Temple of Edfu

The Temple of Edfu is a sandstone structure filled with carved walls depicting gods, pharaohs, and religious scenes across its interior chambers and courtyards. The building features towering columns, multiple rooms, and a central sanctuary where priests performed daily rituals.

Construction began in the 3rd century BC under Ptolemaic rulers and took around 200 years to complete. The extended building period reflects how ambitious the project was and the resources invested by successive pharaohs to honor Horus.

The walls display scenes of religious processions and offerings to the falcon-headed god Horus and the sacred ceremonies people performed there. Walking through the inner chambers, visitors can observe how ancient Egyptians illustrated their devotion and religious beliefs in stone.

The site is best visited in early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler and the stone is easier to walk on. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes, as the ground is uneven and stairs lead up into the higher chambers.

After its completion, the structure vanished under layers of sand and silt for many centuries, which actually protected the carvings and paintings inside from being worn away. Archaeologists uncovered it in the 1800s and today visitors can still see the original colors and details on the walls.

Location: Edfu

Location: Aswan Governorate

Elevation above the sea: 86 m

Height: 36 m

Length: 137 m

Width: 79 m

Made from material: sandstone

GPS coordinates: 24.97778,32.87333

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:00