The Temple of Isis at Dendera is in Upper Egypt, about 60 km north of Luxor. It is part of the vast complex of Dendera, which also includes the Temple of Hathor and other religious structures. The Temple of Isis was built during the Ptolemaic (305-30 BC) and Roman period, with additions and renovations over time.
Architecture of the Temple of Isis
The Temple of Isis at Dendera features architecture characteristic of the Ptolemaic period, with elements borrowed from both Egyptian tradition and Greco-Roman influence:
- Facade: The facade of the temple is decorated with columns with composite capitals, combining elements of Egyptian flora and Greco-Roman motifs.
- Inner courtyard: The temple is surrounded by a paved inner courtyard, lined with columns on three sides.
- Hypostyle Hall: Inside the temple is a hypostyle hall, supported by columns with palm-shaped capitals, typical of Egyptian architecture.
Temple decorations and art
The walls, columns and ceilings of the Temple of Isis are richly decorated with reliefs and inscriptions, illustrating various aspects of Egyptian mythology and religious life:
- Mythological scenes: The reliefs represent the goddess Isis, as well as other Egyptian divinities, in scenes of worship, protection of the pharaohs and religious ceremonies.
- Religious texts: Inscriptions engraved on the walls of the temple contain hymns and prayers addressed to Isis, as well as descriptions of the rites and offerings associated with her worship.
- Astronomical decorations: The ceiling of the temple is decorated with representations of the starry sky and constellations, testifying to the importance of astronomy in Egyptian religion.
The cult of Isis at Dendera
Isis was a major goddess of ancient Egypt, associated with motherhood, magic, and protection. His cult was widespread and had a considerable influence on the religious and cultural life of the time. AT Dendera, the Temple of Isis was an important center of her worship, where priests and worshipers gathered to celebrate festivals and offer sacrifices in her honor.
Visit the temple of Isis in Dendera today
Although less known than the hathor temple, the Temple of Isis at Dendera is a valuable historical and cultural site worth visiting. Tourists can explore the remains of the temple and discover the rich decorations and testimonies of religious life from the Ptolemaic and Roman times.
Average temperatures and climate
Month | ° C | ° F | Weather | Climate |
---|---|---|---|---|
January | 14 | 57 | ☀️ | Sec |
February | 15 | 59 | ☀️ | Sec |
Mars | 19 | 66 | ☀️ | Sec |
April | 24 | 75 | ☀️ | Sec |
May | 29 | 84 | ☀️ | Sec |
June | 32 | 90 | ☀️ | Sec |
July | 34 | 93 | ☀️ | Sec |
August | 34 | 93 | ☀️ | Sec |
September | 31 | 88 | ☀️ | Sec |
October | 28 | 82 | ☀️ | Sec |
November | 22 | 72 | ☀️ | Sec |
December | 16 | 61 | ☀️ | Sec |
Schedules and info
Opening hours: 7 a.m. to 00 p.m. in summer and 18 a.m. to 00 p.m. in winter
Entrance fee: EGP 100 for adults and EGP 50 for students with a valid student card
Average price of a guide: 200 to 300 EGP
Other temples
Philae |
Edfu |