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S U M M E R I S S U E 2 9
LUXOR TEMPLE
This 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.
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.
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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 Muhammad
Ali Mosque – it today houses various
museums, and is the most prominent and
photographed spot within the complex.
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