If you’re interested in learning all about what you can expect from a visit to the Philae Temple in Egypt and why it’s important, read on!
Overview:
Philae Temple origins
The temple at Philae is dedicated to Isis, the goddess of magic. It was originally located on a smaller nearby island, but when the original Aswan Dam was built, it was subject to flooding. In fact, at certain times of the year you could row right into the temple! Thus, during the 1960s, UESCO began a massive international effort to relocate Philae Temple stone by stone to its current location on Agilkia Island, about 500 metres from its original site in Egypt.
The journey to Philae Temple
Catching a boat to Agilkia Island
Photo by Dennis Bunnik
You can reach Philae by boat; the ride is just long enough for the Nubian boatmen to offer some of their local handmade crafts and to enjoy the beautiful scenery. On the island itself, hawkers are not permitted. The Temple of Isis is also surrounded by the pristine blue river, which adds to its peaceful and serene nature.
Discovering the ancient carvings at Philae Temple
Photo by Dennis Bunnik
The carvings of the hieroglyphics are equal to those of the other major temples, but somehow they seem more beautiful. And, there certainly seems to be more images of goddesses here, rather than gods. Hathour, the goddess of beauty who has the head of a cow, can be seen everywhere. The theory was that the larger the eyes, the more beautiful the woman – and as cows had large eyes they were the symbol of beauty. Just don’t try calling a woman a cow today!
Our Egyptologist guide, Eman, showed us her favourite parts of the temple and explained the story of Isis, the mother of the falcon god, named Horus. She also showed us a spectacular monument that was carved into the side of the temple, designed for British soldiers who were stationed nearby in the 1800s and died of cholera.
Soaking in the incredible views over the Nile River
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Photo by Annelieke Huijgens
After a short while, Eman told us each to go our own way, in the nicest possible terms, because this is a temple that you really just want to soak up. Wandering through the courtyard, past numerous columns, it’s easy to escape the crowds and just take it all in. Around every corner, you have the most beautiful views over the Nile.
On the far side of the island, looking back over the original site of Philae, is a small coffee shop. The coffee was excellent and I could have sat there all afternoon! This concluded our visit to the Temple complex of Philae. The intriguing history, paired with the incredible architecture and stunning views, made this trip well worth it!
Discover Philae for yourself on a tour with Bunnik Tours
Interested in discovering the ancient ruins of Egypt? Now is the best time to put this spectacular site on your bucket list! Join us on one of our Egyptian small group tours today. If you have any questions about our Egypt & Middle East tours, please contact one of our friendly Travel Specialists today on 1800 286 645.
Philae Temple FAQs
Why is the Temple in Philae so important?
The temple is an important site as it is dedicated to Isis, the goddess of healing, birth, and magic, as well as Osiris and Horus. The Philae Temple is also one of the last temples that practised Egyptian religion, before it was converted to a Christian church in the sixth century during the reign of Justinian.
Discover more about the Philae Temple and other things to do in Aswan.
Why was the Philae Temple destroyed?
The Aswan Low Dam, which was completed on the Nile River in 1902, had the potential to submerge the temple in flood water. The height of the dam was raised twice, resulting in Philae Island almost always being flooded. The temple was then relocated from Philae Island to Agilkia Island, the transfer itself taking place between 1977 and 1980.
What's the best way to get to Philae Temple?
The best way to get to the iIsland is by taking the official boats from the Marina Philae Temple to Agilkia Island. We visit Philae Temple on all of our Egypt small group tours, so everything is taken care of for you!
