Temple of Isis, Roman temple in Benevento, Italy
The Temple of Isis is a Roman sanctuary from the 1st century that once housed Egyptian sculptures and monumental art. A columned avenue approached the main shrine, which was surrounded by statues, reliefs, and obelisks imported from Egypt.
The complex was built between 88 and 89 AD under Emperor Domitian as one of the few shrines honoring Eastern religions in Rome. The structure survived for centuries before gradually disappearing in later periods.
The sanctuary blends Roman and Egyptian religious traditions through its sculptures, reliefs, and decorative elements that visitors can see today. These artifacts show how the goddess Isis was honored by people living in this region during ancient times.
The original pieces from the sanctuary are now displayed at the ARCOS Museum in Benevento, where you can explore them directly. The museum houses one of the original obelisks and numerous statues in one convenient location.
It is the only sanctuary of its kind in Europe that used exclusively Egyptian materials and building methods during Roman times. This combination made it an unusual place that reflected Roman fascination with Eastern cultures.
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