The Temple of Philae, now known as Agilika, is an ancient Egyptian temple based on the island of Philae near Aswan. It was dedicated to the goddess Isis and was one of the last ancient temples in Egypt to remain in use until the arrival of Christianity in the region. The temple was relocated to its current location in the 1960s to avoid flooding from the construction of the Aswan High Dam.
The temple is considered a masterpiece of Egyptian architecture and is famous for its well-preserved reliefs, inscriptions, and monumental gateways. Boats are available for hire, providing a peaceful and scenic way to travel to the temple and other nearby attractions.
How to explore the Temple of Philae?
- Explore the temple ruins by walking through the temple's many halls, chambers, and courtyards. Admire its intricate carvings, sculptures, and hieroglyphics. Get a sense of the scale and grandeur of the ancient temple.
- Read the information plaques and learn about the temple's history, its dedication to the goddess Isis, and its significance in ancient Egyptian religion and culture. The Temple of Philae was a center of worship for the goddess Isis and offered a glimpse into the religious practices and beliefs of ancient Egyptians.
- Admire the views of the Nile and the surrounding desert from the temple's elevated location.
- Walk to the sacred lake near the temple, where the ancient Egyptians believed the goddess Isis was born.
- Capture the stunning views and rich history of the temple through photos.
- Experience a light and sound show that recreates the temple's former glory and provides insights into its history and significance.
- Visit the nearby Nubian village of El-Doula, where you can learn about Nubian culture and tradition.