Dendera, Egyptian temple complex in Qena Governorate, Egypt
Dendera is a major temple complex centered on the Temple of Hathor, surrounded by thick mud brick walls that define its boundaries. The site contains multiple rooms and corridors decorated with religious carvings and sacred symbols throughout its chambers.
Work on the Temple of Hathor began in 54 BC during the reign of Ptolemy XII and continued under Roman control. The structure evolved over time as different rulers contributed to its development and decoration.
The temple walls display images of Roman rulers making offerings to the Egyptian goddesses Hathor and other deities worshipped at this site. Visitors walking through the halls can see how these two worlds came together in prayer and ritual.
The temple is straightforward to explore, with clear passages connecting the main halls and underground areas below. Sturdy shoes help when walking on uneven surfaces, and a light is useful for viewing the darker underground chambers.
This site once held a famous zodiac relief that was taken to Paris during the 19th century. The carved image showed the stars and constellations as ancient Egyptians understood them.
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