A Collection of Egyptian Temples

Temples played an important role for ancient Egyptians who used the structures as a way to pay homage to gods and goddesses, worship their pharaoh, and perform rituals. Scattered throughout the country, there are examples , some well preserved while others are in ruins. In this article, you will learn about some of the temples that were built during ancient times.

Karnak Temple Complex , In Karnak, the most famous of temples is the Temple of Amun. The ruined temples are joined by chapels, pylons, and other buildings from the ancient past. The sweeping site was started by Ramses II. In the past, the temples at Karnak and Luxor were originally connected by an avenue of sphinxes that stretched for two miles.

The temple site was well used by the pharaohs. Nearly every pharaoh attached to the dynasty in which the complex thrived added something. Merenptah used the site to commemorate his triumph over the Sea Peoples , the walls of the Cachette Court displayed a remembrance of his victories. The Court marked the beginning of the processional route to the Luxor Temple.

Edfu Temple , One of the best-preserved Egyptian temples is Edfu, which is the second largest after Karnak. Dedicated to the falcon headed god Horus, building the temple started in 237 BC and was completed in 57 BC. Constructed during the reigns of six Ptolemies, the temple is still visible today.

Luxor Temple , Built by Amenhotep III and Ramses II, the Temple of Luxor was dedicated to the gods Amun Ra and Horus. It was a huge structure that was situated on the east bank of the Nile River. During ancient times, the city was known as Thebes, but is now called Luxor. Work on the temple started during the reign of Amenhotep III in the 14th century BC. Columns, statues, and friezes were added when Horemheb and Tutankhamun.

Temple at Deir el Bahari , Located on the west bank of Luxor, this site served as a mortuary temple of Hatshepsut. The Great Steward of Amun (also known as Sennemut) was responsible for the construction of the temple, which was dedicated to the god Amun.

Temples of Ramses and Nefertiti , At Abu Simbel, you will find well known temples. The Temple of Nefertari was dedicated to the goddess Hathor. Ramses II built the temple to honor his wife.

Temples of Philae , The Ptolemaic pharaohs built the Temples of Philae, which can be found at Agilika Island.

Temple of Kom-Ombo , Located at Kom-Ombo, this temple was the handiwork of Ptolemy VI, who dedicated it to the god Sobek.

Sun Temple , Representing one of the earliest surviving cult temples, the Sun Temple has a history traced back to the Old Kingdom. The temples are associated with the 5th-dynasty kings at Abu Ghurab.