7 Days Cairo, Luxor & Aswan Tour

The 12-Day Egypt Adventure Tour is a thrilling adventure that takes you to some of the iconic places in Egypt. The tour includes the Pyramids of Giza, Alexandria's historic libraries and catacombs, the verdant beauty of Fayoum, the stately temples of Luxor, as well as the enticing Nubian culture in Aswan. This Egypt travel package offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature, giving you a complete and memorable Egyptian experience

Enjoy The ultimate 10-day honeymoon package in Egypt: Explore the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza, a leisurely cruise along the Nile River, visiting the ancient temples of Luxor and Aswan, and finally, a relaxing escape to the pristine shores of Hurghada. Luxurious accommodations, romantic experiences, and unforgettable memories for all honeymooners await in this Egypt travel package.

Enjoy the most magnificent history of Egypt—a whole 5-day trip into Cairo and Luxor. In Cairo, you will visit the most famous Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum, which has a billion ancient artifacts. After that, you visit Luxor, often called the greatest open-air museum in the world, with countless sights to visit: the Valley of the Kings, the Karnak Temple, and the Luxor Temple. This Egypt travel package encompasses the wonders of historical sites and culture in the most exciting places.

Experience an 8-day Cairo and Nile Cruise tour, a perfect Egypt travel package for individuals interested in exploring Egypt for history, adventure, and culture. See the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, then set sail on a Nile cruise to visit the majestic temples of Luxor, Karnak, and Philae. This Egypt vacation package is an ideal opportunity to view Egypt's ancient wonders comfortably and in style.

Explore Islamic Cairo's diverse cultural heritage during a 5-day tour as part of an extended Egypt travel package. Tour iconic mosques like the Sultan Hassan Mosque, explore historical sites like the Citadel of Saladin, and shop at Cairo's bustling markets. This Egypt vacation package offers a comprehensive tour of Cairo's Islamic history, with expert guides and memorable experiences at every turn.

Set out for an incredible 8-day vacation of Cairo and Nile Cruise, offering exciting Egypt travel packages for history lovers. Walk among the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, and the old sections of Islamic Cairo, then hop on the Nile cruise and sail away in leisure through the temples of ancient Luxor, Karnak, and Aswan. This Nile-facilitated vacation package of Egypt encounters like Egypt's ancient wonders with great leisure cruises, plus an enriching cultural experience."

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.

Giza Pyramids

The Giza Pyramids rise majestically, captivating the world as one of its most mesmerizing wonders. Yet, the mysteries of their construction, purpose, and timeline linger unanswered. In this article, we embark on a journey to uncover the secrets of why, How, and when Pharaohs built the pyramids.

Why did the Pharaohs build the Giza Pyramids?

The Giza Pyramids have fascinated historians and archaeologists for centuries, with numerous theories attempting to unravel their purpose. The prevailing belief suggests that these colossal structures were erected as tombs for the pharaohs and their consorts upon their demise.
 
Crafted with astounding architectural precision, the Egypt Pyramids showcase the extraordinary skills of ancient Egyptian builders. Each limestone block, weighing several tons, contributes to the sheer grandeur of these monuments, challenging our modern understanding of construction techniques.
 
One prevalent theory suggests that the pyramids symbolized the divine authority and everlasting legacy of the Pharaohs. Driven by the belief in the immortality of their souls, the pharaohs aimed to immortalize their reign through these monumental structures.
 
Moreover, some scholars propose that the alignment of the pyramids with celestial events, such as the Great Pyramid's alignment with the North Pole star, reflects the ancient Egyptians' profound interest in astronomy. That implies that astronomical knowledge played a significant role in the building architectural wonders.
 
Despite the plethora of theories, the exact purpose behind the Great Pyramids of Giza's construction remains elusive. Nevertheless, their enduring allure continues to captivate people worldwide, serving as a testament to the remarkable achievements of ancient civilizations and a symbol of human ingenuity across generations.

Embark on a journey through time with our exclusive Egypt travel packages and witness the magnificence of the Giza Pyramids firsthand.

What was the aim of the Karnak temples?

When you plan for a vacation to Egypt and decide to visit Karnak, you're paying a visit to the center of Egypt during the New Kingdom. This huge temple complex was in the middle of the traditional faith, while power was concentrated at Thebes (modern-day Luxor), and its significance is reflected in its enormous size. Additionally to its religious significance, it served as a treasury, place of work, and palace for the New Kingdom pharaohs. It's considered because the largest temple complex ever constructed anywhere in the world.

It developed over a period of 1500 years, added to by generation after generation of pharaohs and leading to a group of temples, sanctuaries, pylons, and other decorations that are unparalleled throughout Egypt.

While the peak of its importance was during the New Kingdom and famous pharaohs like Hatshepsut, Tuthmose III, Seti I, and Ramses the Great all contributed significant additions to the complex, and construction continued into the Greco-Roman Period with the Ptolemies, Romans, and early Christians all leaving their mark here

How are the structures of the Karnak temples Complex:

Karnak is divided into three compounds: the precinct of Amun, the precinct of Mut, and the precinct of Montu; however, for many visitors, the biggest of those, the precinct of Amun, is enough. Its complicated layout alone dwarfs every other site that you will visit in Egypt. The precinct of Amun contains all of the first famous sections of the Karnak complex, including the dizzying Great Hypostyle Hall. This hall of 134 massive columns. Going into the detailed description of the various elements that form up the complex could be a nearly endless task that we'll leave to a guide.

 Instead, we'll suggest that you allow lots of time to explore this vast complex and admire the various impressive sights. Imagine how awe-inspiring it must be over 2000 thousand years ago when these immense structures were newly constructed.

Like all of the essential sights in Egypt, Karnak includes a sound and light-weight show that's offered in several different languages. The show takes place three times an evening, but you ought to consult your guide about the available languages of the various showings.

Stroll the sites of the pharaohs of Egypt and find out the ancient temples while visiting the Karnak temples through one amongst our Egypt Nile Cruises.

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.

Egypt is a country that has always fascinated people from all walks of life. From the pyramids of Giza to the Valley of the Kings, Egypt is a land of ancient wonders. And at the heart of it all is the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. This is a place where the past comes to life, and where visitors can experience the richness and complexity of one of the world's oldest civilizations.

Are you planning a trip to Egypt? If so, make sure to add the Kom Ombo Temple to your itinerary. This ancient temple, located in Aswan, is a must-visit destination for history buffs and archaeology enthusiasts. With its unique design, fascinating history, and impressive architecture, the Kom Ombo Temple is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Egypt. In this blog post, we'll explore the secrets of the Kom Ombo Temple and all the fascinating facts that make it a true gem of ancient Egypt.

Introduction to Kom Ombo Temple

The Kom Ombo Temple is a double temple that was built during the Ptolemaic dynasty, around 180-47 BC. It is located on the east bank of the Nile River in the small town of Kom Ombo, about 30 miles north of Aswan. The temple is dedicated to two gods: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon-headed god. The temple is unique in design, with two identical sections, one for each god. Each section has its own entrance, hypostyle hall, and sanctuary. 

Where is Kom Ombo Located?

Kom Ombo is a small town located in Upper Egypt, approximately 45 kilometers north of the city of Aswan. The town sits on the east bank of the Nile River, with the temple of Kom Ombo located right on the river's edge. The temple is easily accessible by car, taxi, or boat, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Nile and surrounding desert landscape.

Who Built the Temple of Kom Ombo?

The temple of Kom Ombo was built during the Ptolemaic dynasty, which ruled Egypt from 305 BC to 30 BC. The temple was dedicated to two gods, Sobek and Horus, and was built on a site that had been sacred to these gods since ancient times. The temple was constructed over a period of several centuries, with different pharaohs and rulers adding their own contributions.

History of Kom Ombo Temple

The history of the Kom Ombo Temple dates back to the time of the Pharaohs. It is believed that the original temple was built during the reign of Ptolemy VI Philometor (180-145 BC), but most of the surviving structures were built during the reign of Ptolemy XIII Neos Dionysos (51-47 BC). The temple was built on the site of an older temple dedicated to the god Sobek, which was destroyed by the Nile flood.

The temple was an important religious center during the Ptolemaic and Roman periods. It was also a center of healing, with a hospital located nearby. The temple was also used for astronomical observations, and the walls of the temple are covered with astronomical scenes and hieroglyphs.

Significance of Kom Ombo Temple

The Kom Ombo Temple is significant for several reasons. It is one of the few double temples still standing in Egypt. It is also the only temple dedicated to the gods Sobek and Horus. The temple is also significant for its historical and cultural significance. The temple is a testament to the advanced engineering and architectural skills of the ancient Egyptians. It is also an important site for the study of ancient Egyptian religion and mythology.

Architecture of Kom Ombo Temple

The Kom Ombo Temple is a masterpiece of ancient Egyptian architecture. The temple is designed in a symmetrical fashion, with two identical sections, one for each god. The temple is built of sandstone and has a series of halls and chambers, including a hypostyle hall, a vestibule, and a sanctuary. The walls of the temple are covered with hieroglyphs, scenes from ancient Egyptian mythology, and astronomical scenes.

The temple also has a number of unique features, including a Nilometer, which was used to measure the level of the Nile River, and a crocodile museum, which houses the mummified remains of crocodiles that were once worshipped in the temple.

Fascinating Facts about Kom Ombo Temple

There are many fascinating facts about the Kom Ombo Temple. For example, the temple was built on the site of an older temple dedicated to the god Sobek, which was destroyed by the Nile flood. The temple is also the only temple in Egypt dedicated to the gods Sobek and Horus. The temple was also an important center of healing during the Ptolemaic and Roman periods, with a hospital located nearby. The walls of the temple are covered with astronomical scenes and hieroglyphs, making it an important site for the study of ancient Egyptian astronomy.

The Kom Ombo Temple Complex

The Kom Ombo Temple is not just a single temple, but a complex of temples, chapels, and other buildings. The temple complex includes the main temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus, as well as a number of other temples dedicated to other gods and goddesses, such as Isis and Anubis.

The temple complex also includes a number of other buildings, such as a hospital, a Nilometer, and a crocodile museum. The complex is surrounded by a wall, and there are a number of courtyards and gardens within the complex.

Mythology Associated with Kom Ombo Temple

The Kom Ombo Temple is associated with several myths and legends from ancient Egyptian mythology. One of the most famous stories is the legend of Horus and Set. According to the legend, Horus and Set were two brothers who battled for control of Egypt. Set killed Horus and cut his body into pieces, but Horus was eventually resurrected by his mother, Isis. The temple is also associated with the god Sobek, who was worshipped as the god of the Nile and the protector of fertility.

Why Was the Temple of Kom Ombo Built?

The temple of Kom Ombo was built to honor the gods Sobek and Horus, who were both important deities in ancient Egyptian religion. Sobek was the crocodile god, revered for his strength and power, while Horus was the god of the sky and kingship. The temple was also believed to have healing powers, and many people came to the temple seeking cures for their ailments.

 
The temple was also an important center of commerce and trade, as it was located on a major trade route that connected Upper Egypt with Nubia and the Red Sea. Merchants and traders would often stop at the temple to offer gifts and prayers to the gods, and to seek their protection and blessings for their journeys.

The Discovery and Restoration of Kom Ombo Temple

The Kom Ombo Temple was rediscovered in the 19th century by French archaeologist Auguste Mariette. The temple was in a state of disrepair, and much of the temple had been destroyed by the Nile flood. Mariette began the process of restoring the temple, but it was not until the 1960s that the temple was fully restored.

Today, the temple is one of the most important archaeological sites in Egypt. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is visited by thousands of tourists every year.

Visiting Kom Ombo Temple - Tips and Guidelines

If you are planning a visit to the Kom Ombo Temple, there are a few things you should keep in mind. The temple is located in the small town of Kom Ombo, about 30 miles north of Aswan. The temple is open to visitors every day from 8 am to 5 pm. It is recommended that you visit the temple early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.

When visiting the temple, it is important to respect the rules and regulations. Do not touch or climb on the ancient structures, and do not take any souvenirs from the site.

Kom Ombo Temple Surroundings

The temple of Kom Ombo is surrounded by several other interesting sites to explore in the area around Kom Ombo. One of the most popular is the temple of Edfu, which is located approximately 50 kilometers to the north. This temple is dedicated to the god Horus and is one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Egypt.

Temple of Kom Ombo Tickets Price and Opening Hours

If you're planning a visit to the temple of Kom Ombo, you'll be pleased to know that it is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The entrance fee for the temple is 140 Egyptian pounds per person (as of 2021), and this includes access to the temple complex and the museum. Visitors can also purchase a combined ticket that includes entry to other nearby sites, such as the temple of Edfu and the Nubian Museum.

Conclusion
The Kom Ombo Temple is a true gem of ancient Egypt. With its unique design, impressive architecture, and fascinating history, the temple is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Egypt. Whether you are a history buff or an archaeology enthusiast, a visit to the Kom Ombo Temple is a must. So, add it to your itinerary and discover the secrets of this iconic temple for yourself! 

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