The Karnak complex is one of the most important archaeological sites of ancient Egypt, located on the east bank of the Nile, near the present city of Luxor (formerly Thebes). The complex covers a huge area of around 200 hectares, and it is often considered the largest religious complex ever built.
1. History of the Karnak Complex
The Karnak complex was built and developed over a period of over 2000 years by a series of Egyptian pharaohs. The site was dedicated to the Theban triad of Amun, Mut and Khonsu, with Amun in particular being worshiped as the king of the gods. The Karnak complex includes three main enclosures, each dedicated to one of these deities.
Construction of Karnak began during the Middle Kingdom (c. 2050-1710 BC), but most of the structures still visible today date from the New Kingdom (c. 1550-1070 BC). ). During this period, Thebes was the capital of Egypt and the center of the worship of Amun. The pharaohs continually added to and modified the complex to reflect their devotion to Amun and their own greatness.
2. Architecture and structure of the Karnak complex
The Karnak complex is divided into three main enclosures: the great temple of Amun-Re, the temple of Mut and the temple of Khonsu. There is also a series of smaller temples and shrines, as well as sacred lakes and avenues of sphinxes, which connect the Karnak complex to the nearby Luxor temple.
3. The religious significance of the Karnak complex
As the center of the cult of Amun-Re, the Karnak complex played a central role in Egyptian religion. Amun-Ra was considered the king of the gods and was worshiped as the creator of the universe. The New Kingdom pharaohs identified their rule with Amun-Re, which enhanced their legitimacy and power. Religious processions were an important feature of this cult, the most famous being the Opet festival, during which the statue of Amun was carried from the Karnak complex to the Luxor temple.
4. Discovery and archaeological excavations
The Karnak complex was rediscovered in XVIIIe century by European travelers and researchers. However, it is only at XIXcentury that systematic excavations began. Since then, the complex has been the subject of numerous excavations and restorations. Egypt established the Antiquities Service in 1858 to protect and conserve historical sites, and the Karnak complex was one of the first sites to be protected.
Many discoveries have been made at Karnak, including obelisks, statues and stelae. One of the most important finds was the “Hide of Karnak”, a collection of almost 800 statues and stelae found hidden in the floor of the Temple of Amun-Re at the beginning of the XXe century.
5. The Karnak complex today
Today, the Karnak complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction in Egypt. Thousands of visitors come every year to see the impressive ruins and learn about the history and culture of ancient Egypt. The site also hosts a nightly sound and light show that tells the story of the complex.
In summary, the Karnak complex is not only an archaeological treasure, but also a living witness to the history of ancient Egypt. It continues to fascinate scholars and visitors with its size, complexity and majestic beauty, while offering priceless insight into the religion, art and culture of one of history's greatest civilizations. .