Kiosk of Qertassi, Lower Egypt Travel Guide

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Explore the Roman-era Kiosk of Qertassi in Aswan, a relocated gem offering serene Nile views and a glimpse into ancient Nubia's past.

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Kiosk of Qertassi

The Kiosk of Qertassi, a small yet elegant Roman structure dating back to the 1st century CE, stands as a testament to the blend of Egyptian and Roman influences in ancient Nubia. Relocated to New Kalabsha, near the Aswan High Dam, this historical landmark offers visitors a serene glimpse into the past with its intricate carvings and picturesque Nile views.

A brief summary to Kiosk of Qertassi

XV69+32H, Aswan, Aswan Governorate, EG

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kiosk of Qertassi.

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Bring a camera to capture the intricate details of the kiosk and the scenic views of the Nile.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the surrounding area is best explored on foot.

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Explore Kiosk of Qertassi on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Kiosk of Qertassi, mapped for you.

Getting There

Taxi

From Aswan city center, hire a taxi to the Kiosk of Qertassi. Negotiate the fare beforehand, typically around 100-150 EGP for a one-way trip. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Public Transport

From Aswan bus station, take a local bus heading towards Abu Simbel (10-15 EGP). Inform the driver you wish to get off at the Kiosk of Qertassi. The journey takes 30-45 minutes. From the bus stop, follow signs to the kiosk.
Boat

To reach the Kiosk of Qertassi, you will need to take a boat from a semi-abandoned harbor after crossing the Aswan High Dam. Negotiate a price with the local fishermen. A trip to Kalabsha Temple, which includes the Kiosk of Qertassi, may cost around 100-150 EGP for approximately one hour.

Discover more about Kiosk of Qertassi

The Kiosk of Qertassi, located at the New Kalabsha site near Aswan, is a captivating remnant of Roman presence in ancient Egypt. This small, unfinished kiosk, likely built during the early Roman period, showcases a unique blend of Roman architectural styles and Egyptian motifs. Originally situated at the entrance to the Qertassi sandstone quarries, the kiosk served as a tribute to Hathor, the goddess of miners and quarry workers.The kiosk features a square design with a single Hathor court. Once surrounded by fourteen columns connected by screen walls, only six pillars remain today. Among these are the Hathor-headed columns, which honor the goddess and reflect the site's connection to the ancient quarries. The kiosk's roof was constructed using sandstone slabs due to the scarcity of timber in the Nubian region. The Kiosk of Qertassi may have been a part of a processional route used by those who worshiped Isis, and who bore her image to other similar kiosks and temples, including the Temple of Philae, Dendur, and Dabod.Relocated as part of UNESCO's International Campaign to Save the Monuments of Nubia, the Kiosk of Qertassi now resides in New Kalabsha alongside other significant temples and structures. Its current location offers stunning views of Lake Nasser, providing a tranquil setting for visitors to appreciate the artistry and history of this ancient site.