Egyptian attractions

Temple of Karnak

The Temple of Karnak situated just North of Luxor is a fine example of Egyptian history and architecture. Considered the King of all religious buildings, the structure covers over 200 acres and is the largest temple complex built by man. Made up of 3 main temples, several outer temples and smaller enclosed temples, the complex represents a strong image of a generation of ancient building work. The main building is so big in size that it could hold of 61 European Cathedrals, with famous sites such as the Milan Cathedral or St Peters being lost inside its huge shell.

Temple of Luxor

If you plan on visiting the ancient city of Luxor, then the spectacular Temple of Luxor cannot be missed. Located in the centre of the city on the banks of the River Nile, this powerful site was built around 1400BC by King Amenhotep III who dedicated it to Theban Triad Amon-Re, his consort Mut and their son Khonsu.

Its main purpose was to celebrate the festival of Opet, however it has been a truly sacred site since its inception and the place of worship for Christians and Muslims for many centuries. One of the highlights for visitors today is the sacred Mosque built inside and perhaps the best time to visit is at sunset when the Temple is beautifully lit and offers a wonderful reflection of this fabled land.

Temple of Hatshepsut

A temple that plays a significant part in the tale of ancient Egypt, the Temple of Hatshepsut signifies the work of the first female pharaoh; Queen Hatshepsut. A place of forgotten beauty, boasting some of the most outstanding architecture across the land, the temple is known to the Egyptians as ‘Djeser-Djeseru’ – meaning ‘sacred of the sacreds’.

Queen Hatshepsut ruled the land for over two decades and her temple was built on the site considered sacred for over 500 years. The Temple was the product of precision and strategic calculation, and sits just a short distance south of the Valley of the Kings. Visitors today are mesmerised by the scenery and architecture. Carved partially out of a cliff, there are 3 terraced levels that connect to a path which leads directly to Hatshepsut’s tomb in the Valley of the Kind.

Botanical Gardens in Aswan
Take a trip to the Botanical Gardens in Aswan and prepare to explore a different side of Egypt. Situated behind Elephantine Island in Aswan City, this mesmerising attraction is a tropical paradise of interesting flora and fauna. Visitors are invited to wander around the collection of plantlife, most of which comes from tropical Africa, and discover a different kind of enchantment no the banks of the River Nile.

Colossus of Memnon
The Colossi of Memnon are today the only remains of the mortuary temple built for Amenophis III. Standing side by side in a field of corn as if awaiting the rise of the new sun, the two giant quartzile statues, present a fascinating image of a fading Kingdom.

Once originally guarding the gates to the mortuary temple, the Colossi were incorrectly given the name Memnon by the Greeks; who believed they represented the hero Memnon, who Achilles killed in the legendary battle of Troy. Flooding destroyed the rest of this magical structure and its remains have been used in the creation of newer tombs and temples that still exist in ancient Egypt today.

High Dam
Situated between Egypt and Sudan, just south of the City of Aswan, you can find the high dam. Taking 10 years to build, the High Dam is perhaps the biggest change to the River Nile, however its importance is unprecedented. Before the High Dam was built, regular floods to the River Nile would create dramatic problems to Egypt’s landscape. So consequently the High Dam was built to control water flow, with flood water now getting trapped behind the Dam in Lake Nasser, and create a reservoir capable for storing water and preventing droughts

Horus Temple in Edfu
As the most preserved temple in Ancient Egypt, The Horus Temple in Edfu, is an essential attraction for anyone wishing to absorb the country’s main and most magical sights. Built as a dedication to Horus, the Falcon Headed God, the temple sits on the West Bank of the Nile and is a striking example of its period.

Built on the site of the battle between Horus and Seth, the temple took over 180 year period to construct. However its architecture and building work has paid off and it is perhaps the most complete in its collection. As you enter the Temple a magnificent black marble statue greets you at the entrance, with all surface areas covered in the most marvellous example of Egyptian carving and hieroglyphics.

Temple of 2 Gods - Kom Ombo
Without a doubt the most unusual and unique temple in Ancient Egypt; the Temple of Two Gods is the result of two adjacent temples that were built as a dedication to Sobek the Crocodile God and Heroeri the Falcon Headed God; with either side of the Temple a dedicated shrine to their legend.

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