Temples in Aswan

The Philae temple complex is an island-based structure that was built during the reign of Ptolemy ll. Also known as the 'Pearl of Egypt', this mystical temple is dedicated to the goddess Isis and remains the centre of her cult. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is frequented by tourists who seek to explore Aswan’s cultural history. In addition, the Light & Sound Show at Philae Temple is extremely popular.

Located on the banks of the river Nile, the Temple of Kom Ombo is situated in a village that goes by a similar name. This unusual temple of ancient Egypt is dedicated to two deities, Haroeris – the falcon-headed god Horus the Elder and God Sobek –crocodile–headed god, who was also the first known god of the kingdom.

A recognised UNESCO World Heritage site, the Lake Nasser Temple of Kalabsha is one of Egypt's most magnificent archaeological sites. This temple, constructed during the Ptolemaic period, is devoted to a Nubian solar deity called Mandulis by the Greeks and Merwel by the Romans. Later, it was used as a church. Visit this archaeological site to learn more about the history of this region.

The Temple of Horus at Edfu is the second-largest temple in Egypt after Karnak. Built during the Ptolemaic period, it is dedicated to the falcon-headed god Horus. It consists of several grand columns and statues, including the famous statue of the goddess Hathor. Many tourism companies offer a day trip to Edfu from Luxor. Edfu is a usual pit stop on a Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan.

Abu Simbel complex makes for an excellent day-trip location. Abu Simbel is a complex housing two temples, the Great Temple of Ramses II and the Temple of Hathor. It is a 4-hour trip and hiring a taxi from Aswan to Abu Simbel will cost anywhere between TRY 700- 850.

Wadi al-Sebua temple is a complex with two temples, literally translating to the Valley of Lions. Located a 40 km ride south of the High Dam in Aswan, this temple was constructed by Ramesses II and was initially named House-of-Amun. Constructed out of stone blocks, this temple has a sanctuary imbibed into the bedrock; out of the three towers, only two have survived.