Philae temple

 The Temple of Philae, nestled on a small island in the Nile near Aswan, is one of the most romantic and beautifully located temples in Egypt. Originally built during the Ptolemaic period (starting in the 3rd century BCE) and expanded under Roman rule, it was dedicated to Isis, one of the most beloved deities in the ancient Egyptian pantheon.



Isis was worshipped as the goddess of magic, motherhood, healing, and protection. Pilgrims traveled from across the Mediterranean world to visit Philae, making it one of the last active temples of ancient Egyptian religion. Remarkably, it remained a place of worship until the 6th century AD, when it was finally closed under the Christian Byzantine Empire. Check our day tours offers!

Relocation and Preservation

In the 20th century, the construction of the Aswan High Dam posed a major threat to Philae. Its original location was flooded by the rising waters of Lake Nasser, submerging it for much of the year.

Thanks to a massive international rescue project led by UNESCO in the 1970s, the entire temple complex was carefully dismantled and relocated to the nearby island of Agilkia, just a few hundred meters away. Stone by stone, it was rebuilt, preserving its stunning architecture and atmosphere.

Today, Philae is not just a testament to ancient devotion, it’s also a symbol of global heritage preservation. Check our travel packages offers!



Architecture and Layout

Philae Temple blends Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences, reflecting its long and layered history.

Key Features:

  1. The First Pylon: A dramatic gateway with scenes of Ptolemaic pharaohs making offerings to Isis and Horus, flanked by towers once connected by a great wooden door.
  2. Forecourt and Colonnades: Lined with elegant columns and reliefs of gods and goddesses, this area leads into the heart of the temple.
  3. Inner Sanctuary of Isis: The holiest part of the temple, where a statue of Isis was once enshrined. Pilgrims would bring offerings here in hopes of healing or protection.
  4. Birth House (Mammisi): Decorated with scenes of the divine birth of Horus, emphasizing the myth of Isis as mother and protector.
  5. Trajan’s Kiosk: A freestanding pavilion by the water, built by the Romans and often referred to as “Pharaoh’s Bed.” It’s one of the most photographed structures on the island.
  6. Christian Chapels and Coptic Crosses: Later additions by early Christians who reused parts of the temple for worship, adding a layer of spiritual continuity.

Religious and Mythological Significance

Philae was considered the burial place of Osiris in myth, and it became one of the most sacred sites in the cult of Isis. The temple played a vital role in preserving traditional Egyptian religion even as Christianity spread throughout the empire.

Even after state support for the ancient gods ended, Isis remained a powerful symbol, her worship spread far beyond Egypt to Greece and Rome. Check our Nile Cruise offers!

Visiting Philae Temple

  • Location: On Agilkia Island, near Aswan
  • Access: Only reachable by boat, typically a short ride from the Philae Marina
  • Opening Hours: 7 AM to 4 PM (varies seasonally)
  • Tickets: Required; includes the boat ride (usually arranged through tours or at the dock)
  • Photography: Allowed; best light is in the morning or late afternoon

Tips for Visitors

  • Bring small change, boatmen and local vendors may not have change for large bills
  • Wear good shoes, you’ll walk over uneven stones and stairs
  • Visit early or at sunset, fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
  • Hire a guide to explain the mythological scenes and symbols, there’s a lot of rich detail you might miss on your own
  • Consider the Sound & Light Show, offered in the evenings, it’s a beautiful way to experience the temple at night

Check our website for booking special vacation offers!

Why Visit Philae Temple?

Philae Temple offers a magical blend of myth, beauty, and resilience. Set against the glittering waters of the Nile, it’s one of the most picturesque temples in Egypt, a place where history feels alive and the legacy of Isis still lingers in the air.

Whether you’re drawn by the mythology, the architecture, or the incredible story of its rescue, a visit to Philae is a must for anyone exploring southern Egypt. Reserve now with Egypt trips package and check our travel packages, day tours and nile cruises special offers!

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