Aswan, Egypt
Building in Egypt
The Temple of Kalabsha, or Temple of Mandulis, originally stood at Bab al-Kalabsha about 50 km south of Aswan. In the 1960s it was moved, over two years, under the International Campaign to Save the Monuments of Nubia, and rebuilt on the west shore of Lake Nasser near the High Dam. Since 1979 it has been part of the Nubian Monuments from Abu Simbel to Philae World Heritage Site. It was built around 30 BC under the emperor Augustus, over an earlier sanctuary of Amenhotep II, and dedicated to Mandulis, a Lower Nubian sun god; it was never finished. At 76 by 22 metres it is regarded as one of the best examples of Egyptian architecture in Nubia, with fine reliefs such as Horus emerging from the reeds on the inner wall. An internal stair leads up to the roof and a wide view over the lake. Later inscriptions on the walls include that of the Nubian king Silko recording his victories over the Blemmyes. The same site holds the small rock temple of Beit el-Wali built for Ramesses II, the Kiosk of Qertassi and the rebuilt parts of Gerf Hussein.
Reach it by boat from the landing near the High Dam; agree the fare and waiting time first. Allow one and a half to two hours for the whole site, and do not miss Beit el-Wali with its painted reliefs. Mornings are best, and the site is quiet. Climb to the roof if it is open for the lake view.
Hours and prices change — check before you go. Source: en.wikipedia.org
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AttractionAswan, Egypt
