan. It had been one in all the first civilizations of ancient Africa, which invaded the land around 1500 BC. Nubia was highly famous for being the house of the many powerful kingdoms, most prominent is the kingdom of Kush, which even conquered Egypt within the 8th century BC and formed the 25th dynasty. Within the 4th century AD, the great kingdom of kush came to an end, and then Nubia was divided between Egypt and Sudan,  However, during the 19th century in 1899, the Khedive of Egypt united the whole region.

Nubian in Ancient Egypt

 Both two countries had a profound relationship during peace and war times. They both used similar royal symbols supported rock art. there have been many cultural exchanges and cooperation and even marriage between both. They'd a robust economic relationship through trading in ebony, ivory, leopard skins, and a spread of resins. The Nubia acted as Egypt’s connection to the riches of east and south of Africa like gold, incense, ebony, copper, ivory, and rare animals.

Nubian Temples

 The word Nubia comes from the word “Nub,” which suggests gold for the number of gold mines within the area, rare stones, and the house of a number of the foremost beautiful and majestic monuments in Egypt. The Nubia area is famous for holding two of the outstanding principal temples within the history of ancient Egypt, the Temple of Philae and Abu Simbel temple. UNESCO rescued both the two temples within the mid-60s due to the High High Dam's disastrous consequences.

Nubian Crafts

 The Nubians are known to be a proud, gentle, honest, and enduring people with their own unique culture and customs. Their houses were known of containing a backyard and topped with a dome. Their culture includes different forms of art, stunning drawings, exquisite decorations, and enchanting pottery, handicrafts weaving of baskets and mats from palm fronds and necklaces.

Nubian Customs and Villages

 They have many traditions, dances, and a unique set of customs within their culture, especially when the wedding takes place and a newborn “Sebou” is delivered. All of them marry within the same area thanks to their inclusive nature. Their villages are quite different from anything in Egypt and divided to 2 tribes which are Al-Fadigka: the Arab Al-Orayqat (Originally Bedouin Traders who Migrated from Hijaz), and Al-Konoz, also called Al-Matoka (A mixture of Arab Tribes, the most important Being Al-Gohayna Tribe, from the Arabian Peninsula).

Nubian Museum

The UNESCO built the Nubian Museum in Aswan to bring the Nubian culture back to life because it was constructed supported Nubian architecture and ancient sandstone and holds about 2,000 artifacts; many of them are from ancient Nubian culture and plenty of colorful which exhibits form the Nubian heritage.

Book Your Egypt Vacations Now

With its unique ancient history, historical artifacts, cultural adventures, and countless activities, Egypt is the place you can sense the old, the new, and everything in between. To experience everything Egypt has to offer, you can browse our Egypt travel packages and Nile cruises and seize the chance to witness all the beauty of the ancient Egyptian treasures.

Are you ready to embark on a journey through time and witness the glory of one of the most majestic temples in ancient Egypt? Get ready to unravel the secrets of the Edfu Temple, a temple dedicated to the falcon god Horus, located on the west bank of the Nile in the city of Edfu. This temple is a true wonder of ancient Egyptian architecture and religion, and its mysteries and legends continue to fascinate scholars and visitors alike.

Introduction to the Edfu Temple

The Edfu Temple is one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, and it is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in ancient Egyptian culture and history. The temple was built during the Ptolemaic period, between 237 and 57 BC, and it took almost 200 years to complete. The temple is dedicated to the falcon god Horus, who was one of the most important gods in ancient Egyptian religion. The temple was built on the site of an earlier temple from the New Kingdom period, and it is one of the largest temples in Egypt, covering an area of almost 23,000 square meters.

Where is the Temple of Edfu Located?

The Edfu Temple is located in the town of Edfu, which is situated on the west bank of the Nile River. Edfu is approximately halfway between Aswan and Luxor, making it an ideal stop for tourists who are traveling between the two cities. The temple is situated on a high mound, which gives visitors a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

Who Built the Temple of Edfu?

The Edfu Temple was built during the Ptolemaic Dynasty, which ruled Egypt from 305 BC to 30 BC. The temple was built to honor the god Horus, who was one of the most important deities in ancient Egyptian mythology. The construction of the temple was carried out over a period of almost 200 years, with work starting in 237 BC and finishing in 57 BC.

When Was the Temple of Edfu Built?

The construction of the Edfu Temple began in 237 BC during the reign of Ptolemy III Euergetes. The temple was built on the site of an earlier temple that had been destroyed by floods. The temple was completed in 57 BC during the reign of Ptolemy XII Neos Dionysos. Over the years, the temple has undergone several renovations and restorations, which have helped to preserve its condition.

What Was the Temple of Edfu Built For?

The Edfu Temple was built as a place of worship for the god Horus. The temple was also used for various religious ceremonies and festivals throughout the year. In addition to its religious significance, the temple was also an important cultural center. It housed a library and a school where priests were trained in the art of writing and reading hieroglyphics.

The history of the Edfu Temple

The history of the Edfu Temple is closely linked to the history of ancient Egypt itself. The temple was built during the Ptolemaic period, a time when Egypt was ruled by Greek-speaking kings who had adopted many aspects of Egyptian culture and religion. The temple was built to replace an earlier temple from the New Kingdom period, which had fallen into disrepair. The construction of the new temple was a massive undertaking that took almost 200 years to complete.

The temple was built by several Ptolemaic kings, but the most important of these was Ptolemy III, who was responsible for starting the construction of the temple. The temple was completed by his successor, Ptolemy IV, who dedicated the temple to Horus, the falcon god. The temple was an important center of worship for Horus, and it played a key role in the religious life of ancient Egypt.

The architecture of the Edfu Temple

The Edfu Temple is a true masterpiece of ancient Egyptian architecture, and it is a testament to the skill and ingenuity of the ancient Egyptians. The temple is built in the traditional Egyptian style, with a large courtyard, a hypostyle hall, and several smaller rooms and chambers. The temple is decorated with intricate carvings and hieroglyphs, which tell the story of the temple's construction and the history of Horus.

One of the most impressive features of the temple is the massive entrance pylon, which is almost 36 meters high. The pylon is decorated with scenes from the life of Horus, including his battles with his arch-nemesis, the god Seth. The hypostyle hall is also a marvel of ancient Egyptian engineering, with 12 massive columns that are decorated with scenes from the life of Horus.

The significance of the Edfu Temple in ancient Egyptian religion

The Edfu Temple was an important center of worship for Horus, the falcon god, and it played a key role in the religious life of ancient Egypt. Horus was one of the most important gods in ancient Egyptian religion, and he was associated with the sky, kingship, and protection.

The temple was also an important site for the annual festival of Horus, which was celebrated in honor of the god. The festival was a time of great celebration and feasting, and it was an important event in the religious calendar of ancient Egypt.

The myths and legends associated with the Edfu Temple

The Edfu Temple is steeped in myths and legends, which have fascinated scholars and visitors for centuries. According to one legend, the temple was built on the site where Horus defeated his arch-nemesis, the god Seth, in a great battle. Another legend tells of a secret chamber within the temple, which is said to contain a hidden treasure.

Perhaps the most famous legend associated with the temple is the myth of the Eye of Horus. According to the myth, Horus lost his left eye in a battle with Seth, but the eye was magically restored by the god Thoth. The eye became a symbol of protection and healing, and it was often used in amulets and other religious objects.

The mysteries of the Edfu Temple

Despite its long history and its importance in ancient Egyptian religion, the Edfu Temple still holds many mysteries and secrets. One of the most intriguing of these is the secret chamber within the temple, which is said to contain a hidden treasure.

Another mystery is the purpose of the massive entrance pylon, which is decorated with scenes from the life of Horus. Some scholars believe that the pylon was designed to intimidate visitors and to demonstrate the power of the Ptolemaic kings.

The restoration and preservation of the Edfu Temple

The Edfu Temple has undergone several restoration and preservation projects over the years, in order to protect it from the ravages of time and to ensure that it remains accessible to visitors. The most recent restoration project was completed in 2010, and it involved cleaning and repairing the temple's intricate carvings and hieroglyphs.

The restoration project also included the installation of new lighting and ventilation systems, which will help to protect the temple from damage caused by humidity and other environmental factors.

What to see inside Edfu Temple

As you enter the Edfu Temple, you will be struck by the sheer size and grandeur of the structure. The temple is made up of several different sections, each of which has its own unique features and decorations. The main entrance to the temple is through the first pylon, which is a massive gateway that is adorned with intricate carvings and hieroglyphics.

Once inside the temple, you will find yourself in the first courtyard, which is surrounded by a colonnade of 32 columns. The courtyard is decorated with scenes of gods and goddesses, as well as various mythical creatures. From the first courtyard, you will enter the hypostyle hall, which is supported by 12 massive columns. The walls of the hypostyle hall are covered in hieroglyphics and scenes from Egyptian mythology.

Beyond the hypostyle hall, you will enter the sanctuary, which is the most sacred part of the temple. The sanctuary is home to the statue of Horus, which was believed to be the god's physical manifestation. The statue is made of black granite and stands over six meters tall. The sanctuary is also decorated with scenes of Horus and other important deities.

Edfu Temple Opening Hours

The Edfu Temple is open to visitors every day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. However, it is important to note that the temple can get quite busy, especially during peak tourist season. To avoid the crowds, it is recommended that you visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
 

Tips for visiting the Edfu Temple

If you are planning a visit to the Edfu Temple, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. First, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the temple is quite large and you will be doing a lot of walking. Second, be prepared for the heat, as the temple can get quite hot during the day.

Finally, be sure to bring a camera, as the temple is a photographer's dream, with its intricate carvings and hieroglyphs, and its stunning architecture.

Other temples to visit in the area

If you are interested in ancient Egyptian temples, there are several other temples in the area that are worth visiting. One of these is the Kom Ombo Temple, which is dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon god Horus. Another temple is the Philae Temple, which is located on an island in the Nile, and which was dedicated to the goddess Isis.

Conclusion
The Edfu Temple is a true wonder of ancient Egyptian architecture and religion, and it is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the history and culture of ancient Egypt. Its mysteries and legends continue to fascinate scholars and visitors alike, and its intricate carvings and hieroglyphs offer a glimpse into the past that is truly awe-inspiring.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to the Edfu Temple by booking one of our Egypt Vacations and embark on a journey through time that you will never forget.