Kiosk of Qertassi, Roman temple near Aswan, Egypt
The Kiosk of Qertassi is a Roman-period temple with four papyrus columns and two Hathor columns at its entrance, built entirely from brown sandstone blocks. The structure has a square footprint and sits near Lake Nasser.
The temple was built in the 1st century AD during Roman times and originally stood at the entrance to sandstone quarries. When Lake Nasser was created, it was relocated to its current location on Kalabsha Island.
The capitals display decorative Hathor heads representing an Egyptian goddess who protected quarry workers in ancient times. This imagery held meaning for the laborers who worked in the nearby stone quarries.
The site is accessible year-round through organized tours departing from nearby Aswan. It is advisable to wear sturdy shoes and bring sun protection, as shade is limited.
Of the original fourteen columns that surrounded the temple, only six remain standing today. These surviving columns endured natural disasters and the flooding from Lake Nasser.
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