Viking Cruises

Viking Explorer Society News - Issue 18 - Winter 2023

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4 THE SECRETS OF THE PYRAMIDS Egypt's pyramids are its most iconic treasures. Discover the necropolis of Sakkara, thought to be the first pyramid built in ancient Egypt. At Giza Plateau, the most spectacular are the Great Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. Also on the list is Abu al-Hol – the Sphinx that guards the entrance to the tombs. LUXOR TEMPLE is striking temple sits on the fringes of the modern town of Luxor. Known as the Southern Sanctuary, the interiors boast ancient hieroglyphs telling of the festival of Opet which was held annually in ancient Egypt. Visit the Great Court of Ramses II, whose walls are adorned with the names and titles of his 17 sons. 5 DENDER A TEMPLE EXPLOR ATION The complex of Dendera is one of Egypt's best-preserved sites and is situated on the west bank of the Nile. It dates all the way back to the mid-4th century BC and is thought to be a shrine to the goddess of love, Hathor. Inside, the temple boasts examples of Ptolemaic Egyptian art, and a replica of the Dendera Zodiac – a sculpture from the Greco-Roman period that charts stars in the ancient sky. TEMPLES OF PHILAE Founded around 280 BC, the Temples of Philae were an important centre for the cult of Isis, and later were of great significance to the Greeks and Romans. The temples are now a UNESCO site, and have been moved, block by block, to Agilka Island. Discover the sites of the temples, staying for the evening to catch the light show that creates a dramatic kaleidoscope of light and shadow, bringing the figures displayed on the walls to life. CITADEL OF SALAH EL DIN The medieval Islamic-era fortification in Cairo is perched on a hill that looms over the city. Its spectacular dome and minarets shoot up to dominate the capital city's skyline while its imposing gateways and high defending walls show its purpose during a time of warfare. The citadel is one of Cairo's main attractions and one of the most popular non-pharaonic monuments – along with the Mohamed Ali Mosque – it today houses various museums, and is the most prominent and photographed spot within the complex. viking.com 35

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