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The amazing Temple Complex of Philae

Philae temple complex is one of the most fabulous temples in all of Egypt. It sits 12 km south of Aswan on Aglika Island, downstream of Aswan High Dam and Lake Nasser. Philae temple was located originally near the expansive First Cataract of the Nile in Upper Egypt. It relocated to nearby Agilkia Island between 1972 and 1980 as part of the UNESCO Nubia Campaign project; to protect it from the inevitable sinking after the construction of the High Dam. The massive temple complex was disassembled stone by stone. Then It reconstructed 20m higher on nearby Agilika Island, which was landscaped to resemble the original sacred isle of Isis. It was a massive, and very complicated, project taking over 9 years to be accomplished.



Philae Temple is considered by many to be the last of the ancient temples constructed in the classical Egyptian style. It is one of the many temples throughout Egypt that was built in honor of the goddess Isis. It serves as a remarkable example of the cult that was built around the story of Isis and Osiris.

The temple of Philae is considered to be the most sacred temple on the whole by both Egyptians and Nubians peoples; this is because God Osiris was buried on the island where the temple stood. Priests were the only ones, who were allowed to dwell there; even fish and other aquatic animals never approached the shores of the island.



The monuments of Philae include many structures dating predominantly to the Ptolemaic Period (332–30 BC). The most prominent of these is a temple begun by Ptolemy II Philadelphus (285–246 BC), which he dedicated to Isis. Then other Ptolemaic Kings (Ptolemy’s IV, V, VI, VII, and XI) contributed by adding more parts to the main Temple.

The Philae Temple Sound and Light Show



No matter how much time one spends in Egypt, it seems there is always something new to see and explore. The Sound and Light Show at Philae Temple is one such example. While many visitors pay a visit to the site to explore the temple during daylight hours; many also take advantage of an entertaining and educational option instead – the Philae Temple Sound and Light Show.

The Philae Temple Sound and Light Show is very popular with tourists because it combines the fascination of a historical temple with modern entertainment. This is also considered by many who have experienced it to be an extremely magical show because visitors approach the island after sunset on the water. The lights of the temple and other buildings on the island reflect from the surrounding waters. When the show begins, it is told not by dull narrators but by actors dramatically playing the roles of Isis and Osiris. Guests get to know not only about the temple itself and the history of the site, but they also learn a lot about this folk story from the Ancient Egyptian lore. The show also uses special lighting and sound effects to add to the drama and most of the participants are interested in the overall experience.

So if you have the desire to discover the great ancient Egyptian civilization in this historical monument; then check out our tours from Here