Exploring Ancient Egypt’s Treasures
If you’re planning a trip to Egypt, make time for exploring the country’s myriad ancient treasures. The civilization of Ancient Egypt lasted for more than 3,000 years, during which time its rulers made their mark upon their kingdoms with a series of increasingly impressive monumental building projects. The architects of Ancient Egypt were so advanced that today, many of these monuments still survive – some of them in remarkably good condition. For thousands of years, the pyramids, temples, and sphinxes of the long-gone pharaohs have acted as an irresistible draw for visitors from all over the world.
Pyramids of Giza
Address: Al Haram, Nazlet El-Semman, Al Haram, Giza Governorate 3512201, Egypt
Located on the outskirts of Cairo, Giza comprises three different pyramid complexes: the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure. The Great Pyramid is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and remains the only one still standing today. Each complex houses the tomb of a different Egyptian pharaoh, with the Sphinx, whose Arabic name translates to “Father of Terror,” lying in front. This impressive sculpture is carved from a single block of stone. Giza’s pyramids and the Sphinx were constructed approximately 4,500 years ago during Egypt’s Old Kingdom, believed to require 20,000 laborers and two million blocks of stone for the Pyramid of Khufu alone.
Karnak Temple Complex
Address: Karnak, Luxor, Luxor Governorate, Egypt
Phone: +20 2 22617304
The Karnak Temple Complex was known as “the most select of places,” dedicated to the worship of the King of all Gods, Amun-Ra. Built over approximately 1,500 years, from Senusret I to the Ptolemaic period, it served as the most important place of worship for ancient Thebans. The ruins sprawl across a vast area over 240 acres, housing spectacular temples, chapels, kiosks, pylons, and obelisks dedicated to Theban gods. The second largest ancient religious complex, the Hypostyle Hall in the Great Temple of Amun, is considered one of the world’s architectural masterpieces.
Temple of Luxor
Address: Luxor City, Luxor, Luxor Governorate 1362501, Egypt
The Temple of Luxor sits on the east bank of the Nile in the heart of ancient Thebes, now Luxor. Construction began under the New Kingdom pharaoh Amenophis III around 1392 BC and was completed by Ramesses II. The temple served to celebrate festivals and rituals, including the annual Theban festival of Opet, during which statues of Amun-Ra, his wife Mut, and their child Khonsu were carried from Karnak to Luxor in a procession symbolizing marriage and fertility. The temple has survived through various eras, beautifully illuminated at night, making sunset visits particularly enchanting.
Valley of the Kings
Address: Luxor, Luxor Governorate 1340420, Egypt
From the 16th to the 11th century BC, Egyptian pharaohs abandoned pyramids in favor of the Valley of the Kings for burial. Located opposite Luxor on the west bank of the River Nile, this valley is the resting place for mummified pharaohs, along with their beloved pets and sacred artifacts. The tomb of Tutankhamun is most renowned, with over 64 discovered tombs and chambers in the valley. The Valley of the Queens lies at the southern end, featuring tombs of queens and their children, including Queen Nefertari, the wife of Ramesses II.
Abu Simbel
Address: Abu Simbel, Aswan Governorate 1211501, Egypt
Phone: +20 2 22617304
Abu Simbel is one of the ancient world’s most recognizable monuments, originally carved into a solid rock cliff during the reign of Ramesses II to commemorate his victory over the Hittites at the Battle of Kadesh. The Great Temple features four colossal statues of Ramesses, each measuring 98 feet (30 meters). The Small Temple honors Ramesses’ wife, Nefertari. After the construction of the Aswan Dam in the 1960s, the entire complex was relocated to higher ground to prevent flood damage.
Pyramid of Djoser
Address: Pyramid of Djoser, Badrshein, Giza Governorate 3352001, Egypt
The Pyramid of Djoser, located in the Saqqara necropolis of Ancient Memphis, is the earliest known pyramid. Constructed in the 27th century BC, its stepped design served as a prototype for later smooth-sided pyramids. Designed by architect Imhotep, it reached a height of 204 feet (63 meters) and represents one of the earliest examples of stone architecture. For his innovations, Imhotep was later deified as the patron god of architects and doctors. The pyramid was originally covered with polished white limestone, shining brilliantly in its day.
Temple of Horus at Edfu
Address: Adfo, Edfo, Aswan Governorate 1291234, Egypt
The Temple of Horus at Edfu is among the best-preserved Ancient Egyptian monuments. Built between 237 and 57 BC during the Ptolemaic dynasty, it honors Horus, the falcon-headed god, significant as both the god of the sky and as a warrior. The massive complex showcases impressive architecture, with a grand pylon, birth house, and intricate reliefs narrating stories of Horus. Edfu lies midway between Aswan and Luxor, often serving as a stop for Nile River cruises.
Temple of Kom Ombo
Address: FW2H+V93, Nagoa Ash Shatb, Markaz Kom Ombo, Aswan Governorate 1281301, Egypt
The Temple of Kom Ombo is unique as a double temple, with one side dedicated to Horus and the other to Sobek, the crocodile deity. Construction began under Ptolemy VI Philometor in the 2nd century BC. Known for its impressive symmetry and stunning riverside setting, the temples display exquisite hieroglyphs, carved columns, and reliefs, providing insight into the religious practices of ancient Egypt.
Temple of Dendera
Address: Qism Qena, Qena, Qena Governorate 1455046, Egypt
The Dendera complex houses one of the best-preserved Ancient Egyptian temples, the Temple of Hathor. The temple, constructed during the Ptolemaic dynasty and believed to have foundations from the Middle Kingdom, spans over 430,500 square feet (40,000 square meters). The Dendera Zodiac and remarkable paintings, including depictions of Cleopatra, make this site a vital stop for visitors exploring the River Nile.
Temple of Isis
The Temple of Isis, built on Philae Island, has roots in the cult of Isis dating back to the 7th century B.C. Today’s temple dates from 370 B.C., with significant additions made during Ptolemy II Philadelphus and by Roman emperor Diocletian. Smaller shrines commemorate deities linked to the myth of Isis and Osiris. Philae was among the last bastions of ancient Egyptian religion, continuing two centuries after the Roman Empire’s conversion to Christianity. The temple has been relocated to Agilkia Island to avoid flood damage.
