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Edfu Temple: A Sanctuary of Horus

Explore Edfu Temple, the remarkably preserved sanctuary dedicated to Horus, revealing Ptolemaic Egypt's rich mythology and architecture.

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Edfu Temple, also known as the Temple of Horus, is one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Egypt. Located on the west bank of the Nile River in Edfu, it was built between 237 and 57 BC during the Ptolemaic Kingdom. The temple is dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god of the sky.

A brief summary to Edfu Temple

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially if you are not part of a Nile cruise.
  • Hire a guide to enhance your visit and gain insights into the temple's history and mythology.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the temple complex.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the summer months, as temperatures can be high.
  • Photography with mobile phones is free, but check for any restrictions on using professional equipment.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Edfu city center or the train station, a taxi or tuk-tuk is the most convenient way to reach Edfu Temple, located about 4 km away. Negotiate the fare beforehand, which should be around 30-50 EGP. The ride takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

  • Horse-drawn Carriage

    For a traditional experience, consider taking a horse-drawn carriage (caleche) from the Nile cruise docks or the city center. Agree on a price before starting the ride, aiming for 150-200 EGP for a round trip. Ensure the agreed time allows for a thorough visit to the temple.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Edfu town, you can walk to the temple. From most points in the town center, it is a relatively straightforward walk. Follow the main roads towards the temple; it's well-signposted. Be prepared for some uneven surfaces and potential touts along the way.

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Discover more about Edfu Temple

Edfu Temple, dedicated to the falcon god Horus, stands as one of Egypt's most remarkably preserved ancient sanctuaries. Constructed during the Ptolemaic dynasty between 237 and 57 BC, its well-maintained state offers a captivating glimpse into the architectural and religious practices of the time. The temple's construction spanned approximately 180 years, beginning during the reign of Ptolemy III and concluding under Ptolemy XII. The temple's significance extends beyond its architectural grandeur. Ancient Egyptians believed it was built on the very site where the epic battle between Horus and Seth unfolded. The detailed inscriptions and reliefs adorning the walls provide invaluable insights into the language, mythology, and religious beliefs of the Hellenistic period in Egypt. These inscriptions also offer a comprehensive understanding of the temple's construction and its symbolic interpretation. Approaching the temple, visitors are greeted by towering pylons, reaching a height of 36 meters, adorned with scenes depicting Ptolemy XII triumphing over his enemies. Two imposing granite statues of Horus, represented as a falcon, stand guard at the entrance. Inside, a peristyle court lined with intricately decorated columns leads to the hypostyle halls, where scenes of the king engaged in worship and Horus's journey in a sacred bark are depicted. The temple also features sanctuaries and chapels, including a barque sanctuary surrounded by nine chapels and an inner sanctuary housing the naos of Nectanebo II. For centuries, the temple lay buried beneath layers of sand and silt, which contributed to the preservation of its architectural and decorative elements. Rediscovered in the 1860s by French archaeologist Auguste Mariette, the temple has since become a major tourist destination and a frequent stop for Nile River cruises.

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