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Temple of Khonsu: A Sanctuary of Lunar Worship

Explore the Temple of Khonsu in Luxor's Karnak complex: a testament to ancient Egyptian artistry and lunar worship dedicated to the moon god.

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Nestled within the vast Karnak Temple Complex, the Temple of Khonsu offers a glimpse into ancient Egyptian lunar worship. Built primarily by Ramesses III, it's a remarkably well-preserved example of a New Kingdom temple, dedicated to Khonsu, the moon god.

A brief summary to Temple Of Khonsu

  • PM84+J8F, Luxor, Luxor City, Luxor Governorate, EG

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the temple in a more peaceful setting.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking within the Karnak complex.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the hot summer months.
  • Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the temple.
  • Don't miss the detailed reliefs and inscriptions that narrate the stories of gods, pharaohs, and ancient rituals.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Luxor Temple, head east on Corniche El Nile road. Continue for about 15 minutes until you reach the intersection with Rue El Ahram. Turn left onto Rue El Ahram and walk straight for approximately 10 minutes. The Temple Of Khonsu is located within the Karnak Temple complex. Entry to the Karnak Temple complex is required to access the Temple of Khonsu.

  • Taxi

    Take a taxi from anywhere in Luxor to the Karnak Temple complex. The Temple of Khonsu is located inside the complex. A short taxi ride from Luxor city center to Karnak Temple typically costs between 50-100 EGP. Be sure to negotiate the price before you get in.

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Discover more about Temple Of Khonsu

The Temple of Khonsu, located in the southwest corner of the Karnak Temple Complex in Luxor, is dedicated to Khonsu, the moon god and son of Amun and Mut. Construction of the temple began under Ramesses III (1186-1155 BC) on the site of an earlier 18th Dynasty temple. Subsequent pharaohs, including Ramesses IV, Ramesses XI, Nectanebo II, and Ptolemy IV, contributed to its completion and adornment. This temple exemplifies the classic design of ancient Egyptian religious structures. The temple complex includes a pylon entrance adorned with reliefs, an open courtyard with a colonnade, a hypostyle hall supported by 28 columns, and a sanctuary that once housed the statue of Khonsu. The walls and columns are decorated with reliefs and inscriptions depicting scenes of pharaohs offering gifts to Khonsu and other deities. The ceiling of the hypostyle hall features astronomical scenes, highlighting Khonsu's association with the moon and night sky. Khonsu was believed to have protective and healing powers, and the temple played a central role in his worship. Representations of Khonsu often depict him as a child with a side braid or as a robed figure holding a scepter, crowned by the full moon resting on a crescent. The temple's well-preserved state allows visitors to appreciate the artistry and religious devotion of the ancient Egyptians. Restoration efforts have revealed vivid relief carvings, offering insights into ancient Egyptian cosmology and the role of Khonsu as a lunar deity.

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