About the Temple of Philae
The Temple of Philae is a marvelous example of the ancient temples of Egypt and the most amazing historical site of the wonderful city of Aswan. El Deak Tours presents the best travel packages in Egypt to fulfill the needs of several tourists with the highest levels of quality and services.
Situated in the Agilkia Island near the High Dam today, the temple, the same as many monuments in Southern Egypt, was relocated after the construction of the High Dam. Many tours to Egypt include a visit to the Temple of Philae.
The history of the Temple of Philae
The term Philae, according to the ancient Greek language means the beloved. Many Temples were actually built on Philae Island for the worship of the goddess Isis, as the island became the center of the worship of this famous god for a long period of time.
The first part of the Temple of Philae was established in the ruling period of Taharqa, one of the Nubian kings that ruled over parts of Egypt during the 7th century BC. A visit to the Temple of Philae is often included in tour packages to Egypt that contain a Nile cruise or a visit to the city of Aswan.
When Christianity was spread in Upper Egypt in the middle of the 5th century AD, many Egyptian Copts resorted to the Island of Philae. Some buildings were transformed into Christian constructions as well.
Most of the temples of Philae were actually constructed in the Greco Roman period in Egypt. The first temple to be built in Philae was erected in the 3rd century BC.
When the High Dam was built in 1971, the water of the River Nile surrounded the Temple of Philae almost all year long. This would be damaging for the stones of the temple.
The Egyptian government suggested the project of relocating the temple to the nearby island of Agilika. The process of this relocation started in 1972 when huge bars of iron were positioned in the River Nile around the temple to prevent more damage from occurring.
The Temple of Philae today
The first part the guests enjoying their holidays in Egypt reach by boat at the Agilika Island, the new location of the Temple of Philae, is the building of Nectanebo III that was built in the 4th century BC. This is actually the most ancient construction in the whole complex.
Afterwards, the guests walk in the garden of god, as many tour guides prefer to name it. This wide-open courtyard is quite fascinating with huge pillars. The stone capital of each of these columns has many different flower-like shapes.
At the end of this courtyard, the temple of Isis, the main construction of the complex is located. This temple was established over a long period of time from the late Ptolemaic period until the Roman era in Egypt.
The first pylon of the temple dedicated for the worship of the goddess Isis was constructed by Ptolemy XIII. The renowned portrait of the king attacking his nemesis characterizes this huge well-preserved pylon.
Another interesting section at the complex of Philae is the small yet charming temple dedicated to the goddess Hathour built in the 2nd century BC. This temple is distinguished with the reliefs of different people performing music. The god, Bes, the god of joy and happiness in ancient Egypt can be seen in many parts of this temple.
0 Comment