Temple of Philae

Relocating the Temple

Following the construction of the High Dam, which threatened to drown it permanently, the temple was relocated to its current location. Since antiquity, Aswan has served as southern Egypt's strategic and commercial gateway. It includes massive ancient structures such as the Philae temple complex, which is located on Agilkia Island near the Aswan Dam. The columned Temple of Isis, dating from the 4th century, is among the remains of Philae.

Sailing the Nile

This beautiful temple complex is one of the most gorgeous in Egypt. It is located on Aglika Island, just south of the historic Aswan Dam can be reached by water taxi. Following the construction of the High Dam, which threatened to drown it permanently, the temple was relocated to its current location. Since antiquity, Aswan has served as southern Egypt's strategic and commercial gateway. It includes massive ancient structures such as the Philae temple complex, which is located on Agilkia Island near the Aswan Dam. The columned Temple of Isis, dating from the 4th century, is among the remains of Philae. Aswan is known for its beautiful Nile Valley beauty, extensive ancient monuments, and peaceful atmosphere. Aswan is derived from the old Egyptian term "Soun," which refers to a souk or market. The city has acquired its reputation as a crucial southern gateway over the centuries, it was once the primary source of granite for obelisks and sculptures. It boasts a hot climate all year long, making it an excellent year-round vacation spot.  The city offers spectacular views and perspectives for felucca sailing on the Nile (Egyptian sailboat). The river runs from Lake Nasser, past a variety of islands, and is flanked by black rock and lush vegetation. Sailing to historic monuments like Philea, the Elephantine Island, Aswan Museum, Agha Khan Mausoleum, St. Simeon Monastery, and the Botanical Island allows you to learn about Aswan's rich history and culture. 

Traditional Customs of Aswan

Beadwork, tablecloth manufacture, leaf art, as well as clay and needle-painting goods, are among the city’s traditional crafts. According to folk traditions and customs, at local rituals such as weddings, funerals, and other important events, such clothing and jewelry are presented.

History of Temple of Philae

The Temple of Philae was the last temple built in traditional Egyptian architecture, and it was built to honor the goddess Isis. Construction of the temple began around 690 BC, and it became one of the last outposts where Isis was worshipped. Philae Island became a rocky island in the middle of the Nile River, south of Aswan. It became known as "Apo" in Hieroglyphic, which means "Ivory." It was also known as "Elephantine" by the Greeks, most likely because it became an important center of trade, primarily for ivory. Egilica became the name of the new island, which had been completely remodeled to resemble Philae Island as closely as possible. To begin, a cofferdam was built across the temple, and the water was drained. The temple was then deconstructed and moved from the flooded Philea Island to the reconstructed Egilica Island, stone by stone. Each stone had to be numbered before being reinstalled in the same spot on the new site. It grew into a vast and extremely difficult undertaking that took nine years to complete. In 1980, the Temple of Philae was finally reopened!

Activities in Philae Temple

You can ride a cruise in the direction of Agelika Island, where the Temple of Philae Aswan is. Once you reach it, you may take a few pics and bask in its picturesque nature. Take a walking tour through Philae's vast complex of temples, which is distinguished by its architectural style and encompasses the majority of Agelica's island. Philae temple sound and light  show  The temple was built in the new country's structural style, with a few elements from the Greco-Roman period. It includes two pylons; the primary pylon holds towers, the Mamisi, and an open forecourt leading to the second pylon, which holds a grand Hypostyle Hall with 10 columns and 3 vestibules that lead to the primary sanctuary of Goddess Isis. The temple had chapels for deities like Osiris, Horus, and Hathor, plus monuments for the Roman duration, just like the Kiosk of Trajan, and small temples in its proximity, just like the Temple of Augustus. The temple served as the final resting place for the historical Egyptian faith after the arrival of Christianity until 550 A.D., when the early Christians converted the temple to a church and defaced and destroyed a number of the statues of the historical gods. However, the temple survived to tell the tale until our modern-day, and it can mirror the surprise of the vintage in the best manner. The temple has been threatened since the completion of the Aswan Low Dam in 1902, which caused the water levels to rise, causing the entire temple to be inundated and possibly drowned and displaced over time. UNESCO launched a rescue mission to save this priceless piece of artwork by relocating it to a new place.

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