Journey to the Philae Temple

This is another phenomenon that the World Heritage has done, they have rescued yet another temple from completely drowning in an island in Philae, Egypt, to nearby island, now renamed Philae. They literally numbered each piece then moved them and reassembled them back in the same relative position like a jigsaw puzzle and the whole thing took place between 1972 and 1980. –Simply fascinating!

A bit of history behind our journey today, Philae in Greek means ‘the end’ –signifying the southernmost limit of Egypt. And Philae temple was first built by Pharaoh Napktnebef Kheperkare (Nectanebo I) purely dedicated for Isis, the mother of god. Isis is an important figure in the Egyptian ancient world.  She is often associated with the funeral rites as an enchantress who resurrected Osiris and gave birth to Horus, the owl. She is also known as the giver of life, a healer, and protector of kings. That is why in many temples throughout Egypt, one would see Isis in the walls’ inscription.

What is so special about this temple? It has gone thru minimum of two different civilizations –the Egyptian and the Roman. During the roman time in Egypt, some of the chambers were converted for Christian worship.

Enough talks as pictures tell thousand words ….

Your ticket --without it, you will be left swimming in the island :-)

The view from the boat ...

Check out the details of the architecture ...

Horus, the god, son of Isis

Isis --the furthest left

Lotus, symbolizing the Sun and creation

Inscription in wall --describing offering

A proof that we were there :-)

The front view of the Philae Temple

Can you tell I love columns ?

Let's see if I can move it to the US! :-)

Last glimpse of the temple before heading out ...

Hm .. this reminds me of Greece ... simply lovely!

Have a nice weekend and hope you enjoy this journey!

Until next stop,

 Journey of Life