Edfu Temple is the second largest temple in Egypt after Karnac. Its architectural treasures and its dimensions make this temple, built in honor of Horus, one of the main monuments of ancient Egypt.
History and discovery of the temple
The Edfu Temple was built during the Ptolemaic period, between 237 and 57 BC. J.-C., and it is the result of nearly 180 years of work. This exceptionally well-preserved temple was rediscovered in 1860 by French Egyptologist Auguste Mariette. For centuries, the temple was buried under dwellings and 12 meters of sand, which made it possible to preserve many intact frescoes and sculptures.
Architecture and remarkable elements
The Temple of Edfu is designed according to a classic plan of Egyptian temples, with a monumental entrance, a courtyard, a hypostyle hall, sanctuaries and various secondary chapels. Here are some of the temple's most notable features:
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The front door: This imposing gate 35 meters high is flanked by two massive pylons, on which are carved scenes representing the pharaoh defeating his enemies. Two statues ofHorus in granite, 3,5 meters high, stand on either side of the entrance.
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The peristyle courtyard: Once past the entrance, you enter a large open-air courtyard surrounded by columns with papyriform capitals. This courtyard was used for religious ceremonies.
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The Hypostyle Hall: This impressive room is made up of 12 massive columns that support the ceiling. The walls are decorated with reliefs and sacred texts.
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The shrine: At the heart of the temple is the sanctuary, where the golden statue of the god Horus was kept. This room was reserved for the clergy and the pharaoh.
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frescoes and inscriptions: The walls of the temple are covered with frescoes and inscriptions that tell the story of the god Horus and his worship, as well as daily life in ancient Egypt.
Visit of the temple and practical advice
Edfu Temple can be reached by boat, train or car from Luxor or Aswan. It is open to visitors all year round, but it is recommended to visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and the crowds. Don't forget to pack a hat, water and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Climate and temperatures in Edfu
Month | (° C) | (° F) | Climate | Humidity |
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January | 19 | 66.2 | ☀️ | Sec |
February | 21 | 69.8 | ☀️ | Sec |
Mars | 25 | 77 | ☀️ | Sec |
April | 29 | 84.2 | ☀️ | Sec |
May | 33 | 91.4 | ☀️ | Sec |
June | 36 | 96.8 | ☀️ | Sec |
July | 35 | 95 | ☀️ | Sec |
August | 35 | 95 | ☀️ | Sec |
September | 33 | 91.4 | ☀️ | Sec |
October | 30 | 86 | ☀️ | Sec |
November | 25 | 77 | ☀️ | Sec |
December | 20 | 68 | ☀️ | Sec |
Rates and Info
Admission price: 60 EGP
Price of a guided tour : Between 70 and 200 euros depending on the guide