The temple of Sobek à Kom Ombo stands out for its dual structure, designed to reflect the balance and harmony between the two deities worshiped within it. This unique design results in architectural symmetry and an equal distribution of sacred spaces:
- Entrance and courtyard: the entrance to the temple leads to an open courtyard lined with columns, which is also divided into two equal parts for the cults of Sobek and Haroëris.
- Hypostyle rooms: two hypostyle rooms, decorated with columns and bas-reliefs, are devoted respectively to Sobek and Haroëris, allowing priests to perform religious rites in honor of the two gods.
- Sanctuaries: at the heart of the temple are two separate sanctuaries, where the statues of the deities were kept and where the offerings were deposited.
Temple decorations and art
The walls and columns of the temple of Kôm Ombo are decorated with reliefs and inscriptions which testify to the artistic richness and the diversity of the themes approached in the Ptolemaic period:
- Mythological scenes: the reliefs represent the gods Sobek and Haroëris, as well as other Egyptian deities, in scenes of worship, combat or protection of the Ptolemaic rulers.
- Medical Inscriptions: Texts engraved on the walls of the temple describe remedies and medical practices, testifying to the advanced medical knowledge of the ancient Egyptians.
- Religious Calendar: Part of the temple features a detailed calendar of religious festivals and events, providing insight into the organization of time and celebrations in Egyptian religious life.
The cult of the sacred crocodiles
The cult of Sobek, the crocodile god, was particularly important in Kom Ombo, due to the presence of crocodiles in the nearby Nile. The sacred crocodiles were revered and pampered in a vivarium near the temple, and after their death they were mummified and buried in dedicated catacombs.
Visit Sobek temple in Kom Ombo today
Kom Ombo Temple is a popular tourist site today, providing visitors with a unique and educational experience. Guided tours allow you to discover the remains of the temple and learn more about the cults of Sobek and Haroëris, as well as the religious and cultural life of the Ptolemaic period.
Climate and average temperatures
Month | ° C | ° F | Weather | Climate |
---|---|---|---|---|
January | 16 | 61 | ☀️ | Sec |
February | 18 | 64 | ☀️ | Sec |
Mars | 22 | 72 | ☀️ | Sec |
April | 27 | 81 | ☀️ | Sec |
May | 32 | 90 | ☀️ | Sec |
June | 35 | 95 | ☀️ | Sec |
July | 37 | 99 | ☀️ | Sec |
August | 37 | 99 | ☀️ | Sec |
September | 34 | 93 | ☀️ | Sec |
October | 29 | 84 | ☀️ | Sec |
November | 23 | 73 | ☀️ | Sec |
December | 18 | 64 | ☀️ | Sec |
Schedules and info
Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 17 p.m. daily
Entrance fee: 80 EGP
Average price of a guide: 150 to 300 EGP
Other temples
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Edfu |