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Temple of Maharraqa: A Nubian Gem

Explore the Temple of Maharraqa in Aswan, a unique blend of Egyptian and Roman history with a rare spiral staircase.

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The Temple of Maharraqa, dating back to the Greco-Roman period, is a small temple dedicated to Isis and Serapis. Relocated due to the Aswan High Dam project, it features a unique spiral staircase, a rarity in Nubian temples, and offers a glimpse into ancient Egyptian and Roman cultural fusion.

A brief summary to Temple of Maharraqa

  • RG2X+729, Unnamed Road, Aswan, Aswan Governorate, EG

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the beautiful lighting for photographs.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking on uneven surfaces around the temple.
  • Bring water and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected from the sun during your visit.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to enrich your understanding of the temple's history and significance.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Temple of Maharraqa via public transport, take a microbus or taxi from Aswan city center towards the Aswan-Cairo Desert Road. The fare should be around 10-20 EGP. From there, look for a minibus heading towards the 'Unnamed Road' that leads to the temple. The fare for this leg is approximately 5-10 EGP. Get off at the appropriate stop and walk about 1 km down the 'Unnamed Road' to the temple.

  • Taxi

    Hire a taxi from Aswan to the Temple of Maharraqa. Agree on a fare before starting the journey; it typically costs around 100-150 EGP for a round trip, depending on negotiation skills and time spent at the temple. The taxi will take you directly to the entrance.

  • Car

    If traveling by car, start from Aswan city center. Head southeast on Corniche Road, continuing for approximately 10 kilometers until the junction with the road leading to the Temple of Maharraqa. Look for signs indicating 'Temple of Maharraqa'. The final stretch requires navigating an unnamed road. Parking is usually available nearby.

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Discover more about Temple of Maharraqa

The Temple of Maharraqa, located in the Aswan Governorate, offers a serene escape into ancient Egyptian history. This Graeco-Roman temple, dedicated to Isis and Serapis, stands as a testament to the cultural interactions of the era. Originally situated 40 km north of its current location, the temple was moved in the 1960s as part of UNESCO's efforts to save Nubian monuments from the rising waters of Lake Nasser caused by the Aswan High Dam. Though small, the Temple of Maharraqa boasts a unique architectural feature: a spiral staircase leading to the roof, a design uncommon in Egyptian Nubian temples. The temple's incomplete state and simple design, featuring a hall with columns, offer a unique glimpse into Roman-era temple construction in Egypt. The walls bear intricate carvings and hieroglyphs, narrating tales of gods and pharaohs, providing insights into the spiritual and cultural life of ancient Egypt. Visitors can witness the stunning interplay of light during sunrise and sunset, casting shadows across the stone structure and enhancing its mystical ambiance. The temple's location amidst the desert landscape provides a tranquil environment for reflection. Often less crowded than other historical sites, it allows for a more intimate and personal experience.

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