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Speos Artemidos: Temple to Pakhet

Explore Speos Artemidos, a rock-cut temple dedicated to the lioness goddess Pakhet, commissioned by Queen Hatshepsut in ancient Egypt.

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Speos Artemidos, or the Cave of Artemis, is an ancient Egyptian temple complex dedicated to the lioness goddess Pakhet. Carved into the cliffs near Beni Hasan, it was commissioned by Queen Hatshepsut during the 18th Dynasty and later embellished by other pharaohs.

A brief summary to Speos Artemidos

  • VVX8+XMV, Abu Qirqas, Minya Governorate, EG

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy a quieter experience.
  • Bring water and wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the site.
  • A police escort is currently required when visiting this site.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Abu Qirqas, you can walk to Speos Artemidos. Head east on the main road for approximately 1.5 kilometers. Look for signs directing you towards historical sites. The walk should take around 20 to 25 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Minya, take a local bus towards Abu Qirqas. Once in Abu Qirqas, you can either walk to Speos Artemidos or hire a taxi for the final leg of the journey. Bus fares are typically inexpensive.

  • Taxi

    From Minya, a taxi can take you directly to Speos Artemidos. Negotiate the fare before starting the journey. The cost will vary depending on the distance and negotiation, but expect to pay approximately 50-100 EGP.

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Discover more about Speos Artemidos

Speos Artemidos, located in the Minya Governorate, is a rock-cut temple dedicated to the lioness goddess Pakhet, whom the Greeks associated with Artemis. The temple is situated about 2km south of the Middle Kingdom tombs at Beni Hasan, approximately 28 km south of Al Minya, in a village now known as Istabl Antar. This historical landmark offers a glimpse into the architectural and religious practices of ancient Egypt. The temple was constructed by Queen Hatshepsut of the 18th Dynasty, with further additions by Thutmose III and Seti I. Hatshepsut's temple includes a long dedicatory text denouncing the Hyksos rulers and highlighting her efforts to restore order. The temple consists of two chambers connected by a short passageway. The outer portico once had eight columns, but only a few remain intact. The smaller inner sanctuary features a statue niche. Decorations and inscriptions, though worn, depict Hatshepsut making offerings to Pakhet. Seti I later replaced Hatshepsut's name with his own in some areas. Today, Speos Artemidos provides a serene escape with views of the surrounding landscape. While perhaps lesser-known than other Egyptian monuments, its historical significance and tranquil setting make it a worthwhile visit.

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