Background

Abydos: An Ancient Egyptian Pilgrimage Site

Explore Abydos, the ancient Egyptian city and pilgrimage site, home to the Temple of Seti I and the famed Abydos King List.

4.3
A question is required

Abydos, located in Upper Egypt, is one of the most important archaeological sites in Egypt, dating back to the origins of Egyptian civilization. Once a royal necropolis and a center for the worship of the god Osiris, Abydos is now known for the Temple of Seti I, which contains the Abydos King List, a chronological record of pharaohs.

A brief summary to Abydos Egypt

  • 5WMF+93C, El Balyana, Arabet Abeidos, Sohag Governorate, 1610743, EG

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the hot summer months.
  • Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
  • Check the opening hours before you go, as they can vary.
  • Be respectful of the site and its history; avoid touching the reliefs and inscriptions.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Sohag, the closest major city, a taxi is the most direct way to reach Abydos. Taxis can be hired from Sohag city center or the train station. Agree on a fare before starting your journey. The trip is approximately 50 km and should take about 55 minutes. Expect to pay between 50-100 EGP.

  • Public Transport

    From Sohag, take a microbus to Al-Balyana. Microbuses leave from the main bus station in Sohag and cost around 3 EGP. The journey takes approximately one to two hours. From Al-Balyana, take a taxi to Abydos. The taxi ride is short, but confirm the price before starting. Expect to pay around 10-20 EGP.

Unlock the Best of Abydos Egypt

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

q

Discover more about Abydos Egypt

Abydos, situated in Middle Egypt near the city of Al-Balyana, is an ancient and significant archaeological site that was once a royal necropolis and a pilgrimage center dedicated to the worship of Osiris. The city's importance dates back to the early days of Egyptian civilization, with its origins believed to be near Thinis, the first capital of unified Ancient Egypt. This led to the establishment of the first royal necropolis in Umm el-Qa'ab, where pharaohs of the first and second dynasties were born and buried. Abydos is best known for the Temple of Seti I, also called the Great Temple of Abydos, built by Pharaoh Seti I of the 19th Dynasty and completed by his son, Ramesses II. The temple is dedicated to honoring the earlier pharaohs and the major gods of the Egyptian pantheon. Inside the temple, seven chapels are dedicated to Ptah, Ra-Harakhti, Amun-Ra, Osiris, Isis, Horus, and Seti I himself. The temple also houses the Abydos King List, a valuable historical record that lists the cartouches of many dynastic pharaohs of Egypt from Menes to Seti I. Another notable site in Abydos is the Osireion, an ancient Egyptian temple located behind the Temple of Seti I. It is believed to be the mythical tomb of Osiris and features well-preserved reliefs and columns. Abydos is also home to the Umm el-Qa'ab necropolis, the oldest burial ground in Egypt, containing the tombs of early Egyptian kings and queens. Today, Abydos is a major draw for history enthusiasts and anyone seeking to explore the mysteries of ancient Egypt.

Popular Experiences near Abydos Egypt

Popular Hotels near Abydos Egypt

Select Currency