Category: Things to do in Egypt

Karnak Temple Complex in Luxor Egypt | Egyptian Temples in Ancient Egypt

Discover Secrets, Architectural Design and map of the Karnak Temple Complex in Luxor and the historical facts of its construction stages, new secrets and discoveries about the wonder of Ancient Egyptian civilization in the arts of sculpture and the development of architecture starting from the kings of the Middle Kingdom of Egypt, then The New Kingdom, then the Late Period and the Black Pharaohs until the kings of the Ptolemaic and Roman eras.

After reading article, you will discover what are the secrets of the Pharaohs such as King Ramses II, King Thutmose III, King Ramses III, King Tutankhamun, Queen Hatshepsut, King Horemheb, King Amenhotep III and more to start building a strong cultural knowledge about the ancient Egyptian civilization, Egyptian temples, religious beliefs and ancient Egyptian gods.

I Write Content Up to date update on restorations at the Karnak Temple Complex until November 2024 with photos and videos.

At the end of the article, I put My Opinion as a researcher in Egyptology. Contact me and send your opinion.

Karnak Temple Complex Plan / Map of the Great Temple of God Amun-Ra from inside

External Administrative Complex:

• Parking area for limousines car, Luxor Taxi, Minivans and Buses.
• 2 Bathrooms “W.C., Toilet” for men and women (Entrance ticket per person = 10 Egyptian pounds).
• Shops selling Pharaonic clothes and Gifts.
• Ticket window for buying Entrance Ticket to the Karnak Temple Complex, payment by Visa only, Entrance Fee Adult= 600 Egyptian pounds, child from 5-12 years old or student = 300 Egyptian pounds.
• Metal detector gate before Entry Hall Karnak Temple Complex Museum.
• 2 Bathrooms “W.C., Toilet” in Entry Hall (entrance ticket per person = 10 Egyptian pounds).
• Model Karnak Temple Complex “A complete model of the complete architectural design of all parts of the Karnak Temple”
• Boats of God Amun, God Mut and God Khonsu (the Theban triad), which were used in the Opet festival (the festivals of the pharaohs).”
• The oldest freight train in Egypt.
• Large garden towards the temple.
• Security and guarded metal detector gate directly before entering the temple.

Reception Courtyard

It contains a small canal to transport Nile River water from Karnak Port to the interior, in addition to being used to transport stones and construction equipment via boats and wooden planks.

Obelisks of King Seti II

Two 250 cm high sandstone obelisks were built and carved during the reign of King Seti II, one on the right and one on the left just before the Avenue of Sphinxes..

Religious texts were written in the ancient Egyptian language as a dedication to the god Amun, the most famous of the ancient Egyptian gods in the religion of the ancient Egyptian pharaohs.

King Seti II Facts

• Second Egyptian Pharaohs kings of Nineteenth Dynasty of Egypt, The New Kingdom.
• Tomb of King Seti II | KV15 in the Valley of the Kings, Luxor.
• Wife: Queen Twosret.

Rams Road-Sphinx Street – Avenue of Sphinxes

Avenue of Sphinxes extends in front of the first pylon of the Karnak Temple complex, forming a sacred path linking the Karnak Temple Complex with Temple of Luxor, with the length of the avenue being about 2.7 km.

Avenue of Sphinxes is one of the most prominent landmarks that reflects the religious rituals associated with the god Amun-Ra and the Opet Festival, which was one of the most important religious Festivals in ancient Egypt.

Avenue of Sphinxes consists of statues in the form of rams with the body of a lion and the head of a ram, distributed on both sides of the avenue.

The ram in ancient Egyptian culture has a strong symbolic significance, as it is associated with the god Amun, as it is his sacred animal.

The ram represents strength, growth and fertility in the beliefs of the ancient Egyptians, which made these statues symbols of protecting the temple and the fertility of the land.

The ram was also considered an embodiment of the will of the god Amun and his care for all living things, which gave the Avenue of the Rams a sacred character among the ancient Egyptians..

What is the Road of the Ram Headed sphinxes?

The ancient Egyptians used advanced equipment to carve the ram statues in an elaborate manner, carrying small statues of King Ramses II under their heads.

This artistic design reflects the depth of the symbolic relationship between King Ramses II and the god Amun, as the god Amun was the patron and protector of the ruling king, and these statues consecrate the king’s status as a ruler who enjoys the support and protection of the gods on earth.

The statues of rams represent the protection of the god Amun for the king’s subjects, as the king appears to be protected by the rams, which symbolized Amun’s power and authority on earth.

What does the ram headed Sphinx mean?

The Avenue of Sphinxes was used as a main passage in the annual Pharaonic religious festival processions, especially during the Opet Festival, when the statue of the god Amun was transported from the Karnak Temple Complex to the Luxor Temple, passing through the Avenue of Sphinxes, with the aim of renewing the relationship between the ruling king and the god Amun and confirming the god’s support for the king and the Egyptian nation.

The statue of the god Amun was carried on a sacred boat (now displayed in the Karnak Temple Complex Museum at the beginning of the entrance to the administrative complex) and was accompanied by priests during its 3-day procession along the Avenue of Sphinxes, surrounded by an atmosphere of religious hymns and rituals. Offerings and gifts were also presented during these processions..

What is the religious meaning of the Sphinx?

The Avenue of Sphinxes expresses a rich religious symbolism that combines earth and sky, fertility and power. The ram is a sacred symbol in the religion of the ancient Egyptians, representing the ability of the god Amun to bring prosperity to Egypt.

Therefore, the statues were placed on the avenue to express the sovereignty of the god Amun over nature and man, and to grant security and protection to the temple and the ruling pharaoh.

The statues of the Avenue of Sphinxes also contributed to stimulating visitors to meditate and feel awe and reverence as they walked between the rows of sacred statues, which represented part of the most sacred of ancient Egyptian religious rituals..

What are the ram headed sphinx statues at Karnak Temple Complex?

• The length of the Avenue of Sphinxes is 52 meters and its width is 13 meters..
• The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has restored all the ram statues that connect the Karnak Temple Complex to Luxor, the road at the entrance to the temple complex, and the third road that connects to the Temple of the God Amun and the Temple of the God Mut..
• Thirty-four sandstone statues in the shape of a sphinx were carved on a rectangular stone base like the “Sphinx of Giza built in the Old Kingdoms during the reign of King Khafre, Third Dynasty of Egypt” and installed on both sides of a road paved with solid stones to connect the temple of the god Khonsu south of the Karnak Temple Complex to the Luxor Temple during the reign of King Nectanebo I “Thirtieth Dynasty of Egypt, Late Period”.”
• There are theories from Egyptologists that King Amenhotep III carved his name on royal cartouches on the southern gate of the temple of the god Khonsu and ordered the carving of stone statues to replace the ancient Avenue of Sphinxes.

King Amenhotep III Facts

• Egyptian Pharaohs king of Nineteenth Dynasty of Egypt, The New Kingdom.
• The Colossi of Memnon, Mortuary Temple of Amenhotep III in Deir El Bahari, Tomb of King Amenhotep III | KV22 / WV22 in the Valley of the Kings, Luxor.
• Temple of Amenhotep III in El Kab, Aswan.
• Wife: Queen Tiye, Queen Sitamun.

The Surrounding Wall of the Karnak Temple Complex

The wall surrounding the Karnak Temple Complex is one of the most important features of this huge architectural complex.

It was built during the reign of King Nectanebo I, founder of the Thirtieth Dynasty in the Late Period.

This wall is known for its massiveness and strong construction, as it represented protection for the temples and sanctuaries located within the Karnak Temple Complex, and reflects the ancient Egyptians’ interest in preserving the sanctity of the temple and its isolation from the outside world..

Fence design and specifications

The surrounding wall was built of mud bricks, and is characterise by its massive dimensions, as it is about 12m thick, about 550m long, about 480m wide, and 20m high.

The wall is designed in a wavy shape from the top, a design believed to symbolize the eternal waters in ancient Egyptian beliefs, which were considered a symbol of creation and the first beginning.

This wavy shape also reflects an artistic touch in the architectural design and gives the wall a unique character that distinguishes the Karnak Temple Complex from other Egyptian funerary temples..

Wall entrances

The wall contains eight main entrances that facilitate access to the various Karnak Temple Complex Among these entrances are::

North entrance:

It connects the temple of the god Amun-Ra with the temple of the god Montu, and is an important entrance that connects the main temples to each other..

Two entrances in the southeast

They lead to the tenth pylon and the temple of the god Mut..

West entrance

It is located near the temple of the god Khonsu, and is the entrance that was mainly used to access this temple..

Ptolemy III Gate

The Euergetes Gate, which was created as an entrance linking the main buildings and sites in the temple..

Western and Eastern Gates

The surrounding wall includes several entrances on the east and west sides, including three entrances on the west.

The middle entrance on this side, which connects to the first pylon, is the main entrance to the temple of the god Amun-Ra, and leads directly into the heart of the temple.

These gates reflect the strength and precision of the engineering design of the Pharaohs and highlight the importance of urban planning to distribute the entrances in a way that ensures the smooth flow of movement inside the temple and connects the different parts easily to demonstrate the extent of the development of architecture in ancient Egypt..

Symbolism of the wall and its religious connotations

The surrounding wall was not just a physical barrier to protect the funerary temples inside, but had a deep religious significance in the beliefs of the ancient Egyptians.

The undulating, wavy design of the wall is a symbol of eternal water, which in ancient Egyptian belief symbolizes Nun, the eternal watery ocean from which life was first created.

The wall reflects the sanctity of the place and its connection to creation, reinforcing the status of Karnak Temple Complex as one of the most important centers of worship in ancient Egypt..

The importance of the wall in protecting temples

The surrounding wall played a vital role in protecting the temples from weather factors such as winds, thunderstorms and potential invasions from the south, especially Nubia and Sudan, as it provided strong protection for the internal structures and preserved the sanctity of the place away from external influences.

The wall made it possible to regulate entry and exit through its specific entrances, which made it easy to control the flow of visitors to offer sacrifices, worship, priests, and control religious festivals and celebrations within the temple..

The wall as part of the urban planning of Karnak Temple Complex

The surrounding wall shows a deep understanding of urban planning within the architectural designs of Egyptian temples, as it was carefully designed to surround the group of temples, allowing the ancient Egyptians to expand the temple in a manner that suits religious needs throughout the different eras, starting from the rule of the kings of the Middle Kingdom of Egypt until the Roman and Ptolemaic eras.

The wall contributed to achieving harmony between the different parts of the temple and linking them together in a way that integrates with the general structure of the Karnak Temple Complex.

First Courtyard in Karnak Temple Complex – Open Temple

The open temple is part of the Karnak Temple Complex and forms an open-air museum that allows visitors to see some of the archaeological fragments, columns and chapels that were found during archaeological excavations.

The first open courtyard is considered one of the additions that aims to display the discovered artifacts in an educational manner, making it a historical window that enables visitors to interact with the history of Karnak Temple Complex in a direct way and discover the secrets of ancient Egyptian civilization..

Contents of the Open Temple

The open temple contains a group of shrines, statues and archaeological inscriptions that reflect Egypt’s ancient past and the developments of the temple over the ages. The most prominent of these contents are::

Senusret I Shrine

This chapel is one of the oldest parts of the open temple, and has been reassembled to display reliefs illustrating the worship of the god Amun-Ra and depicting King Senusret I making offerings to the god..

king Senusret I Facts

• Twelfth Dynasty of Egypt, Middle Kingdom of Egypt.
• Pyramid of Senusret I.

King Thutmose III  Shrine

The cabin contains reliefs describing the military campaigns led by King Thutmose III and his achievements, reflecting the strength of the Egyptian state during the New Kingdom era in confronting enemies from the east, west and south and the duration of the strength of the Egyptian army.

Statues of Amun and Ancient Egyptian gods and Goddesses:

It includes some large and small statues of the god Amun and the ancient Egyptian gods worshipped in Karnak Temple Complex, as it shows the Egyptian art method in sculpture and the fine details used in embodying the features of the gods and shows the extent of the development of the arts of sculpture and painting in ancient Egypt.

First Pylon Karnak Temple Complex

The first pylon of the Karnak Temple Complex is one of the largest and most magnificent pylons in ancient Egypt, and is even considered one of the largest pylons in the entire world.

Although it was not fully completed, it reflects the strength and sophistication of architecture in ancient Egyptian civilization.

Construction of this monument began during Twenty-second Dynasty of Egypt, specifically during the reign of King Shoshenq I around 930 BC, who ordered the opening of the quarries of Gebel el-Silsila to bring the sandstone needed for construction.

The Gebel el-Silsila quarries were among the most important quarries in ancient Egypt in the city of Aswan, and were considered a primary source of sandstone used in the construction of Egyptian temples, statues and royal buildings..

First Pylon Karnak Temple Complex Dimensions & architectural design

The first monument is distinguished by its enormous dimensions; its height reaches 43 meters, its width is about 113 meters, and its thickness is 15 meters, making it a huge structure with great majesty.

The monument was designed in a distinctive way that gives it a sense of grandeur and majesty.

The monument contains eight huge niches that were used to fix flagpoles, and this feature makes the first monument unique of its kind, as it was not customary to use this number of niches in other Egyptian monuments..

The height of a single flagpole in the first pylon reached 50 meters, making it one of the tallest flagpoles in the Pharaonic era.

The flagpoles were raised above the pylon to add greater height to its structure, which adds more majesty to it and shows the power of the temple in the sky, thus expressing the religious and political superiority of the temple of the god Amun-Ra..

First gate Decorative in First Pylon

The gate of the first edifice was provided with a huge door, made of Lebanese cedar wood, which was considered one of the finest types of wood, and covered with sheets of gold and silver to give it a distinctive shine and express the sacred status of the temple.

This door was considered one of the major entrances to the Karnak Temple Complex, and a symbol of the religious power and political status of the ancient Egyptian gods and priests at that time..

This gate was destroyed in later eras, especially at the beginning of the Late Period and after the rule of the Roman and Ptolemaic kings, and nothing remains of it except some scattered parts that indicate its former greatness.

There are theories from archaeologists and Egyptologists that the gate was exposed to a huge fire that occurred during the Roman era, where parts of the temple were destroyed and the gate was burned during a period of political or religious unrest and revolutions in ancient Egypt as a result of the spread of famine and the failure to implement laws and the monopoly of each regional ruler over his rule..

Hollow construction in First Pylon

The first pylon, like the rest of the pylons of the Karnak Temple Complex, was hollow from the inside and contained several rooms and stairs leading to the top of the two towers, which were used for various purposes such as storing offerings, food and drinks or housing the priests.

The North Tower has an internal staircase that allows ascent to the top, and the interior design of the monument is characterized by a clever layout that provides stability to the entire structure, and ensures the stability of the flagpoles and flags that were placed in the designated niches..

The first edifice of the Karnak Temple Complex is considered an embodiment of the power and creativity of ancient Egyptian architecture, reflecting the greatness of the kings of the Twenty-second Dynasty and their ability to achieve amazing architectural achievements.

It also expresses the intellectual and artistic development that Egyptian civilization reached during that period, through the innovative use of resources, solid design and attention to the smallest details.

Colonnade of Columns – Pepsin Courtyard

The Pepsin Courtyard is an important architectural element of the Karnak Temple Complex, located within the first pylon and dating back to the Twenty-second Dynasty, known as the Libyan Dynasty. “The city of Sharqiya in Zagazig in the Delta was the capital of ancient Egypt during the rule of the kings of Tell Basta“.

The courtyard was built during the reign of King Shoshenq I, with the aim of providing a large space for religious ceremonies and celebrations, making it a major gathering point for priests and the masses of people during official festivals and processions..

The Pepsin Courtyard is 103m long from north to south and 84m wide from east to west, making it one of the largest courtyards built in the Karnak Temple Complex.

The courtyard contains two rows of large columns in the shape of an open Egyptian papyrus flower. These columns were designed to decorate the northern and southern sides of the courtyard, giving the courtyard a sense of grandeur and majesty.

The construction of these columns dates back to King Shoshenq I, who was keen to build this courtyard to be a witness to the grandeur of ancient Egyptian architecture..

The role of the pepsin courtyard in religious rituals and celebrations:

The Pepsin Court was used as the main gathering place during major celebrations at Karnak Temple Complex, such as the Opet Festival, when priests and people would gather around the religious procession that passed through this court on its way from the Second Pylon to the First Pylon and then to the Avenue of Sphinxes.

The courtyard was a huge theater that witnessed the rituals of offerings and religious hymns presented to the ancient Egyptian gods, where the statue of the god Amun carried on a sacred boat was received in this courtyard, and prayers and religious rituals were performed collectively, reflecting the status of the god Amun as the main god in the ancient Egyptian Pharaonic state.

Multiple effects on pepsin annihilation and their temporal overlap:

The Pepsin Courtyard contains artifacts from different eras, making it a unique blend of architectural elements from multiple periods. Some modifications have been made to the courtyard over the ages.

These interwoven elements show the succession of Egyptian dynasties that ruled the throne of ancient Egypt, such as the Twenty-Second Dynasty, which laid the first foundations of the courtyard, and the Twenty-Fifth Dynasty, which added the shrine of King Taharqa in the middle of the courtyard..

The symbolism of Pepsin’s courtyard and its cultural implications:

 The Pepsin Courtyard is a symbol of the architectural and cultural diversity of Karnak Temple Complex, reflecting the blending of successive Egyptian cultures within a single architectural framework. The courtyard is an example of how ancient Egyptian civilization integrated religious and social rituals, where visitors can witness the succession of ruling families and what each added to this courtyard over time.

Taharqa Kiosk

Taharqa’s Kiosk is a prominent landmark of Karnak Temple Complex, located in the centre of the Pepsin Court in front of the Second Pylon.

This kiosk was built during the reign of the Nubian King Taharqa. The most famous of the Kushite kings, one of the greatest kings of Twenty-fifth Dynasty of Egypt, the “Black Pharaohs”, consists of ten huge columns in the shape of a lotus flower, each column is about 21 meters high.

The unique architectural design reflects the kiosk’s association with religious symbolism among the ancient Egyptians, as the lotus flower represents a symbol of purity and rebirth in ancient Egyptian civilization.

The Taharqa Kiosk was used as a rest stop for the sacred barge during the Opet festival, one of the most important religious festivals in ancient Egypt.

During this festival, the statue of the god Amun was transported in a sacred procession from the Karnak Temple Complex to the Luxor Temple.

The procession stopped at several sacred stations to allow the people to approach the god and offer supplications and requests.

Taharqa’s kiosk provided this rest stop, where the boat would stop for a short period to allow worshippers the opportunity to worship and offer sacrifices, reflecting the importance of the kiosk as a bridge between the people and the god Amun, and increasing the grandeur and spirituality of the celebration..

Although Taharqa’s kiosk was built in the Twenty-fifth Dynasty at the beginning of the Late Period, it saw interest and restoration in later periods, indicating its continued use as an important station in the religious procession.

During the reign of King Ptolemy IV of the Ptolemaic era, the kiosk was restored and some improvements were added to it, reflecting the importance of this site as an integral part of religious celebration processions even during the reign of the Ptolemaic kings.

This restoration indicates that the ancient Egyptians, despite the change of the ruling Egyptian families, were keen to preserve the sacred sites and dedicate them to the performance of religious rituals on an ongoing basis, especially since the Roman and Ptolemaic kings did not want to conflict with the priests of the Egyptian temples so as not to anger the people..

Cultural symbolism of Taharqa Kiosk:

Taharqa’s Kiosk is a symbol of Nubian architecture in the heart of Karnak Temple Complex, embodying the influence of Nubian civilization on Egyptian culture and its integration into the religious and political context. The kiosk also reflects the prestige that characterized Taharqa’s reign, and demonstrates his awareness of the role of religion as a means of communicating with the people and strengthening their spiritual ties..

Wall carvings in Taharqa Kiosk

The walls of Taharqa’s kiosk are decorated with a group of engravings bearing historical symbols and shapes.:

• Map and numbers 14 and 15: The map includes Asian names within circular shapes, in addition to the appearance of the Nile god and some Nubian names.
• Numbers 16, 17, 18, and 19: Representing the names of the gods of Lower Egypt, where King Ptolemy IV makes offerings to the ancient Egyptian gods on the western side.
• Numbers 20 and 21: Refers to the names of the gods of Upper Egypt, along with King Ptolemy IV and other texts.
• Number 22: King Taharqa appears before the god Amun.
• Number 23: On the northwestern column, King Taharqa represents himself offering wine to the god Amun and the god Mut.
• Number 24: The southeast column shows scenes of King Taharqa, depicted next to King Psamtik II (26th Dynasty), who placed his name and image in front of the sacred triad of Thebes: the god Amun, the god Mut, and the god Khonsu.

Barque Shrine of King Seti II

In the northwestern corner of the Pepsin Courtyard in the Karnak Temple Complex, there are three chapels built by King Seti II of the Nineteenth Dynasty of Egypt in the New Kingdom, and dedicated to the resting place of the sacred boat of the trinity of ancient Thebes: the god Amun, his wife the goddess Mut, and their son the god Khonsu.

These shrines represent an important station in the religious rituals associated with the processions of the ancient Egyptian gods, especially during the Opet Festival, when the statue of the god Amun emerges from the Holy of Holies room to make an annual journey from the Karnak Temple Complex to the Luxor Temple to renew divinity, youth and vitality.

The statue is stopped during the journey at several stations to allow the people to approach the gods and offer supplications and offerings. The duration of the journey was 3 days and the duration of the celebration at the Luxor Temple was from 10 to 15 days..

The three shrines were designed so that the largest shrine in the middle was dedicated to the god Amun, who was considered the greatest god in ancient Egypt and the patron of the ancient city of Thebes and the capital of Egypt in the New Kingdom.

On the left side of the shrine of the god Amun is the shrine of the goddess Mut, who represents his consort, while on the right is the shrine of the god Khonsu, the son of Amun and Mut, thus embodying the integration of the Theban triad within these shrines.

This distribution expresses the status of each god in the holy trinity of the ancient Egyptians, where the shrine of the god Amun is the most important and largest, while the shrines of the god Mut and then the god Khonsu come on the sides as a symbol of the connection between the holy gods..

Decorations and engravings inside the chambers:

The walls of the shrines of Seti II feature carved scenes depicting King Seti II making offerings to the Theban Triad, where he is shown in several scenes offering flowers, vessels filled with water, and lighting incense as part of the sanctification ritual.

The inscriptions also included scenes of royal and religious rituals and rites, showing King Seti II performing rituals aimed at getting closer to the ancient Egyptian gods and ensuring their support for him and his people, obtaining the right of kingship, and carrying out his assigned tasks on earth.

These decorations and engravings are an example of the development of ancient Egyptian religious art among the pharaohs, as they express the deep respect for divinity and the role played by the ruling king as a mediator between the people and the gods..

Religious significance of the shrines of Seti II in religious rituals:

The shrines of Seti II were used as resting places for the sacred boat during the Opet festivals, where the boats of the Theban triad would stop so that the priests could perform rituals and organize the procession, allowing the people to approach the gods and offer supplications.

This stopping was a profound religious symbol that expressed the interaction between the people and their gods, and it also reinforced the role of the king in strengthening the spiritual bonds between the state and the gods, as Seti II is shown in the wall reliefs acting as the high priest..

The construction of these three shrines by King Seti II is evidence of the continuity of religious traditions and the respect of successive kings for the practices of their fathers and grandfathers.

These shrines show the commitment of the kings of the Nineteenth Dynasty to strengthening religious rituals and developing the architectural structure of Karnak Temple Complex to meet the needs of worship and sacred religious celebrations of the ancient Egyptians.

Karnak Temple Complex Dock

Karnak Temple Complex dock represents the beginning of the journey to this great edifice, as it is the first thing that the visitor encounters upon entering the temple.

The dock was the place where the sacred ships docked, those carrying offerings and goods coming from different parts of the regions of ancient Egypt, which were presented to the god Amun during the annual festival seasons, such as the Opet Festival and the Valley Festival..

Role of the marina in the Opet Festival:

 The dock served as the starting point for the religious procession carrying the statue of the god Amun during the Opet festivals, as it was transported from the Karnak Temple to the Luxor Temple in a symbolic annual journey.

This procession was intended to renew fertility and life for Egypt, as it embodied the return of the annual flood that brought fertility and growth to ancient Egypt.

This sacred journey formed a link between the temples and reinforced the association of the god Amun with the well-being and prosperity of Egypt..

As for the Valley Festival, the procession would leave Karnak towards the Western Cemetery to meet the souls of the dead, where special religious rituals would be performed to honor the ancestors and renew the connection between the world of the living and the world of the dead, as was discovered in the Book of the Dead, the Book of Gates, and other religious books.

During these occasions, the sacred boats were decorated and carried by priests to complete the procession between the Egyptian temples and the banks of the Nile River, creating an atmosphere of awe and reverence.

Ship of Amun “Userhat”

The sacred boats were decorated with the finest ornaments and decorations in preparation for the annual religious festival processions. Archaeological inscriptions indicate that the sacred boat of Ha-Hamun, which was known as “User-Hat”, was one of the most magnificent sacred religious boats of the ancient Egyptians, as it was more than 80 meters long and was made of cedar wood covered with gold.

The luxurious sacred boat of the god Amun expressed the status of the god Amun as the main god of ancient Egypt.

He had funerary temples in all the villages and regions of Upper and Lower Egypt, where he was honored with the most beautiful and valuable materials available, from offerings, furniture, food and drink. The importance of these religious rituals is reflected through them..

Religious symbolism of the Karnak Temple mooring:

 The Karnak Temple pier holds deep religious significance, as it is considered the beginning of the ritual journey that connected the temple with the Nile River, as the river represented a source of fertility and life for the ancient Egyptians.

Through the Opet and Valley Festivals, the ancient Egyptians renewed their covenant with nature and the ancient Egyptian gods in the sky, and emphasized the importance of spiritual balance and material prosperity.

Temple of King Ramses III

Location and importance of Ramses III Temple in Karnak

The temple of Ramesses III is located in the Amun precinct at Karnak. This site was carefully chosen to be part of the main religious structure at Thebes, as Karnak was the center of worship of the god Amun and the Theban triad. At the time of the temple’s construction, the Second Pylon was the main western facade of the Karnak complex, making this site central to the entrance to the temple of Amun. It also allowed Ramesses III to have his temple to the right of the entrance to Karnak Temple Complex, near the Second Pylon, reflecting his desire to demonstrate his role as protector of the god Amun..

Although Ramesses III did not know that the first pylon would be built later in the Thirtieth Dynasty, the site of his temple continued to form part of the central axis of the Karnak Temple Complex.

After the construction of the first pylon, his small temple became part of the larger sanctuary of the Temple of Amun, yet it still had a distinct, independent and clearly defined architectural unity, making it one of the most prominent temples of the New Kingdom’s god-worship.

The role of the temple as a resting place for sacred boats

The temple was intended as a resting place for the sacred boats of the Theban triad, especially the boat of the god Amun, during festivals such as the Opet Festival.

At this time, the sacred boats were usually hosted in the three sanctuaries built by Seti II, but Ramesses III saw that building a temple bearing his name would be a better way to legitimize his rule, since stopping at a place bearing the king’s name was considered a symbol of divine legitimacy.

With this location, Ramesses III provided his temple with a convenient place to support his rule and strengthen his spiritual connection.With Amon.

The site’s connection to the king’s legitimacy

The construction of this temple was part of Ramesses III’s strategy to strengthen the legitimacy of his rule, especially since he was keen to assert his right to the throne.

This is evident in the inscriptions on the walls of the Temple of Habu, which mention that he inherited the rule from his father with the blessing of the god Amun, and that he regained the throne after it was usurped by the Libyan ruler.

The role of the Temple of Ramses III as a resting place for sacred boats

The temple of Ramesses III at Karnak Temple Complex was intended to serve as a resting place for the sacred boats of the Theban triad (Amun, Mut, and Khonsu) during major festivals such as the Opet festival.

These rest stops played an important role in ancient Egyptian religious rituals, as sacred boats carrying statues of the gods would travel across the Nile from the Karnak Temple Complex to the Luxor Temple, stopping at specific rest stops as part of the ritual to ensure the god’s blessing and the legitimacy of the ruling king.

Before the construction of the temple of Ramesses III, the sacred boats usually stopped at the three shrines built by King Seti II, located to the north of the temple. However, Ramesses III saw it as inappropriate for the sacred boats to stop at a rest house bearing the name of another king, as stopping at a temple bearing the king’s name was considered a powerful symbol confirming the legitimacy of the rule, and strengthening the king’s connection to the god.

Hence the idea of ​​building a special temple bearing his name in the Amun area.

Emphasis on royal legitimacy:

By building this temple, Ramesses III secured a spiritual foothold in Karnak Temple Complex, giving him the opportunity to assert his legitimacy as a divinely elected king. Stopping at a temple bearing the king’s name during boat trips was seen as a symbolic affirmation of the god’s acceptance and protection of this king, something of particular importance to Ramesses III, who was keen to demonstrate his legitimacy and protect his throne.

Religious design of the temple:

The design of the temple of Ramesses III is consistent with the spiritual requirements of the boat rest, as it was designed to contain courtyards and halls that fit the needs of the rituals, ensuring easy access to the Holy of Holies and the performance of the necessary ceremonies for the sacred boats.

Architectural design of the Temple of Ramesses III in the Karnak Temple Complex

The overall design of the Temple of Ramesses III at Karnak Temple Complex reflects the basic elements of Egyptian temples in the New Kingdom, making it an ideal model that expresses the traditional architectural style that embodies the religious and political status of the king.

The temple is characterized by a simple and integrated design, as it contains the basic elements of the ancient Egyptian temple, from the pylons to the open courtyard and up to the Holy of Holies.

Simple design and basic elements

Although the temple is small compared to other temples such as the Temple of Habu, it contains all the essential elements of a traditional Egyptian temple.

It begins with a first pylon, then an open courtyard, then a hypostyle hall, and finally a sanctuary.

The temple is characterized by its simple and direct design, as it was built to serve a single purpose without later additions from other periods, making it a clear example of temples dedicated to the worship of the gods at the end of the New Kingdom..

Patterns and colors

The walls of the temple are decorated with colorful engravings depicting religious and royal scenes, depicting King Ramses III offering sacrifices to the ancient Egyptian gods.

Although the colors have faded over time, some remaining traces of the colors indicate the magnificence of the drawings and bright colors that covered the walls of the temple.

The First Pylon and Royal Scenes in the Temple of Ramesses III

The first pylon of the Temple of Ramesses III is one of the most prominent elements of the temple, as it welcomes visitors with a huge facade decorated with engravings showing King Ramesses III in scenes expressing his power, greatness and loyalty to the Egyptian gods, especially the god Amun..

Royal facade and inscriptions

The facade of the first edifice consists of two large towers representing the two mountains of the horizon, a fundamental symbol in ancient Egyptian belief that expresses the sun rising from between the mountains, as a sign of resurrection and divine light.

Between the two towers, there is a bridge leading to the entrance, where the king or his representative could appear during religious ceremonies..

Statues of King Ramses III

In front of the edifice, huge statues of King Ramses III carved from sandstone were placed, with the king standing crowned, wearing the double crown, a symbol of unity between Upper and Lower Egypt, as if welcoming those entering the temple, which enhances his majesty and connection with the gods..

Royal inscriptions on the towers

The walls of the two towers bear traditional scenes showing King Ramesses III striking his enemies in the presence of the god Amun, who presents him with the sword, a symbol of power, while the king holds the hair of the enemies in his hand and raises the whip in a scene expressing his dominance and protection of Egypt.

The king is shown on the western side wearing the double crown, which represents his control over Upper and Lower Egypt, while on the eastern side he is shown wearing the red crown, which expresses his ownership of Lower Egypt..

Symbolism of royal scenes and their religious significance

These scenes are not just a depiction of the king in moments of victory, but rather a symbol of his power and legitimacy as a king who enjoys the support of the gods, especially the god Amun.

It is known that these scenes were represented to highlight the legitimacy of the king and his rule with the blessing of the gods, especially during a period when the king was keen to demonstrate his status before the people and the gods, after the economic and security challenges that Egypt witnessed during his reign.

Decorative details and sacred symbols

The walls of the edifice contained fine drawings of sacred objects such as the “Ankh Sign”, a symbol of life, the “Was Scepter”, a symbol of control, and the “Djed Pillar”, a symbol of stability. These symbols show that the god Amun grants King Ramesses III a long and stable life full of power and authority..

Statues of rams and the road leading to the second pylon

The Avenue of Sphinxes extends to the second pylon, but after the construction of the first pylon, some of the ram statues were moved to be distributed on both sides of the new entrance to the pylon. These rams are associated with the god Amun, as they express his protection of the temple and the king, and form a symbolic extension of the sanctity of the place.

The second pylon in the temple of Ramesses III at Karnak Temple Complex

The Second Pylon is a central element of the temple of Ramesses III at the Karnak Temple Complex complex, and is located immediately after the First Pylon, making it part of the main path leading to the heart of the temple.

This pylon represented the original western facade of the Karnak Temple Complex during the reign of Ramesses III before the construction of the First Pylon during the Thirtieth Dynasty. As such, the Second Pylon is a central station for religious rituals and royal ceremonies..

Location and religious significance

At the time of Ramesses III’s construction, the Second Pylon was the most important entrance to the Karnak Temple Complex, placing his small temple on the right of the visitor entering through this pylon, thus reinforcing its central position within the sacred layout of the complex.

The Second Pylon is the main gateway leading to the temple courtyards and open courtyard, and is surrounded by scenes and reliefs glorifying the king and his heroic deeds in protecting Egypt and devoting himself to the worship of the gods..

Royal reliefs and heroic scenes

As in the first pylon, the façade of the second pylon is decorated with scenes depicting King Ramesses III performing religious rituals, making offerings in the presence of the god Amun, and defeating his enemies in scenes that highlight his strength and courage as a king supported by the gods.

These reliefs not only serve as a symbol of dominance, but also affirm the king’s legitimacy and loyalty to the god Amun, who was considered the patron and protector of the kingdom..

Royal Statues and Monuments

In front of the second pylon, huge statues of King Ramses III were placed in royal poses indicating his glory and close connection with the gods. The presence of these statues at the pylon enhances his prestige before the people, as the standing king represents the protector of the entrance to the sacred temples, and shows himself as a mediator between the people and the gods..

The role of the second edifice in religious rituals

The Second Pylon was an essential part of the sacred barge route during major festivals, such as the Opet Festival, where the royal and divine procession passed through on its way into the Karnak Temple Complex. As the sacred barges stopped at certain rest stops, the Second Pylon was considered part of the religious route, enhancing the sanctity and religious significance of the site..

The effect of building the first monument later

When the first pylon was built during the Thirtieth Dynasty, the second pylon became part of the inner temple, however, it retained its importance as a sacred historical gate that was considered the main entrance to the temple during the time of Ramesses III..

The open courtyard in the temple of Ramesses III at Karnak Temple Complex

The open courtyard in the temple of Ramesses III at Karnak Temple Complex is one of the most important elements of the temple’s architectural design, and comes immediately after the first pylon.

It is considered a major place for gathering and religious rituals, as it plays a pivotal role in the activities and celebrations that take place in the temple.

Location and design

The open courtyard is located after the first edifice, and is characterized by its spacious design that allows for accommodating large numbers of visitors and priests to perform religious rituals.

The courtyard is surrounded by a row of massive columns that give it a sense of majesty, and provide areas for standing in the shade of the columns, which enhances the feeling of sanctity and monasticism..

Statues of rams and King Ramses III

The courtyard contains statues of King Ramesses III, who is shown standing in regal poses displaying his power and welcoming visitors. In addition, there is a row of ram statues associated with the god Amun, which were considered a symbol of the protection of the temple.

These rams were part of the Avenue of Sphinxes that extended from the dock to the temple, and some of the ram statues were moved to be distributed around the courtyard after the construction of the first pylon..

The ritual significance of the courtyard

The open courtyard was the center of religious activities and rituals held in the temple, where offerings were made and religious rites were performed.

During major celebrations such as the Opet festival, the courtyard was used as a station to receive the religious and royal procession during the passage of the sacred boats, enhancing its sanctity and giving the place a deep spiritual character.

Ornaments and engravings

The walls and columns of the courtyard are decorated with colorful reliefs depicting King Ramesses III offering sacrifices to the ancient Egyptian gods and performing rituals before the Theban triad (Amun, Mut, and Khonsu).

These reliefs tell religious stories, glorify the king, and reflect his loyalty to the gods. Although some of the colors have faded over time, the remains of the decorations indicate the beauty of the bright colors and the artistic precision that characterized this part of the temple..

The courtyard of the bobsteens

The Bubastian Courtyard is located within the temple of Ramesses III at Karnak Temple Complex and is considered an important part of the temple design, taking its name from the kings of Bubastah, the ancient Egyptian city (Tell Basta) which was the capital of Egypt during the Libyan Twenty-second Dynasty.

This court is an example of the simple architectural and decorative style that emerged in the late New Kingdom, and reflects a clear independent architectural unity.

Location and architectural design

The Pylon of the Bubastians is located in the southern part of the open courtyard of the temple of Ramesses III, and next to it is a row of ram statues that used to extend from the dock to the second pylon, but were moved to this location after the construction of the first pylon.

This courtyard is characterized by the presence of a portico of four columns, distributed on both sides and separated by a wall screen, similar to those in the second courtyard of the temple of Habu, and they serve as symbolic barriers that contribute to the organization of the sacred space..

Religious function and ritual celebrations

The courtyard of the Bubastine was a major venue for rituals and special celebrations. Its walls and columns are decorated with ceremonial scenes of King Ramesses III offering sacrifices to the gods Amun and Min, as well as scenes showing rituals associated with the god Min, reflecting the spiritual relationship between the king and the gods and establishing the legitimacy of his rule.

The walls contain inscriptions related to the festival of the god Min, showing priests carrying emblems and statues of the god, and in some scenes they are shown wearing special robes and raising lettuce plants, the favorite plant of the god Min..

Gradual rise towards the Holy of Holies

The courtyard of the Bubastine is distinguished by its higher floor level than the open courtyard, and this gradual elevation is part of the architectural design of the temple, as it leads to the Holy of Holies at the southernmost part of the temple. The gradual elevation enhances the feeling of sanctity as you move towards the holiest area of ​​the temple, as the rooms become smaller and darker to create an environment suitable for worship and devotion..

The importance of the Bubastian courtyard in the design of the temple

The Bubastine Courtyard is a key part of the temple of Ramesses III, combining elements of the simple and integrated design of Egyptian temples of the late New Kingdom, and stands out as a ceremonial space that supports the rituals of the gods and demonstrates the power of the king and the legitimacy of his rule through his relationship with the gods..

Hypostyle Hall of Ramesses III Temple at Karnak Temple Complex

The Hypostyle Hall of the Temple of Ramesses III at the Karnak Temple Complex complex is an important part of the temple’s architectural design, located after the open courtyard.

This hall reflects the elaborate architectural style of Egyptian temples in the New Kingdom, and is used to add a sense of sanctity and awe to the visitor’s path to the Holy of Holies..

Design and location

The Hypostyle Hall is a covered area with a roof supported by massive columns, the columns increasing in height as one approaches the Holy of Holies.

The hall is designed so that the light gradually decreases as one moves inward, enhancing the sense of awe as one approaches the Holy of Holies..

sacred inscriptions and symbols

The columns and walls of the hall are decorated with colorful reliefs depicting King Ramesses III performing his religious rituals and offering sacrifices to the Theban gods, especially the Theban Triad (Amun, Mut, and Khonsu).

The reliefs also contain sacred symbols, such as the “ankh sign”, which symbolizes life, and the “was scepter”, which symbolizes power and control. These reliefs give the hall a sacred character and make it the spiritual center of the temple..

The ritual significance of the hypostyle hall

The Hypostyle Hall was an important place for rituals and offerings by the king and priests, where the sacred boats were prepared and rituals were performed before they reached the Holy of Holies. The ancient Egyptians saw this hall as the spiritual link between the outside world and the dwelling place of the gods in the Holy of Holies..

Lighting and shadow design

The hypostyle hall is designed to be less lit than the open courtyard, increasing the atmosphere.DarknessAs the visitor advances further inward, the sense of awe and mystery is heightened.

The ceiling gradually decreases in height towards the Holy of Holies, and the rooms become smaller, making the hall seem like a symbolic journey into the hidden world of the gods..

Comparison with the hypostyle halls of other temples

The hypostyle hall of Ramesses III’s temple is similar to the hypostyle halls of other temples, especially the Temple of Khonsu at Karnak Temple Complex, in that it adopts the simplicity of design and the emphasis on the basic symbols of ancient Egyptian temples, but with relatively smaller dimensions.

Its simple design is evidence of the character of the temple dedicated to the worship of the gods at the end of the New Kingdom..

East Corridor and its Views

The eastern gallery contains reliefs of four main ritual scenes of the Feast of Amun.:

• Scene 1:It shows priests carrying the boats of the Theban triad of Amun, Mut and Khonsu, as well as the royal boat of Ramesses III.
• Scene Two:The main barge of Amun, which was about 86 metres long, is shown being lifted by priests and presented to the king.
• Scene 3:King Ramesses III is depicted offering incense and reciting a sacred hymn to the god Amun, holding a silver or gold plaque, on which is written his achievements at Karnak Temple Complex.
• Scene Four:The king offers incense and pours offerings to the sacred boats of Salus of Thebes, Amun, Mut and Khonsu.

Western portico and its views

Scenes related to the festival of the god Min appear, and the inscriptions start from the far right, and consist of four main scenes.:

• First view: The priests are shown in three registers, carrying fans and ceremonial vessels.
• The second view: The king is shown burning incense before a procession bearing the emblems of the god Horus, preceded by Nekhbet for protection. The priests are shown wearing special robes, performing rituals for the god Min that include emblems and the sacred lettuce plant.
• The third view: The king is depicted making offerings to Amun, with priests bowing before the god who represents power and life.
• The fourth view: King Ramesses III is depicted extending his arms in an offering scene, where the god Amun, the symbol of life and rule, appears in his hand, granting the king security and power.

Wall icons and royal inscriptions

The reliefs on the temple walls show multiple images of Ramesses III wearing the double crown, and on either side of the temple entrance, a relief represents the king performing a religious role, surrounded by gods. The reliefs have preserved traces of the original colors that clearly highlight these scenes..

Statues and icons on the main gate

Colossal statues of Ramesses III stand on either side of the entrance, where the king welcomes those entering the temple. The scenes also show two other statues of the king wearing the double crown over the royal nemes, the traditional headdress, in a tradition pioneered by Ramesses II..

Columns in the south portico

The southern portico includes four columns with curtain walls decorated with carvings of the gods, giving the place a sacred atmosphere and making it a sanctuary for rituals.

The design of the portico mimics the design of the second courtyard in the Temple of Habu, indicating the artistic and architectural influence between the temples..

Terrace at the Temple of Ramesses III at Karnak Temple Complex

The terrace (mastaba or elevated portico) in the Temple of Ramesses III at Karnak Temple Complex is an important part of the architectural structure that enhances the beauty and grandeur of the temple. This terrace represents a raised platform used for religious rituals and ceremonial performances and leads to the sacred areas within the temple, making it an essential architectural and functional element in the design of ancient Egyptian temples..

Details of the terrace in the Temple of Ramses III:

• Architectural design:
  • The terrace is built of limestone and extends along the facade of the temple, surrounded by a number of columns and inscriptions that decorate the walls. Its design reflects the style of ancient Egyptian art and architecture..
  • The terrace includes a central staircase leading from the lower levels to the higher areas within the temple, reflecting the sacred sequence of the temple and adding a sense of grandeur when ascending it..
• Religious function:
  • The terrace was used as a place for rituals and religious offerings. It is likely that the priests and the king performed some rituals and ceremonies on this terrace, where they placed offerings, practiced incense rituals and offered holy water to the gods..
  • The terrace is also a place for prayers and the recitation of sacred texts, where priests and individuals participating in rituals can stand on the terrace to approach the sacred statues and renew contact with the gods..
• Inscriptions and decorations:
  • The terrace is decorated with detailed carvings depicting King Ramesses III in various scenes of worship and offerings, where the king is shown offering sacrifices, flowers and incense to the gods..
  • The inscriptions on the terrace include texts glorifying the king and describing his military victories and religious devotion, surrounded by symbols of the gods and the king’s titles as evidence of his loyalty to the gods and his support for maintaining Egypt’s stability..
• Royal Rituals and Ceremonies:
  • The terrace is also believed to have been used for major ceremonial rituals, such as the Opet Festival and other religious festivals, where the king and priests would lead ceremonial processions that would start from the temple courtyard and end at the terrace, where statues and sacred boats would be placed and offerings would be made to the gods..
  • During these celebrations, the terrace served as a platform from which the people could watch the rituals, reinforcing the people’s connection to the deities and to the king as a representative of the gods..

Symbolism of the terrace in the temple of Ramses III

The terrace in the temple of Ramesses III represents a symbol of closeness to the gods and an expression of the sacred status of the king, as it indicates his role as a mediator between the people and the gods. The terrace, with its elevated design and rich engravings, reflects the status of the king and his role in ensuring prosperity and stability for Egypt through religious rituals, and enhances the prestige of the temple as a great religious and spiritual center that embodies the greatness of ancient Egyptian civilization..

Holy of Holies

It is the most sacred part of the temple of Ramesses III in the Karnak Temple Complex, and is located at the end of the temple after passing through the hypostyle hall.

The Holy of Holies has great religious significance, as it represents the place designated for placing the statue of the god Amun, and is considered a symbol of the divine presence and the place where the king and the priests meet with the god during rituals.

Location and architectural design

The Holy of Holies is located in the innermost and most protected part of the temple, and was designed to be less lit and smaller in size, giving it an air of mystery and sanctity. It consists of a main room surrounded by smaller rooms used to store religious objects and sacred vessels used in rituals..

Atmosphere of holiness and symbolism

The Holy of Holies is designed in a way that increases the sense of awe, as it increasesDarknessIts ceiling becomes lower as the visitor approaches the interior. This atmosphere symbolizes the gradual transition from the outside world to the sacred world of the gods, making the arrival at the Holy of Holies a profound spiritual journey..

Placement of the statue of the god Amun

The statue of the god Amun, who represented the protector god of Egypt, was placed in the Holy of Holies, surrounded by complete secrecy, and only the priests and the king were allowed to enter this place during religious rituals and celebrations.

The presence of the statue of the god Amun was considered a symbol of the king’s power and the legitimacy of his rule, as the king would come to ask for the god’s blessing and confirm his support in ruling the country.

The ritual significance of the Holy of Holies

The Holy of Holies was the final stop for the sacred boats during ceremonies, where religious rituals were prepared and offerings were made to the god. During these rituals, the king acted as an intermediary between the people and the god, asking for the god’s blessing for the country.

The ancient Egyptians believed that the presence of the statue of the god Amun in the Holy of Holies brought protection, strength and prosperity to Egypt..

Religious inscriptions and symbols

The walls of the Holy of Holies are decorated with sacred carvings and religious symbols depicting King Ramesses III offering sacrifices and performing rituals before the statue of the god Amun.

These carvings include the symbols of life, the “ankh”, the “was scepter” symbolizing power, and the “djed pillar” symbolizing stability and steadfastness. These symbols confirm the legitimacy of the king and highlight the spiritual relationship between the king and the god..

The road leading to the temple of Ramses III at Karnak Temple Complex

The road leading to the Temple of Ramesses III in the Karnak Temple Complex is distinguished by the Avenue of Sphinxes, which runs between the dock and the Second Pylon, and is considered a symbol of the sanctity of the place and its divine protection.

Statues of rams are distributed on both sides of the road, and they are statues embodying the god Amun with a ram’s head, as it is believed that rams express the protection of the gods for the temple and the king.

Avenue of Sphinxes and Religious Symbolism

The Avenue of Sphinxes was the main passage for the royal and religious processions during the ceremonies, passing from the dock to the first and second pylons.

After the construction of the first pylon in the Thirtieth Dynasty, some of the ram statues were moved to the sides adjacent to the first pylon, to be arranged in line with the new layout of the temple..

Statues and inscriptions accompanying the road

As you approach the temple, you are greeted by huge statues of King Ramses III in front of the first pylon, where the king is shown standing crowned with the double crown on his shoulders, as if welcoming those entering the temple.

These statues symbolize the king’s power and his connection to the god Amun, and add a sense of grandeur to the path leading to the temple..

The ritual significance of the road

The road leading to the temple of Ramesses III was part of the route taken by the sacred barges during festivals such as the Opet Festival, when the barges passed through it on their way from Karnak Temple Complex to Luxor.

On these occasions, priests and ritual participants would stand along the road carrying offerings and ritual flags, enhancing the sanctity of the road and its religious significance..

Changing the location of the rams after building the first monument

After the first pylon was built later, the ram statues that had extended from the dock were moved to a new location near the first pylon, where they were arranged on both sides of the road leading to the pylon, to be part of the expansion that was added to the Karnak Temple Complex.

The Avenue of Sphinxes as an extension of the sanctity of the place

The road leading to the Temple of Ramesses III, especially with the presence of rams and royal scenes, is an extension of the sanctity of the place, as it expresses the protection of the god Amun and gives a sense of awe and appreciation to the temple..

Amun’s Chamber – East Wall

In the chapel of Amun, specifically on the eastern wall, the reliefs show a scene of the king following the Great Ennead. The king is shown worshipping the sacred barque of Amun, which is placed on a base inside the chapel.

Beside the king are the Ennead (a group of major deities) who accompany him as he performs the sacred service to the barque of the god Ra..

The Great Ennead: The Great Ennead contains a number of gods arranged in rows. The top row runs from right to left and includes the following gods:

• Amon
• Atom
• what
• Tefnut
• Jab

In the middle row, we find:

• Note
• Osiris
• Isis
• six
• Nephthys

As for the last record, it includes additional gods who do not belong to the Great Ennead, but are considered major gods, such as::

• Horus
• Hathor
• Sobek

King and Sacred Boat Scene: The king is shown in the reliefs offering incense, as a means of spiritual purification, to the sacred barque of Amun. In the right corner of the scene, a door leading to an eastern annual chamber is visible, reflecting the importance of this part of the chapel for its connection with religious rituals.

Details of the Holy Ship: The sacred boat has a ram’s head, symbolizing the god Amun. The divine boat is preceded by a group of gods, while the king appears as a sphinx, reinforcing his association with the gods in this religious context.

Inscriptions and texts: The texts on the boat display praises and prayers that show the sanctity of Amun. These texts also highlight the majesty of the king as he performs rituals. The inscriptions are also interspersed with religious symbols such as the ankh sign, which represents eternal life, as well as symbols of various deities.

Other details on the east wall: The wall is surrounded by multiple inscriptions including the king and other royal icons, and beneath the complex are a group of shields and divine signs, including the ankh, figures representing goats and icons of the gods.

The sacred boat in the chapel of Amun

The sacred boat appears in the chapel of Amun on the east wall. With a sacred royal design, the god Amun sits at the front of the boat with a ram’s head, the symbol that represents Amun and expresses his divine power..

Complex details:

• ram’s head: The ram’s head was placed at the front of the boat, reflecting the symbolism of Amun as the main god in ancient Egypt. The ram stands out as a symbol of wisdom and strength.
• attendant gods: The boat is preceded by a group of deities, such as the goddess Maat and the goddess Hathor, and the king personified as a sphinx. These deities face north, expressing a religious unity between the king and the gods of Egypt.

Royal Group Around the Complex:

Behind the foreground gods, the king is depicted as a sphinx, symbolizing his power, wisdom, and role as protector of Egypt, participating in the procession of the gods.

In a second group behind the king, statues of sphinxes and two other kings are shown offering worship to the goddess Isis, who is shown with her wings outstretched to protect the boat, and holding the signs of life (ankhs) in her hands.

Royal Ritual Scene:

In this ritual, King Ramesses III is shown performing a sacred role before the shrine of Amun, where the gods bless him, and he is again shown offering incense to the divine boat, indicating the depth of the rituals associated with the boat as a symbol of Amun and as a tool for conveying blessings and protection to the Egyptian land.

Sacred boat inscriptions:

The ship’s inscriptions include several religious symbols:

• Ankh signs:which represents eternal life and surrounds the boat.
• sacred textsIt tops the boat and contains hymns to the god Amun and expressions.Praise Him, embodying the divine majesty of this complex..

Symbolism of the complex:

The sacred boat represents the god Amun and reflects the king’s connection to the gods and his commitment to protecting Egypt and maintaining its religious and political balance.

Shrine of the goddess Mut

The Shrine of the Goddess Mut is an important part of the Shrine Collection. Karnak Temple Complex,This shrine reflects the sanctity of the goddess Mut, wife of Amun, and embodies her role as protector and royal patron.

The carvings on the shrine walls feature religious scenes showing the king in his rituals and offerings to the goddess Mut, observing purity and giving instructions to those entering..

Interior details of the death cabin:

• Entrance and royal inscriptions: On either side of the entrance, we find inscriptions showing the king greeting those entering, indicating the importance of purity upon entry, and presenting offerings to the goddess Mut. Royal inscriptions are prominent on the walls and thresholds, expressing the king’s role as a priest performing purity rituals.
• East wall: On the eastern wall of the shrine, a double scene of the king is seen above the entrance to the staircase, offering wine to the goddess Mut, and in another scene the king is shown offering bouquets of flowers to Mut’s sacred boat, which is placed on a base inside the shrine.
• Royal ritual scenes: King Ramesses III appears before the sacred barge of Mut, offering bouquets of flowers and various offerings. These scenes express the king’s communication with the gods and his supplication for blessings.

Details of the Holy Ship of Death:

• Holy Death Complex: The boat is placed on a base inside the cabin, and represents part of the ritual of honoring the goddess. Ramesses III is shown in the reliefs offering flowers to the boat in a ritual expressing honor and purification.
• West wall of the cabin: On the opposite wall, we find a scene similar to the eastern wall, where the king appears again with the goddess Mut in front of the sacred boat, and the same details are repeated to emphasize the importance of the ritual.
• South wall: On the southern wall of the chapel, the king appears in a double scene offering fragrant ointments to the goddess Mut, indicating the sacred character of this chapel and its role in rituals of purification and care for the gods.

Royal Titles:

The king’s titles were inscribed on lintels and walls, enhancing his prestige as a representative of the gods and dedicated to their service, especially when offering sacrifices and incense, essential to royal ritual..

Death chamber symbolism:T his shrine embodies the king’s role in providing care for the goddess Mut as part of the sacred Theban triad, and highlights the king’s importance as high priest of the gods, undertaking the tasks of purification and honor to increase the blessing of the temple and protect Egypt.

Shrine of the god Khonsu

The Khonsu Shrine is one of the important shrines in the Karnak Temple Complex. The shrine highlights the importance of the god Khonsu, son of Amun and Mut, and his role as a moon god and one of the Theban Triad. The shrine contains detailed reliefs of the king performing offerings to Khonsu..

Interior details of Khonsu cabin:

• Entrance and royal inscriptions: On the outer entrance, we find royal inscriptions and titles that glorify the king and highlight his role as a devoted priest, honoring the god Khonsu. The inscriptions include scenes showing the king offering sacrifices and performing rituals in the presence of the gods.
• East wall: The eastern wall of the shrine shows a relief of the king offering sacred fluids to the god Khonsu. The wall is damaged, causing some details in the relief to disappear, but the scene of Khonsu’s sacred boat still stands on a base, an essential part of royal ritual.
• King scene with Hathor: In one part of the reliefs, the king appears alongside the goddess Hathor, offering liquids and incense, indicating the importance of Hathor in the rituals performed inside the shrine.

Details of the sacred boat of Khonsu:

• Khonsu’s Sacred Ship: The boat appears in reliefs on a base inside the cabin, where the king is offering flowers and offerings to it, and this scene is believed to reflect a tradition of ritual renewal and honor associated with the gods.
• West wall of the cabin: On the western wall, another scene of the king offering flowers to Khonsu is shown, and the details of the boat are clear despite some damage to the inscription.
• South wall: The southern wall contains a double scene of the king receiving the breath of life from the god Khonsu. The inscriptions on this wall highlight the importance of royal rituals as the king offers two offerings of wine to Khonsu sitting on the throne, and the text says that Khonsu grants the king courage, health and longevity.

side room:

• Interior details of the side room: This room contains additional reliefs showing the king offering liquids to the gods Amun and Mut, with the goddess Hathor appearing next to him, promising him many blessings. This room is considered to be dedicated to purification and preparation for rituals, and contains the king’s titles on the thresholds and walls.

Symbolism of the Khonsu Shrine:

The reliefs in the Khonsu Shrine show the king’s role as a priest-servant of the goddess, communicating with the god Khonsu and receiving blessings through ritual offerings and purification. These reliefs reflect the king’s appreciation of the god Khonsu and his role as moon god and protector of the king and the Egyptian people, reinforcing the sanctity of the shrine and its importance in royal ritual..

The most important inscriptions and scenes in the temple

Amun-Kemute-ef inscription in the temple of Ramesses III

In one of the reliefs in the temple of Ramesses III, the god Amun appears as “Kemute-ef”.“, a unique form that expresses aspects of fertility and power. Amun is depicted in this relief with distinctive features; he appears shrouded in a robe that wraps around his entire body, with his right arm extended, and his erect penis visible, symbolizing the fertile energy that was attributed to the god Amun. Behind the god, there is a lettuce plant, which was considered a sacred plant and a symbol of the fertility of the god Min, who is also associated with Amun in this context.

This inscription in particular shows the ability of King Ramesses III to communicate with Amun in this symbolic form, and reflects his role as a regenerator of life and a giver of fertility, which was considered essential to ensure the continuity of the king’s rule, and to achieve peace and prosperity in ancient Egypt..

Inscription in the temple of Ramesses III

In the distinctive relief in the temple of Ramesses III, King Ramesses III is shown wearing the double crown, holding the hair of a group of enemies and preparing to strike them with the war whip, in a scene expressing strength and victory over Egypt’s enemies. The king stands in the presence of the god Amun, who grants him strength and blessings to achieve victory..

In this relief, Amun presents Ramesses III with a sword, a clear symbol of power and royal authority. Amun is shown holding three ropes dragging three rows of captives, these captives are represented in an oval shape, a layout that expresses the enclosure or fortress. These captives represent various enemies of Egypt, among them some with Nubian features, reflecting the multiple victories achieved by King Ramesses III.

This inscription is considered one of the traditional scenes that show the king in the position of a victorious military leader, and enhances his legitimacy and power before the people, and also confirms the close alliance between him and the god Amun..

Inscription in the temple of Ramesses III

The king is also shown in a similar scene, where he is depicted in the presence of the god Amun, dominating his enemies and preparing to strike them.

The main difference here is that the king is wearing only the red crown, which symbolizes Lower Egypt, whereas in the previous relief he was wearing the double crown. This scene expresses the king’s control over Lower Egypt, whereas in the previous relief he shows his control over Upper Egypt, symbolizing the unification of the country under his rule..

The inscription also shows the god Amun carrying the sword of power, and holding three ropes representing captives with Asian features, who represent the Asian enemies of Egypt. These captives are depicted in oval shapes that represent the castles or fortresses that are being occupied, and each captive appears tied from behind..

This scene represents the king’s victory and the demonstration of power and control, but in this inscription it focuses on the embodiment of Lower Egypt and the symbolism of kingship, and reinforces the legitimacy of Ramesses III as ruler of the whole country, and emphasizes the strength of the alliance between him and the god Amun..

The drawing

It shows a religious scene in which the god Amun sits in a majestic position on his throne, and King Ramesses III stands before him offering homage and reverence. This relief represents one of the most important scenes of worship that confirms the king’s relationship with Amun as the main god of Egypt and shows the king’s closeness to the gods as a means of confirming the legitimacy of his rule.

Drawing details

• King Ramses III appears standing before Amun, offering incense and offerings, in a religious ritual expressing respect and reverence..
• The god Amun sitting on his throne, holding a scepter.The Was, a symbol of rule and control, gives Ramses III his power and protection.
• On the reverse side of the inscription are royal titles and decorations that emphasize the king’s status and his special relationship with the god Amun..

Symbolism of the drawing

This scene reflects the rituals performed by the king to strengthen his connection with the gods, especially Amun, who was considered the patron god of kingship in Egypt..

Engraving

At the main entrance to the temple, a group of symbolic and architectural details appear, but some parts of this inscription It was destroyed, and only a stone block remained.

The remaining details in the inscription

• The relief shows King Ramesses III standing before the god Amun, in a sacred reception position, as the king appears to welcome the god Amun as he enters the temple..
• The part on the left side (north): It shows a royal scene, where there is the royal uraeus and royal decorations that show the presence of the king in the entrance ceremony, a scene that symbolizes the permanent welcome and divine support.

Door shadow

This inscription contains a part called the door shadow, which is the part covered by the door when it is open, so no inscriptions or scenes of the king appear on it, because it is not visible when the door is closed. From the inscription, scenes are shown on the upper lintel of the entrance, where the king appears in sanctifying positions in which he offers sacrifices to the gods.

• Upper lintel: It shows a double scene, showing King Ramesses III offering wine to the god Amun-Min, and other scenes showing the king offering an image of “Maat”.“(Symbol of justice and order) of the seated god Amun, accompanied by the god Khonsu.

Symbolism of engraving

This relief represents the entrance facade to the temple, and reflects religious ceremonies, as the king is shown performing sacred tasks that confirm his legitimacy as a ruler and highlight his close relationship with the gods..

East side engraving

On the eastern side of the temple, King Ramesses III is shown standing performing a religious ritual before the god Amun.The king is represented wearing the royal cobra, holding a tambourine under the protection of the symbol of the goddess Nekhbet, and extending his hand to receive three signs called the Habsed festivals, the festivals of renewing the king’s rule, hung on a palm branch held by Amun in his right hand.

In this scene, the palm frond shows the years of the king’s life and reign, while Amun holds in his left hand the “was” scepter.”, a symbol of rule and control, from which emerges the Djed column, a symbol of stability and steadfastness, and from which emerges the Ankh sign, which symbolizes life. This symbolic composition shows Amun granting the king a long life full of stability and power.

Below this scene, four figures representing the Nile god Hapi are shown, representing the regions of Lower Egypt, where they offer sacrifices to the god Amun, including the city of Memphis or the White Wall, which was the capital of Egypt in ancient times..

This inscription represents a symbolic scene expressing the divine support that Amun gives to King Ramses III, and confirms the length of his reign and the stability of his rule over Egypt..

View of the celebration of the Feast of Amun (Feast of the Father)

The Feast of Amun, or the Feast of Ipet, was one of the most important religious festivals in ancient Egypt, and is depicted magnificently on the exterior reliefs of the Karnak Temple Complex.

This festival honors the god Amun and includes a great procession of sacred boats, in which the statues of the Theban Triad – Amun, Mut, and Khonsu – are carried from Karnak Temple Complex to Luxor Temple across the Nile, and back to Karnak in a ritual that reflects rebirth, fertility, and renewal..

Details of the scene of the celebration of the festival of Amun – Karnak Temple Complex:

• Holy boats:
  • Amun’s ship “Eserhat: The Amun boat is one of the most important sacred boats of the festival, and is clearly depicted in the inscriptions. It is noted that the boat is distinguished by its royal design and is decorated with the symbol of the ram’s head, which represents Amun. The inscriptions mention that King Ramses III restored this boat, reflecting its importance and the king’s keenness to renew religious icons.
  • The boat of the goddess Mut and the god Khonsu: The boats of the goddess Mut and the god Khonsu are also shown, pulled by small boats in the great procession.
• Procession and transportation:
  • The procession involved the transportation of the sacred vessels on royal boats and a fleet of small boats. The inscriptions detail this procession in great detail, as we see the boats being pulled against the current of the Nile, sailing from north to south, symbolizing the sacred journey from Karnak Temple to Luxor Temple..
  • small boats: The main boats are accompanied by boats carrying rowers, musicians, singers and dancers, reflecting an atmosphere of joy and celebration, some of whom carry trumpets, tambourines and chains.
• Royal Complex Details:
  • The royal boat of King Ramesses III is noted for participating in the celebration accompanied by a fleet of small boats. The image of the king appears twice on the front of the boat, symbolizing his central position in this religious ritual and the importance of his support for Amun and the Theban Triad..

Symbolism of the celebration of the feast of Amun:

The Abet Festival is a central ritual in ancient Egypt, reflecting the connection of the god Amun to the people, the renewal of life, and the forces of nature. This celebration is an annual reminder of the importance of Amun as the main god of Egypt, and reinforces the king’s position as a representative of the gods and a giver of life and blessings to the people through his loyalty to Amun and the revival of these glorious rituals..

Priests masturbation scene

In the temples of ancient Egypt, the ritual of masturbation was an ancient religious ritual practiced with the aim of renewal and re-enactment of the first creation process. In some ancient Egyptian inscriptions, this ritual appears in a symbolic or ritual form, as it was believed that the masturbation of the god (especially the creator god) was part of the first creation process by which the universe came into being, through the creation of the primordial waters and the emergence of life..

Details of masturbation ritual in the inscriptions

• Weather and its relationship to the Creator God:
  • The god Atum, who represents self-creation, is often referred to as having masturbated in Egyptian creation myths. Through this act, he created the twin gods Shu and Tefnut, setting in motion the process of creation..
  • The purpose of this ritual was to remind priests and participants of the Creator God’s ability to achieve self-creation, a symbolic idea that highlights the idea of ​​renewal and rebirth of life..
• Water symbolism:
  • In ancient Egyptian belief, water was the primary source of all living things, so the ritual act of masturbation was associated with the re-release of the primordial waters, which were considered an essential element of creation..
• Rituals of renewal and fertility:
  • These rituals were symbolically represented on some major religious occasions, especially on festivals and celebrations that expressed fertility and growth..
  • The primary purpose of reenacting the creation ritual was to bring blessings, increase fertility, honor the gods, and enhance the creative and regenerative powers of nature..
• The role of priests:
  • The priests did not practice this ritual literally, but rather re-enacted it in symbolic ways, as it appears in the inscriptions as a symbolic celebration that re-enacts the process of creation without actually carrying it out..

Weather symbolism in temples

These rituals were symbolically and artistically represented in temples to enhance religious understanding of the world and how it came into being..

View of the feast of the god Min

The Feast of Min is one of the most important festivals in ancient Egypt, also known as the “harvest” or “fertility” festival. The god Min was considered the god of fertility and agriculture, especially agriculture associated with the growth of crops and the agricultural seasons.

This festival appears magnificently in Egyptian inscriptions, reflecting the celebration of Min’s generosity, which brings fertility to the land and ensures abundance and good harvests for the Egyptian people..

Details of the scene of the feast of the god Min in the inscriptions

• Symbolism of the god Min:
  • The god Min is depicted in reliefs in a distinctive manner, often standing in a position that indicates his ability to achieve fertility and growth, holding the penis in his right hand as a symbol of the ability to create, while holding a whip in his other hand..
  • It is surrounded by some agricultural plants, such as wheat or barley, which expresses its close connection to agricultural crops and their abundance..
• Whose Eid rituals?:
  • The Min festival is celebrated at the beginning of the harvest season, when priests and people gather to offer sacrifices to the god and implore him to ensure a fruitful agricultural season. The rituals include offering fruits and plants growing in the fields as part of the tributes and offerings..
  • Priests perform rituals in temples, where praises and hymns to the god Min are recited, musicians play and dances are performed..
• Procession of the god Min:
  • The relief often includes scenes of the king participating in the procession, making offerings and vows to the god Min, and raising special banners or flags, reflecting his role as high priest and mediator between the people and the gods..
  • The procession of priests and the king, carrying flags and sacred symbols, advances and tours around the temple..
• Harvest scenes:
  • Some of the inscriptions include harvest scenes, showing farmers harvesting wheat and barley, reflecting the agricultural importance of the festival and Min’s role in ensuring abundant crops..
  • These scenes include a festive atmosphere in the fields, showing farmers in their traditional clothes, working hard to collect grain..

Symbolism of the feast of the god Min

The festival of the god Min is a celebration of fertility and agricultural growth, and reflects the ancient Egyptians’ appreciation of the god Min as a guarantor of abundance in the harvest seasons.

The inscriptions depict the celebrations of a people dependent on abundant crops, and reinforce the king’s association with his role as high priest who offered thanks to Min for ensuring the food security of the people and the prosperity of the nation..

Daily service views and opening of cabins

The daily service rituals and the opening of the shrines were essential religious rituals in the temples of ancient Egypt, performed by priests to ensure the continued blessing and care of the gods for the people. These daily rituals included a series of steps starting with the opening of the shrines containing the statues of the gods and the presentation of offerings to them, in addition to the rituals of purification and re-closing the shrines..

Details of daily service scenes and opening of cabins:

• Open the compartments:
  • The priests would open the doors of the shrines containing the statues of the gods every morning, and the inscription shows the priests lifting the seals and opening the doors with a ceremony expressing respect and reverence..
  • This step is considered an important part of the ritual to ensure the symbolic presence of the gods in people’s daily lives, as opening the shrines symbolizes inviting the gods to interact with the priests and the community..
• purification ritual:
  • After opening the shrines, priests perform a purification ritual that includes sprinkling holy water and offering incense. Reliefs show priests carrying vessels of holy water or offering incense as part of the purification process aimed at cleansing the space and the statue, reflecting the belief that purity is an integral part of any religious ritual..
  • The purification ritual is accompanied by the recitation of prayers and hymns that express respect to the gods and ask for blessings and protection..
• Offering sacrifices:
  • The king or priests are shown in the reliefs offering various types of offerings, including flowers, food, drinks, and sometimes small symbolic statues. It is noted that the offerings varied according to daily and monthly need, and each offering is believed to have a specific meaning and role in bringing blessings..
  • This scene is repeated daily as offerings are made and placed in front of the statue of the god in the shrine, expressing loyalty and devotion to the gods..
• Close the cabins:
  • After the offerings and rituals are over, the priests close the doors of the shrines again, and the doors are sealed with special seals. This seal is an important part of protecting the statue of the god during the day and ensuring that its energy and power are preserved until the next ritual..
  • The inscriptions at this stage reflect an atmosphere of respect and concentration, as closing the chamber is a pivotal step to ensure that the gods are safe..

Symbolism of daily service and opening of the cabins

These religious rituals represent the commitment of the priests and the king to the care of the gods and the protection of their sacred statues, and are considered the means by which the power of the gods is renewed and their continued support and protection of Egypt and its people is ensured.

The scenes of daily service and the opening of shrines reflect the ancient Egyptians’ connection to the world of the gods, as the rituals strengthened the spiritual relationship between the people and their gods, and ensured the continuation of harmony and cosmic order..

View of the coronation of Amun to the king

The coronation of the king by Amun is one of the most important royal and religious scenes in the Karnak temples, as it highlights the close relationship between the king and the gods, especially Amun, who is considered the supreme god and protector of Egypt.

This scene represents the legitimization of the king’s rule through the blessing and support of Amun, and shows the role of the king as a mediator between the gods and the people, which reinforces his status as a sacred ruler.

Coronation scene details:

• The King in the Presence of the God Amun:
  • King Ramesses III is shown in the scene standing before Amun, wearing a ceremonial crown that expresses his authority. This crown reflects the king’s power and wisdom, and emphasizes the sacred status he holds thanks to the support of Amun..
  • Amun presents the ankh, symbolizing eternal life, and the wus, symbolizing power, as a gift to the king, expressing divine support for him during his reign..
• Amun as coronation god:
  • Amun is depicted in this scene as a god who grants legitimacy to the king. Amun is clearly shown with his double-feathered crown that distinguishes him from other gods, reflecting his majesty and glory as a chief god..
  • In his hand, Amun holds the symbol of “Wos”, which symbolizes power and protection, presenting it to the king, expressing his granting of the authority and power necessary to rule..
• Share with other gods:
  • In some coronation scenes, other deities such as Maat (goddess of truth and order) may appear alongside Amun, symbolizing that the king’s rule follows the values ​​of justice and order represented by Maat..
  • Ma’at contributes to the coronation ritual by affirming the king’s commitment to the principles of truth and justice in his rule, as she blesses the scene and stands beside the king as a sign of divine approval..
• Royal Titles and Texts:
  • The scene is surrounded by inscriptions bearing the king’s titles, emphasizing his status and ability to rule thanks to the support of the gods, and extolling texts praising the king’s wisdom, courage and strength..
  • The inscriptions also include prayers and hymns asking Amun to protect the king and grant him a long life and prosperous reign, reinforcing his status as a divine ruler who derived his power from the gods..

Symbolism of the coronation scene:

The coronation scene of Amun is a clear symbol of the relationship between the king and the gods, and reinforces the legitimacy of Ramesses III’s rule thanks to the divine blessing and support he receives from Amun. These scenes reflect the king’s commitment to performing his religious and worldly duties to the fullest, which enhances the stability of Egypt and the continuation of the cosmic order, and confirms that the king is the mediator between the gods and the people, and ensures the prosperity of the kingdom with the wisdom and guidance of Amun..

Ahmose Nefertari view

Queen Ahmose-Nefertari is considered one of the most important royal figures in the history of ancient Egypt, and she played a pivotal role in the Eighteenth Dynasty, as she was the wife of King Ahmose I and the mother of King Amenhotep I. Ahmose-Nefertari is highly regarded, not only for her political role but also for her religious status, as she was honored as a goddess after her death..

Details of the scene of Ahmose-Nefertari in the inscriptions:

• Character and royal clothing:
  • Queen Ahmose-Nefertari is depicted in the reliefs in her distinctive royal attire, wearing a crown on her head that includes the crown of the goddess Hathor, with the sun disk and two high feathers, symbolizing her greatness and sanctity. Her crown is also associated with the goddess of fertility and the protection of children, reinforcing her status as a symbol of motherhood and tenderness..
  • She is often depicted in sumptuous clothing and majestic decorations that reflect her sophistication and esteem, including a long royal robe and gilded earrings, reflecting the elegance and nobility of the queen..
• Ahmose-Nefertari as a goddess:
  • Ahmose-Nefertari was honored as a goddess after her death, especially in the southern regions of Egypt, and was worshipped with her son Amenhotep I as part of the Theban triad. In these reliefs, she is seen receiving offerings from the priests, symbolizing protection and care for the people..
  • In some reliefs, Ahmose-Nefertari is shown sitting on her throne and receiving offerings or praises from priests and kings, highlighting her role as a protective goddess and guarantor of blessings..
• Texts accompanying the inscriptions:
  • The inscriptions are decorated with texts glorifying the queen, describing her with her royal and religious titles such as “Lady of Upper and Lower Egypt” and “Great Royal Wife,” and referring to her as a sacred mother of the Egyptians..
  • The texts also include expressions of the blessing and protection she offers to the people, as Ahmose-Nefertari is considered a symbol of goodness and prosperity, and enhances the status of her family that founded the Eighteenth Dynasty..
• Her connection to the gods:
  • Ahmose-Nefertari appears in reliefs alongside deities such as Amun and Ra, reflecting her spiritual connection and closeness to the gods, and her role as a mediator between the gods and the people..
  • In some scenes, the queen is seen alongside the god Amun, indicating that she receives his blessing and support, and reinforcing her role as an Egyptian mother who protects her people and ensures the stability of the kingdom..

Symbolism of the Ahmose-Nefertari scene

The representation of Ahmose-Nefertari in the reliefs represents a symbol of motherhood and religious and political authority. She was not just a queen, but the founder of royal legitimacy and divine protection for Egypt.

Her posthumous veneration shows that she remains a symbol of fertility, protection and nurture, and the reliefs are a testament to her prominent role as a protective mother and a revered and respected divine queen..

View of the presentation of the clothes boxes and the four bulls

In the temple of Ramesses III at Karnak Temple Complex, the scene of the offering of the chests of clothes and the four bulls reflects the royal ritual of offering gifts and sacrifices to the gods, which aims to ask for divine blessings, protection and support.

This scene is part of the periodic royal rituals and reflects the king’s appreciation of the gods and his offering of what brings goodness and fertility to the land and people.

Details of the presentation of the clothes boxes and the four bulls:

• Providing clothing boxes:
  • The relief shows King Ramesses III or priests offering boxes filled with precious clothes and fine fabrics as an offering to the god. Clothes were considered important offerings in ancient Egypt, symbolizing purity and chastity and being a sacred element offered in rituals..
  • The clothing boxes are shown in the relief with an ornate design that reflects their value, and are carried with care and placed before the statue of the god as a token of appreciation. The boxes may also contain pieces of linen or other fabrics used in the daily rituals in the temple to change the clothing of the divine statues..
• The Four Bulls:
  • Along with the clothing boxes, the king or priests offer four bulls as an important offering, as the bull is considered a symbol of strength and fertility and is used in agricultural rituals to ensure the fertility of the land and crops..
  • The four bulls are shown being carefully led to be offered as sacrifices, and are decorated and perhaps bearing symbolic scarves or ornaments to highlight their status as sacred offerings to the god Amun, expressing the commitment to offer the best of the kingdom to the gods..
  • Bulls also represent a symbol of strength and courage, as they were seen to bring prosperity and maintain cosmic order when offered to the gods..
• Ritual atmosphere:
  • The offering is accompanied by a ceremonial ritual in which priests recite incantations and prayers, and there may be music and an atmosphere of incense and light, expressing purity and sanctification during the offering of clothes and bulls..
  • This scene embodies the role of the king as chief of rituals and highest priest, and reflects his duty to offer gifts that please the gods to ensure continued blessing and protection for Egypt..

Symbolism of offering the boxes of clothes and the four bulls

This scene represents the king’s commitment to offering his best to the gods, reflecting the importance of royal rituals and sacrifices to ensure the gods’ satisfaction and support for Egypt. The clothing is shown as a symbol of purity and sanctification, while the bulls represent strength and fertility, both of which are essential elements to ensure the continuity and prosperity of the kingdom..

View of lighting the lanterns

The lighting of the lamps in the Temple of Ramesses III at Karnak is an important daily ritual, as it highlights the priests’ interest in providing light inside the shrines and temples, which is considered a symbol of the radiance of the gods and their divine presence in the lives of the Egyptians. Lighting the lamps was intended to dispel darkness and bring light, reflecting the idea of ​​purity and purification and the importance of light as a symbol of divine presence..

Details of the lantern lighting scene:

• Preparatory rituals:
  • The reliefs show priests preparing to light the lamps inside the sacred chambers, where they begin purification rituals, such as sprinkling holy water and offering incense, ensuring the purity of the space before the introduction of light..
  • The lamps are often carried on tall metal or clay stands and filled with oil. The lamps may be decorated with symbolic carvings and motifs expressing purity and sanctity..
• lighting the lanterns:
  • In the scene, the priest is seen holding a wick and lighting the lamps, using the sacred fire specially prepared from the fire guarded by the priests. The wick is seen burning to provide light to the lamp, making the place illuminated, as if the presence of the gods fills the cabin..
  • The burning lanterns reflect the idea of ​​life and purity, as light in ancient Egypt was considered a symbol of existence and life, and lighting the lanterns expresses an invitation to the gods to appear in the Holy of Holies..
• Ritual atmosphere:
  • These rituals are accompanied by prayers and hymns chanted by priests to honor the gods, and incense and perfumes are offered to make the atmosphere pure and holy. Together, light and incense are believed to create a purifying energy that attracts the presence of the gods..
  • Lighting lanterns is an essential ritual performed in the morning or evening, as this ritual ensures the presence of light that drives away the forces of darkness and symbolizes the presence of the gods..

Symbolism of lighting lanterns

The lighting of the lamps symbolizes divine light and purity within the Karnak Temple, and reflects the ancient Egyptians’ desire to ensure the presence of the gods in their temples through constant light. Light was considered a symbol of purity and protection, and reflected the priests’ commitment to ensuring the sanctity of the temple and keeping darkness away from the gods and the sacred place..

View of the King, Userhat and the Ship

The scene of King Ramses III with the divine boat “Userhat” is considered one of the most prominent ritual and religious scenes in the Karnak Temple, and reflects the importance of the rituals performed to honor the god Amun and confirm the legitimacy of the king and his rule, as the king appears in a festive scene with the divine boat, which is one of the sacred religious symbols associated with the god Amun..

Details of the scene of the king, Userhat and the divine boat:

• King Ramses III and the Divine Boat:
  • King Ramesses III is shown standing in the presence of the divine barge Userhat, which symbolizes the god Amun. The king is depicted in luxurious ceremonial clothing and his royal crown, expressing his greatness and his role as High Priest of the god Amun, reflecting his commitment to protecting and honoring the gods..
  • In the relief, the king offers sacrifices and incense to the divine boat, which is carried on special stands or lifted by priests, and the light emanating from the boat appears as a symbol of purity and holiness..
• The Divine Ship “Userhat“:
  • The Divine Boat “Userhat” is a boat dedicated to the god Amun, and is considered part of the great rituals at the Karnak Temple Complex. The boat appears in the relief in a luxurious design, decorated with a ram’s head, a symbol of the god Amun, along with other decorative details expressing the sanctity of the boat and its role as a means of transport for the gods..
  • The divine boat is surrounded by inscriptions describing the titles of Amun and expressing his power and protection of Egypt, reinforcing the belief in the power of Amun and his ability to bring blessings and prosperity..
• The role of priests in the ritual:
  • The inscription shows a number of priests accompanying the divine boat, carrying sacred covers and symbols and chanting prayers and hymns. The inscriptions highlight the role of the priests as assistants to the king in performing rituals, as they carry the boat and surround it to protect it..
  • The priests act as the king’s primary assistants, and they follow precise steps to ensure that the rituals are performed correctly, reflecting the importance and precision of religious rituals at this stage..
• Texts accompanying the inscription:
  • The scene is surrounded by texts glorifying King Ramesses III and expressing his loyalty and honor to the god Amun, as well as some invocations asking for blessings and strength for the king and the people. The texts focus on royal and religious titles that confirm the legitimacy of the rule and the support of the gods..

Symbolism of the scene of the king, Userhat and the divine boat

The scene of the king and the divine boat “Userhat” represents one of the greatest royal and religious rituals, and reflects the role of Ramesses III as a priest and as a sacred ruler honoring Amun. This scene is considered an affirmation of the king’s legitimacy derived from the approval of the gods and his connection with the god Amun, and expresses the status of Amun as the protector of Egypt and as the main god who blesses the king and the people, which reinforces Egypt’s relationship with its gods and its desire to continue to prosper under the protection of Amun.

Decree of the 16th year of King Ramesses III in the Karnak Temple

The decree of the sixteenth year of the reign of King Ramesses III is one of the important inscriptions found in the Karnak Temple Complex. This decree reflects the religious and political importance of the king, as it documents his decisions and gifts to the god Amun and his temple in Karnak Temple Complex. This decree came as part of the ancient Egyptian tradition to confirm the king’s close relationship with the gods and his keenness to gain their approval by presenting gifts and offerings.

Details of the decree of the sixteenth year of Ramesses III:

• Decree content:
  • The decree shows that Ramesses III made a series of donations and gifts to the temple of Amun at Karnak Temple Complex, which included offerings of land and crops, as well as offerings of bulls, textiles and other religious objects. Through these donations, the king sought to confirm his close relationship with the god Amun and enhance his status as a divine ruler..
  • The decree also includes the king’s commitment to provide fixed resources to the temple on a regular basis to ensure the continuation of daily rituals and religious ceremonies, reflecting his support for honoring the gods and continued prosperity..
• Material and religious gifts:
  • The list of gifts included bulls and cattle to be used as sacrifices, as well as large quantities of fine cloth and textiles, which were used to reupholster the sacred statues in the temple..
  • Offering agricultural crops is part of the gifts, as the priests depended on these resources to perform rituals and make offerings, and the decree shows the king’s generosity and his keenness to provide the necessary resources for Amun.
• Texts of glorification of the king:
  • The inscriptions are surrounded by texts glorifying Ramesses III and highlighting his royal titles, which confirm his status as high priest and representative of the god Amun on earth. These texts indicate that the decree is a sacred royal decree expressing Ramesses III’s loyalty to Amun and his quest for blessings..
  • The inscriptions include phrases blessing the king and wishing him a long life and stable rule, reflecting the importance of this decree as part of strengthening the king’s legitimacy before the people and the priests..
• The political and religious significance of the decree:
  • The decree is a documentation of the king’s dedication to the service of the gods, and shows his support for the temple and priests in preserving religious traditions. It also indicates the importance of religious and political stability during his reign, as he ensured through this decree that the worship of Amun would be preserved and the rituals would continue permanently and stably..
  • The decree shows the religious role of the king, reinforcing his position as protector of Egypt and high priest, highlighting his commitment to protecting and offering sacrifices to the gods to ensure continued prosperity..

Symbolism of the sixteenth year decree

The decree of the 16th year is part of the royal tradition of ancient Egypt, showing the king’s close connection to the gods and his emphasis on providing the necessary resources for the Karnak Temple Complex, a symbol of loyalty to the god Amun. The decree reflects Ramesses III’s royal and religious role in serving the gods and the people, enhancing the stability of the kingdom and emphasizing the importance of the religious system to ensure continued blessing and protection..

Syrian war scenes

The scenes of the Syrian war in the temple of Ramesses III at Karnak Temple Complex are among the most prominent scenes that reflect the king’s strength and bravery in battles, and document his victories over the Syrian enemies. These inscriptions express the king’s role as a great warrior and protector of Egypt, and may represent part of the royal propaganda to enhance his image as a military leader who protects the country from external threats.

Details of the scenes of the Syrian war:

• The King in the Chariot:
  • Ramses III appears in the engravings skillfully driving his chariot in the middle of the battlefield, and appears in a manner that reflects his strength and control over his soldiers, as he directs them to fight the Syrians..
  • The chariot is ornately depicted with two powerful horses beside it, highlighting the royal splendor and the king’s ability to lead armies into battle. The king is surrounded by a number of soldiers who follow him on the battlefield..
• Fighting against Syrians:
  • The Syrians appear in the engravings trying to defend themselves against the attacks of the Egyptian army, as they are drawn in shapes and clothes that distinguish them from the Egyptians, which shows them as enemies and competitors of the Egyptian civilization..
  • The inscriptions highlight the details of the battle, showing Syrian soldiers being killed or captured, and being tied with ropes to be handed over as prisoners, expressing the prestige of the Egyptian army and the king’s power in winning battles..
• Prisoners of war:
  • In one part of the relief, the king is depicted leading Syrian captives after victory in battle. These captives are depicted walking in chains, which is considered a symbol of victory and control..
  • This scene shows the king’s appreciation of Amun and the gods for his victory, and expresses his strength as a military leader capable of protecting Egypt and expanding its influence..
• Military details:
  • The various weapons used include spears, bows and swords, and it appears that the Egyptians had a clear military superiority over the Syrians, highlighting the technological and organizational superiority of the Egyptian army..
  • The details of the inscriptions reflect the state of order and precision that the Egyptian army possessed, which ensured its superiority in battles..

Texts accompanying the inscriptions:

• glorify the king:
  • The battle scenes are surrounded by texts glorifying King Ramesses III, describing him as “the victor,” “the protector of the borders,” and “strong as the god Montu” (the Egyptian god of war), reflecting the king’s connection to the gods and his support..
  • The texts include prayers and titles that refer to the king’s courage and loyalty to Egypt, and pray for his permanent victory and protection from enemies..
• Praying to the gods:
  • The text shows the king thanking the god Amun and other Egyptian gods for their support in the war, expressing the Egyptians’ belief that victory was achieved with the support of the gods..

Symbolism of Syrian war scenes:

The scenes of the Syrian war document the victories of King Ramses III, and reinforce his image as a protector of Egypt and a promoter of its prestige among nations. These inscriptions also reflect political messages aimed at demonstrating Egypt’s strength and superiority over its neighbors, in addition to emphasizing the king’s role as a military leader who protects the country from external threats, and reinforces his position as an inspiring leader for his people and a unifier of the kingdom..

Hand counting scenes

Counting hands scenes in the Temple of Ramesses III at Karnak Temple Complex represent symbolic and practical scenes documenting the king’s victories over enemies, especially in the context of battles and wars. This scene shows an ancient Egyptian tradition, where Egyptian soldiers collect the severed hands of enemies as evidence of the number of enemy deaths, reflecting the military superiority and decisive victory of King Ramesses III.

Hand Counting Scene Details:

• soldiers count hands:
  • The inscriptions show Egyptian soldiers collecting the severed hands of their enemies after the battle, and placing them before the king as a sign of victory. This scene expresses a documentary method of counting the number of enemy dead, as each severed hand symbolized an enemy soldier who was killed..
  • It shows soldiers kneeling or standing next to a pile of hands, recording numbers, reflecting military organization and precision in documenting achievements and victories..
• The role of scribes:
  • Scribes are shown next to the soldiers, holding their pens and papyrus paper, and accurately recording the number of hands. The presence of scribes reflects the tight administrative system in the Egyptian army, where details of the battle and casualties were recorded to document victory in an official manner..
  • These recordings were part of the Egyptian military tradition, documenting the victories of the king and his soldiers, and were later used in texts glorifying the king and immortalizing his actions..
• King Ramses III and the victory scene:
  • In this scene, King Ramses III is shown receiving reports of victory from the army commanders, and standing proudly on his throne or in the position of a victorious leader. This scene reflects the king’s position as the supreme commander of the army, and the protector of the country who achieves victory and eliminates enemies.
  • The king is accompanied by war gods such as the god Montu, symbolizing divine support for the king and reinforcing the legitimacy of victory as a gift from the gods..

Texts accompanying the inscription:

• Glorification of the King and Victory:
  • Surrounding the counting of hands scenes are texts glorifying King Ramesses III and describing him as the “victorious one who destroys enemies,” reinforcing his image as a brave and fierce leader who protects Egypt from external threats..
  • The texts include prayers and thanks to the gods, especially the god Amun, for supporting the king on the battlefield and giving him strength and victory over his enemies..

Symbolism of counting hands scenes:

Counting hands scenes are a symbol of Ramesses III’s victories and control over his enemies, symbolizing the Egyptian military power and superiority. These scenes also reflect political messages aimed at demonstrating the efficiency of the Egyptian army and showing the king as the protector of the country, which increases his prestige before his people and confirms his status as a victorious leader with divine support..

Scenes of the Opet Festival at the Temple of Ramesses III at Karnak

The Opet Festival is one of the most important religious festivals in ancient Egypt, and was celebrated annually in the city of Thebes (modern Luxor) to promote renewal, stability, and communication between the god Amun and the people. The festival is held mainly in the Karnak Temple Complex and Luxor, where statues of the gods are transferred from Karnak Temple Complex to Luxor Temple in a grand ceremonial procession. The scenes of the Opet Festival in the temple of Ramesses III at Karnak reflect the rituals of this festival and embody the role of King Ramesses III in maintaining the stability and prosperity of Egypt by strengthening the spiritual bonds between the king and the gods..

Details of the Opet Festival scenes:

• Holy boat procession:
  • One of the highlights of the Opet Festival is the procession of the sacred boats, in which the statue of the god Amun-Ra, along with statues of his wife the goddess Mut and his son the god Khonsu, is transported from the Karnak Temple to the Luxor Temple via the Nile..
  • The reliefs show King Ramesses III and the priests driving the sacred boats carried on the shoulders of the priests or pulled by small boats across the river. The boats are shown with their ornate designs, flags and covers decorated with sacred religious symbols expressing the status of the gods and the importance of the festival..
• Statues of gods:
  • The relief shows the sacred statues inside the compartments of the boats being transported with respect and honor, with care taken to cover and protect them. These statues represent the divine incarnations of Amun, Mut and Khonsu, and their transport to the Luxor Temple was believed to bring blessings and spiritual strength to the city..
  • The reliefs show the statue of Amun wearing his royal crown, as well as other symbols such as two feathers and the sun disk, highlighting the statue’s sanctity as a symbol of protection for Egypt..
• Participation of priests and people:
  • Priests participate in the Opet procession, chanting prayers and religious songs and offering incense and flowers before the sacred boats. The reliefs show the priests wearing special ritual clothing and leading rituals expressing reverence and veneration for the gods..
  • The inscription also shows a number of people following the procession and celebrating on the banks of the Nile, as the Opet festival is an important occasion that embodies the connection between the people and their gods, and calls for the continued prosperity of Egypt..
• Rituals of renewal and purification:
  • Scenes from the Opet festival show rituals of purification and cleansing performed as part of the festival. Priests sprinkle holy water and offer incense to purify the sacred boats and the surroundings, reflecting the importance of purity as a prerequisite for divine manifestation..
  • This ritual represents the Egyptians’ desire to bring blessings, prosperity, and the continuation of the cosmic order, and comes as a symbol of the continuity of life and renewal in ancient Egypt..
• The role of King Ramses III:
  • King Ramesses III is shown in reliefs participating in the Opet festival rituals, offering sacrifices and incense to the gods. The king’s role reflects his commitment to protecting religion and promoting the cosmic order of Egypt, and emphasizes his position as a mediator between the gods and the people..
  • The king also served as high priest, representing the people before the gods and ensuring through his rituals the continued stability and prosperity of Egypt..

Symbolism of Opet scenes:

The Opet festival scenes at the Temple of Ramesses III at Karnak Temple Complex embody the concept of spiritual and political renewal in ancient Egypt, as the celebration reflects the strength of the bond between the king and the gods and the role of rituals in maintaining the continuity of life and order. The Opet festival expresses the desire of the people and the king to renew the blessings and support of Amun, and enhances the value of the king as a high priest responsible for the welfare of the country, making the Opet festival scenes a documentation of one of the most important rituals that contributed to the stability and continuity of Egyptian civilization..

External reliefs of Karnak Temple

The exterior reliefs of the Karnak Temple include a number of prominent scenes that highlight the king’s achievements and major ritual celebrations, especially those related to honoring the gods and protecting the state. These reliefs are displayed primarily on the eastern and western walls of the temple, and highlight the mastery of ancient Egyptian art in depicting religious and military scenes..

1. Inscriptions on the eastern wall

• The king was carried on a stretcher: The king is shown in a ceremonial scene being carried on a palanquin carried by the spirits of Buto in front and the spirits of Nekhen in the back, in a scene symbolizing the unity of Upper and Lower Egypt and honoring the king as a divine ruler. This scene is similar to a relief in the Abydos temple of King Seti I, and was repeated with the Ptolemaic kings in temples such as Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae.
• Royal Decree of Ramses III: A royal decree inscription dating back to the 16th year of Ramesses III, which includes the offering of hepatis to the god Amun, and an appendix listing the offerings made to the god. This inscription is a royal proclamation reflecting the king’s connection to the god Amun and his keenness to make offerings in his honour.

2. Western Wall

• Royal battle scenesThe king appears in several reliefs on the western wall in prominent combat scenes, driving his chariot against the Syrians from the north, and on the right another scene of the king leading Syrian prisoners appears, highlighting the power of the king and his army.
• Chasing the LibyansIn the second register, the king is shown on the ground chasing the Libyans, and in another scene he is shown holding the leader of the Libyans, with scenes of soldiers and prisoners led by the king, expressing victory and royal control over the enemies. This scene expresses the importance of the king as a protector of the Egyptian nation from external enemies.

3. Father’s Day inscriptions

• Holy boat processionOne of the most prominent external inscriptions is that of the Ipet Festival, where a large procession is shown carrying sacred boats, most notably the boat of Amun called “Esrahat”. The procession also includes boats for the goddess Mut and the god Khonsu, accompanied by small boats carrying rowers, singers and dancers, reflecting the atmosphere of celebration.
• Amun Complex (Eserhat)The inscriptions mention that the Amun boat “Esrahat” was restored during the reign of Ramesses III, and the sacred boats are shown being pulled by royal boats and a fleet of small boats, and the king is proud to participate in this great celebration, which is considered one of the most important religious occasions.
• Royal boats detailsThe reliefs show the king’s royal boat accompanied by small boats, with the king appearing twice on the prow of the boat, reflecting his direct participation in this sacred ritual and his veneration of the god Amun.

Symbolism of external inscriptions

The external reliefs of the Karnak Temple Complex document the most important religious and military events and rituals during the reign of King Ramses III, and highlight his achievements in protecting Egypt and honoring the gods. These reliefs reflect the religious and political values ​​of ancient Egyptian society, and highlight the role of the king as protector of the state and patron of sacred rituals, which enhances his holiness and divine rank before his people..

About King Ramses III

King Ramesses III (1186-1155 BC) was one of the greatest kings of ancient Egypt and the last of the “warrior kings” of the 20th Dynasty. He succeeded his father, King Setnakht, and is known for his success in defending Egypt against a series of external threats, leading several defensive military campaigns to protect Egypt from its enemies, such as the “Sea Peoples” and the Libyans, making him one of the most prominent military kings in the history of ancient Egypt..

King Ramesses III military achievements:

• Victory over the Sea PeoplesHis victory over the Sea Peoples is considered one of his most important military achievements, as he was able to protect Egypt from their coastal invasion, which was a major threat to the region at that time. This battle came in the eighth year of his reign, and his victory is recorded in detail on the walls of the Temple of Medinet Habu.
• His campaigns against the LibyansDuring his reign, Ramses III launched several campaigns against the Libyans who were attacking Egypt’s western borders. In the fifth year of his reign, he led a campaign against them and achieved an important victory, then he faced them again in the eleventh year, where he defeated them again, which contributed to securing Egypt’s western borders.

King Ramesses III economic and architectural achievements:

• Investing in the economy and agriculture: Ramses III worked to stabilize the country economically after a period of wars and instability, rebuilt the agricultural system, and ensured the distribution of land and wealth to ensure the stability of society. He expanded the scope of agricultural production and increased agricultural wealth, which led to the recovery of the Egyptian economy.
• Architectural Constructions: King Ramesses III left a remarkable architectural legacy, the most important of which is his funerary temple at Medinet Habu, which is considered one of the greatest and most beautiful temples in ancient Egypt. The temple features detailed inscriptions recording his military victories and religious rituals, and is an important source of information about his reign.

King Ramesses III religious role and rituals:

Ramesses III attached great importance to religious rituals, and participated in several religious festivals and festivals, and offered sacrifices to the gods to strengthen his relationship with the gods and gain their approval. Among these rituals, his role in the Opet Festival, where he appears in reliefs driving sacred boats and offering sacrifices, reflecting his status as a high priest and guarantor of religious prosperity.

King Ramesses III end and the harem conspiracy:

The reign of Ramesses III ended tragically when he was subjected to an internal plot known as the “Harem Conspiracy”, where some of his wives and one of his sons conspired to overthrow him. This attempt took place in his last years, and some sources indicate that it caused his death. The Harris Papyrus and the details of the trial of the conspirators revealed that this plot aimed to install one of the king’s sons from another wife on the throne, but the conspirators were caught and punished.

King Ramesses III legacy and influence:

Ramesses III is one of the last great kings in ancient Egyptian history, defending Egypt against external threats, achieving internal stability and reviving the economy. His military, architectural and religious achievements left a profound impact on Egyptian civilization, making him a symbol of power and wisdom in that era..

King Ramses III is one of the greatest pharaohs of ancient Egypt and the last of its great kings. He took power during a period full of challenges, as Egypt was facing economic crises and external pressures from the attacks of the Sea Peoples who destroyed great civilizations such as the Hittite civilization. Despite these circumstances, Ramses III was able to maintain the stability of the country and bravely confront external enemies, confirming his position as a strong king and protector of Egypt.

Ramesses III was keen to enhance the legitimacy of his rule by building massive temples and performing religious rituals that dedicated his allegiance to the gods. He built several massive temples, such as the Temple of Habu on the West Bank of Luxor, which is considered one of his most notable architectural achievements. He also built additional Karnak Temple Complex, where he built two temples in the Amun-Re area, one of which he combined with the Great Temple of Amun and the other next to the Temple of the goddess Mut..

History shows that, despite the economic crisis that hit Egypt during his reign, which led to strikes among workers in Deir el-Medina, Ramesses III believed in the importance of offering sacrifices and building temples to ensure the continuity of divine support and the legitimacy of his rule. This is evident in the inscriptions of the twelfth year of his reign on the pylon of the Temple of Habu, in which he states that he inherited the rule from his father and that he received power from the god Amun..

The temples he built at Karnak Temple

King Ramesses III built two temples in the Karnak Temple Complex to honor the god Amun-Ra, as Karnak was a sacred religious center and had a special importance in affirming the legitimacy of the king and the power of Egypt. The first temple was located in the Amun area, which he combined with the Great Temple of Amun to show great religious dedication. The second temple was built to the north-east of the temple of the goddess Mut..

These two temples were very similar in architectural design and interior layout, as well as inscriptions and scenes depicting King Ramesses III offering sacrifices and performing religious rituals. The two temples were dedicated to the worship of the Theban triad, represented by the gods Amun, Mut, and Khonsu, confirming the king’s commitment to devoting his efforts to serving the main gods of Egypt..

The northern temple in the Amun area acquired a special name as it was known as “the house of Ramesses, ruler of Heliopolis, in the seat of Amun”, which indicates the place where the temple was built, while the southern temple in the Mut area was not named..

The Egyptian Antiquities Service began restoring the two temples early on, with the French engineer Legrand attempting to restore the temple in the Amun area in 1896, although his limited experience caused some damage to the Great Hypostyle Hall, which is considered one of the most magnificent parts of Karnak..

The construction of these two temples was an important step for Ramesses III in affirming his spiritual and religious connection to the Karnak Temple Complex and the legitimacy of his rule..

House of Ramses, ruler of Heliopolis, in the seat of Amun

The House of Ramesses, Governor of Heliopolis, in the Precinct of Amun is the name given to one of the two temples built by King Ramesses III at the Karnak Temple Complex, specifically in the Precinct of Amun. This name embodies Ramesses III’s role as a ruler with a deep spiritual connection to the god Amun, the god of the sun and fertility and supreme ruler of the gods in ancient Egypt. The location of the temple in the Precinct of Amun was of particular importance, as it formed a direct connection with the seat of worship of the main god of the Thebans, which contributed to strengthening the legitimacy of Ramesses III’s rule..

This temple was built at a time when Egypt was facing economic challenges and internal unrest. However, King Ramesses III insisted on building large temples, such as the Ramesses House, as part of his efforts to strengthen the legitimacy of his rule, as he had repelled the attacks of the Sea Peoples that threatened the great civilizations of that era. The design of the temple and the styles of its inscriptions reflect the traditions of the New Kingdom, particularly through the depiction of the king in ritual offerings to the god, which emphasizes the importance of the temple as a symbol of the worship of the Theban triad: Amun, Mut, and Khonsu..

The Egyptian Antiquities Service began restoring this temple early, in 1896, when the French engineer Legrand took on the task of restoring it. Despite Legrand’s good intentions in restoring the temple to its original state, lack of expertise led to damage to the Great Hypostyle Hall, which is considered one of the most prominent parts of the Karnak Temples..

In terms of design, the temple showed great simplicity and symbolism, and was dedicated as a resting place for the sacred boats of the Theban triad during religious ceremonies. The construction of this temple came to provide a place dedicated to the gods instead of the shrines that had been built by King Seti II, as Ramesses III saw that stopping the sacred boats in a temple bearing his name would give him legitimacy and acceptance from the gods and enhance his position as a king elected by the god Amun..

The southern temple in the area of ​​the goddess Mut

King Ramesses III built a southern temple in the area of ​​the temple of the goddess Mut within the Karnak complex. Unlike the northern temple, this temple did not bear a specific known name, but it had great religious and architectural significance, as it reflected the king’s dedication to the cult of the Theban triad.: Amun, Mut, and Khonsu.

This temple is located near the temple of the goddess Mut, and its design is similar to the northern temple in the Amun area in terms of structure and reliefs. This similarity between the two temples continues in the artistic details, confirming that the purpose of their construction was to reinforce Ramesses III’s loyalty to the goddess Mut as part of the sacred triad of Thebes, and to consider them as sacred places for the resting of the divine boats during religious ceremonies and rituals..

Although the temple is small in size compared to the Great Temple of Amun, its distinguished location reflects an important symbolism in the king’s association with the goddess Mut, the goddess of motherhood and protection in Egyptian belief..

The importance of building new temples during the reign of King Ramses III

The importance of building new temples during the reign of King Ramesses III emerged as part of his strategy to strengthen the legitimacy of his rule and to devote his loyalty to the Egyptian gods, especially at a time when the country was suffering from economic crises and external threats, most notably attacks by the Sea Peoples. Despite these challenges, Ramesses III built huge and complex temples such as the Temple of Habu in Luxor and other temples in the Karnak complex, in order to confirm his role as a powerful king who enjoyed the blessing of the gods..

Establishing royal legitimacy: Building temples was an important means of establishing the king’s legitimacy, as the ancient Egyptians believed that the temple connected the king to the gods and gave him protection and power through his closeness to them. This legitimacy is clearly shown in the temples built by Ramesses III at Karnak, where one of the two temples in the Amun area was known as the “House of Ramesses, Governor of Heliopolis, in the Seat of Amun”, reflecting the king’s role as a spiritual leader who received support from the god.

Strengthening the spiritual identity of the kingThe southern temple in the precinct of Mut and the northern temple in the precinct of Amun were part of the dedication process to the sacred triad of Thebes: Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. The importance of this dedication lies in the fact that, through this ritual, the king appears as a patron of the sacred rites, reinforcing his role as protector of the Egyptian land and as a religious symbol directly linked to the main goddess.

Celebrating religious occasionsNew temples, especially those built near major cult centers, provided a resting place for sacred barges during festivals, such as the Opet Festival. These barges carried great symbolism, as their stopping at royal temples was associated with the dedication of divine protection to the king and his support before his people.

Statue of King Tutankhamun

The Sphinx of Tutankhamun is one of the most prominent monuments located in the western direction of Karnak Temple.

The statue represents a unique combination of artistic and religious elements, as it embodies the shape of the Sphinx, which is considered a symbol of power and protection in ancient Egyptian civilization from the rule of the Third Dynasty in the Old Kingdom until the rule of the kings of the 18th Dynasty in the New Kingdom.

This statue dates back to around 1330 BC, during the reign of King Tutankhamun, who belonged to the Eighteenth Dynasty.

This statue is considered one of the oldest pieces in the courtyard, which gives it great archaeological value.

Although the exact date of its bringing to this place is not known, its presence enhances the status of the temple.

This statue is a symbol of protection and inspiration. In ancient cultures, the Sphinx was believed to bring protection to kings and saints and was associated with the religious practices of the Karnak Temple, where it was considered an interface between the human world on earth and the ancient Egyptian gods in the sky..

It is considered a focal point in the temple, which enhances its importance in the archaeological context as it shows the influence of ancient Egyptian sculpture on architecture and arts in later eras, which shows the continuity of Egyptian culture over time.

King Tutankhamun Facts

• Egyptian Pharaohs king of Eighteenth Dynasty of Egypt, The New Kingdom.
• Tomb of Tutankhamun | KV62 in the Valley of the Kings, Luxor.
• Wife: Queen Ankhesenamun.

Statue of King Ramses II

In the open courtyard of the Karnak Temple, just before the second pylon on the left, is the statue of King Ramesses II, showing King Ramesses II holding the scepter and flail.

King Ramses II wears the nemes, the royal headdress that signifies his high status and one of the most important royal garments in ancient Egypt, and the crown, reflecting his authority as the ruling king over the regions of Upper and Lower Egypt.

The statue shows fine details in the facial and body features, reflecting the high craftsmanship of ancient Egyptian artists and their ability to embody strength and grandeur in the art of sculpture..

The statue originally belonged to King Ramses II, considered one of the greatest kings of ancient Egypt. King Ramses VI (20th Dynasty, Ramesside Period) then wrote his name on it.

Then the priest Bennedjem I removed the name of King Ramses II from the statue and replaced it with his own name, reflecting his attempt to demonstrate his authority and assert his identity as a pharaonic king ruling the throne of ancient Egypt.

This change shows how Pinedjem I “Twenty-first Egyptian Dynasty, Third Intermediate Period of Egypt” sought to establish himself in Egyptian history as a major influence among the pharaohs..

The statue of King Ramses II was carved from pink granite, 260 cm long, with a stone base. In addition, Queen Nefertari and her daughter Princess Anut were carved in front of the legs..

You will find another broken statue carved for King Ramses II on the right in front of the second pylon.

King Ramses II Facts

• Egyptian Pharaohs king of Nineteenth Dynasty of Egypt, The New Kingdom.
• Temple of Ramses II in Marsa Matrouh, Om El Rehem, Temple Ramses II in Sohag, Temple of Abu Simbel in Aswan.
• Tomb of King Ramesses II | KV7 in the Valley of the Kings, Luxor.
• Wife: Queen Nefertari, Queen Meritamen.

Pinedjem I Facts:

Pinedjem I was the High Priest of the Temple of Amun in the ancient city of Thebes and the de facto ruler of Upper Egypt.

He ruled during a sensitive period in ancient Egyptian history, as his reign extended from 1070 BC to 1032 BC.

Pinedjem I is considered a prominent figure in Egyptian history during the era of the Pharaohs, as he had a great influence on political and religious life.

• Political role During his reign, Pinedjem I was able to take advantage of the weakness of royal authority, as the influence of the priests in Thebes increased, giving him greater ability to influence political matters.
• Rapprochement with Ramses II: While the statue belonged to Ramses II, Pinedjem I claim to the authority of this statue reflects his aspiration to enhance his position in the world of politics, power, and control over the reins of government, the army, and all pillars of government.
• Government style: The rule of Pinedjem I was seen as a model of the overlap between political power and religion, with the priests increasingly controlling governmental affairs.

Historical context:

The reign of Pinedjem I is considered a transitional period in the history of ancient Egypt. During this period, the priests, especially the priests of the temple of the god Amun, became prominent in political life. Pinedjem I, by focusing on his religious and political authority, was able to combine both lives, making him a pivotal figure in this era.

Second Pylon Karnak Temple

The construction of the second pylon began during the reign of King Horemheb (18th Dynasty, New Kingdom of Egypt).

Then King Ramses I completed the construction. Then King Ramses II finished the construction of the second pylon in its entirety and wrote his name on it..

King Ptolemy VIII, one of the kings of the Ptolemaic era, took care to restore the second edifice, build some architectural additions, and write his name on it.

The height of the second edifice is 98m, its thickness is 14m and its width is 30m.

The second pylon in the Karnak Temple is considered one of the prominent pylons that was distinguished by its unique architectural design and deep religious significance in the religion of the ancient Egyptians, as it was built to be a great gate leading into the temple from the western side.

The second pylon was built during the reign of King Ramses II of the Nineteenth Dynasty, who was keen to highlight the majesty and grandeur of the temple to visitors, so that the pylon would be a facade that would receive crowds of visitors and priests and accompany them on their ritual journey towards the interior..

Design of the second pylon and the ram statues:

 The second pylon features statues of rams with ram heads and lion bodies lined up on either side, symbolizing strength, fertility and protection.

The ram was one of the sacred animals that embodied the god Amun, one of the greatest gods in ancient Egyptian religion. The rams carried small statues of King Ramses II, symbolizing the protection that the god Amun gave to the ruling king of ancient Egypt, and expressing the close relationship between the king and the god.

If we look from above, we will find that the upper part contains blocks bearing inscriptions, pharaonic drawings and royal cartouches, indicating that they are decorative blocks that were used in ancient temples..

The second monument was built using reused stones, which weakened its structure and made it vulnerable to damage over the ages and exposure to climate and bad weather..

Luxor was hit by a very high and devastating flood, which eroded much of the stonework of the Second Pylon.

However, it is well established that until the French expedition in 1800, this pylon was in good condition. Fortunately, the French expedition recorded some of the views of it, which were later used in the restoration and reconstruction process.

The Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities and Tourism is still working on reconstruction and restoration.The small openings created inside the monument allow the use of sensors to detect the decorative blocks that were used inside.

This is to enable us to extract valuable pieces of art from inside the monument, and replace them with bricks or reinforced concrete.

When the first pylon was built some time after the second, the main courtyard at Karnak had to be enlarged to accommodate the large numbers of Egyptian visitors and priests who gathered for annual religious ceremonies, offerings, and sacred divine processions to the Theban triad.

For this reason, the statues of rams were moved from their original location in front of the second pylon to the sides of the road leading to the first pylon, where the rams settled on the sides of the Avenue of Sphinxes that extends from the first pylon to the dock.

Second Pylon & Opet Festival:

 In major religious festivals such as the Opet Festival, the Second Pylon played a central role in guiding the main religious procession carrying the statue of the god Amun on its journey from Karnak to Luxor.

The procession of the gods would emerge from the Holy of Holies inside the temple, pass through the courtyard and various pylons until it reached the Second Pylon, where priests and visitors would be gathered to celebrate the beginning of the sacred journey to initiate the renewal of divinity and vitality between the god Amun of Karnak and the god Amun of Luxor..

The Opet Festival is one of the most important religious festivals in ancient Egypt, embodying the renewal of life and reaffirming divine support for the ruling pharaoh of Upper and Lower Egypt.

The statues passing through the Second Pylon, accompanied by priests and visitors, expressed the sanctity and spirituality of the celebration, as the statues were received with hymns, chants and religious rituals, and the people presented offerings and gifts to the god Amun, creating an atmosphere of awe and reverence..

Symbolism of Second Pylon and Pivotal location in Karnak:

The second pylon represents the first starting point of the great religious procession, as the procession moves from the Holy of Holies room, passing through the pylons and gates, arriving at the first pylon and the Avenue of Sphinxes leading to the dock.

The ram statues added an important spiritual symbol to the second edifice, as they symbolized protection and safety, enhancing the visitors’ experience as they entered the funerary temple and their sense of awe and appreciation for the ancient Egyptian gods and the ruling king..

The position of the second edifice indicates a deliberate design that expresses a religious hierarchy, as the visitor moves from the open courtyards to the dark interior of the temple that expresses the sanctity of the gods and enhances the sanctity of the journey within the temple.

The presence of the second pylon as a western facade suggests the temple’s connection to the movement of the sun, as visitors can see the sun setting across the pylon, symbolizing the cycle of life and the cosmic order to which the ancient Egyptian gods and pharaohs are connected..

Second Pylon Scenes

Royal image in front of a god

At the entrance to the second pylon, there are remains of an important royal image showing the king standing before one of the ancient Egyptian gods.

Despite the erosion of some parts of the inscription, the scene still retains its historical and artistic beauty. The available details indicate that:

• King’s position: The king stands in a stately pose, wearing the traditional royal crown, perhaps the double crown symbolizing his control over the regions of Upper and Lower Egypt.
• The companion god: The god standing before the king may be the god Amun-Ra or another major god. The god is depicted with clear features, and holds religious symbols such as a sceptre or ankh sign of life.
• Symbols and inscriptions: The scene is surrounded by ancient Egyptian hieroglyphic writings that may include the names of the king and the god, as well as religious phrases offering blessings and protection.

This scene reflects the close relationship between the pharaoh king and the ancient Egyptian gods, as it shows the king as a mediator between the people and the gods in heaven, deriving his legitimacy and authority to rule ancient Egypt from divine support..

Offering wine to Amun and Mut

Another scene shows the king offering wine to the god Amun and the god Mut.:

• The king acts as high priest, emphasizing his religious status as well as his political power..
• Depiction of the gods:
  • God Amun: He is often depicted with a double-feathered crown, a symbol of his power and sovereignty.
  • God is death: She is depicted with a crown reflecting her attributes as a mother and protective goddess.
• Wine offering ritual: Wine in ancient Egypt was a symbol of fertility and abundance, and its offering was considered one of the most prestigious sacrifices. The king is shown holding the wine vessel with appreciation and respect.

This scene highlights the closeness between the ruling king and the ancient Egyptian gods, and shows his commitment to religious rituals to ensure the prosperity of the kingdom and gain the approval of the gods and proves that he established justice and the tasks assigned to him by the ancient Egyptian gods..

Subjugation of enemy prisoners

The third scene depicts the king in a moment of victory, as he subdues the enemy prisoners.:

• The victorious king: The king is depicted in a towering figure, holding his enemies or perhaps raising a weapon as a symbol of power and control.
• Captive enemies:
  • Features and details: The enemies are depicted with distinctive features and clothing that differ from Egyptian, indicating their foreign identity such as Nubians, Sudanese and Libyans.
  • The situation: They appear in a state of surrender, reflecting their defeat and the strength of the Egyptian army.
• Surrounding symbols: Inscriptions may include the names of conquered lands or peoples, as well as symbols of victory and protection.

This scene shows the king’s military skill and his ability to protect Egypt from external threats. It also symbolizes the order and justice “goddess Maat” brings to his people by imposing peace and stability.

Remains of the same scene but the king here is Ramses VI.

In this part of the reliefs at the entrance to the Second Pylon, we see remains of the same scene described earlier, but with an important change: the king represented here is Ramesses VI instead of Ramesses II.

King Ramesses VI was one of the kings of the 20th Dynasty, known as the Ramesside period and the beginning of the revolutions and decline of ancient Egypt, and he ruled Egypt for a relatively short period during the New Kingdom..

Scene details:

• King’s position: Ramesses VI is shown in a traditional royal pose, perhaps standing or sitting on a throne, wearing the royal crown and royal symbols such as the sceptre and crooked staff.
• Interacting with the gods: The scene may show the king making offerings or performing religious rituals before one of the major ancient Egyptian deities such as the god Amun-Ra or the god Mut, reflecting the continuity of religious traditions and royal rituals.
• Symbols and inscriptions: The scene is surrounded by hieroglyphic inscriptions bearing the names and titles of King Ramses VI, in addition to religious texts that grant blessings and protection to the king from the gods and give him the right to the throne of ancient Egypt.

Other records on the second pylon entrance

On the map, we find four important registers decorating the entrance to the second pylon of the Karnak Temple.These records contain historical and religious scenes that reflect the rituals and beliefs of ancient Egypt, and highlight the role of the king in communicating with the ancient Egyptian gods and offering sacrifices.

Remains of the image of the king in front of the offering table

In the first register, the remains of a picture of a pharaoh standing in front of an offering table appear. Although parts of this scene have been destroyed, the remaining elements reveal important details.:

• King’s position: The king stands in a reverent pose, wearing the royal crown and possibly armour, reflecting his status and authority.
• offering table: A table is shown filled with various offerings such as bread, fruits, flowers, and birds, indicating the diversity and richness of his reign.
• hieroglyphic symbols: There may be texts describing royal titles and religious prayers that grant blessings and protection from the Egyptian gods to the ruling king.

The king offers sacrifices to the god Amun and the god Mut.

In the second register, the king is depicted making offerings to the god Amun and the god Mut.:

• the king: The king wears ceremonial dress and perhaps a special crown, and holds in his hands a tray or vessel containing offerings.
• Amun: The god Amun is depicted with his distinctive double-feathered crown, a symbol of power and sovereignty.
• death: The goddess Mut appears beside the god Amun, wearing the royal crown, and playing the role of a protective mother.
• Offering details: The offerings included food, incense, and flowers, reflecting the importance of these rituals in the religious life and religion of the ancient Egyptians.

Scene of the dedication of offerings to the god Amun and the god Montu

The third register features a distinctive scene of the reigning king dedicating offerings to the god Amun and the god Montu.:

• the king: He appears in a position of worship and reverence, perhaps kneeling or raising his hands with offerings.
• God Amun and God Montu: A god who combines the attributes of the god Amun and the god of war, the god Montu, reflecting strength and protection.
• Consecration ritual: The consecration process represented the king’s offering of his best to the Egyptian gods, seeking blessings, victory, and confirmation of his legitimacy to rule the throne of ancient Egypt.
• War symbols: Symbols such as swords or spears may appear, emphasizing the warlike nature of the god Montu.

The king before the god Amun and the god Khonsu

In the fourth register, the king is depicted standing before the god Amun and the god Khonsu.:

• the king: He is dressed in full royal garb, and may be carrying royal paraphernalia such as a sceptre.
• Amun: He continues as a major deity, symbolizing creation and fertility.
• Khonsu: Moon god, depicted as a young man or child, wearing a skullcap and crescent moon.
• Interaction: The scene may show the king receiving blessings or instructions from the Egyptian gods, reflecting direct communication and that the pharaoh was carrying out what he was assigned on earth by the gods in heaven.

Great Hypostyle Hall  Karnak Temple

Great Hypostyle Hall It is one of the most important and greatest parts of the Karnak Temple, and is considered one of the largest architectural halls in terms of construction and column height.

This hall reflects the enormous progress that the ancient Egyptians achieved in the art of architecture and engineering, and is considered a true architectural miracle due to its grand size and complex design..

Located near the end of the axis, it contains 134 massive sandstone columns that reach a height of 23 meters, and is considered one of the largest halls in the temples of ancient Egypt.

The large columns represent a majestic view, and are covered with inscriptions representing scenes from the lives of the pharaohs and their celebrations.

The Great Hypostyle Hall is one of the most remarkable wonders of Karnak Temple, built during the reign of King Seti I and completed by his son, King Ramses II.

The hall covers an area of ​​more than 5,000 square metres and contains 134 huge columns, arranged in symmetrical rows, with 12 towering columns in the centre, decorated with engravings depicting military and ceremonial Scenes in ancient Egypt.

The central columns are about 21 meters high, while the surrounding columns are about 15 meters high. This hall is one of the amazing architectural achievements of ancient Egyptian civilization, as it allows visitors to have a majestic experience that reflects the power and might of the Egyptian state at that time.

King Seti I Facts

• Egyptian Pharaohs king of Nineteenth Dynasty of Egypt, The New Kingdom.
• The Temple of Abydos in Sohag.
• Tomb of King Seti I | KV17 in the Valley of the Kings, Luxor.
• Wife: Queen Tuya.

Architectural design of the Great Hypostyle Hall

• The Great Hypostyle Hall covers an area of ​​approximately 5,356 square m, with dimensions of 52m wide and 103m long.
• Number of columns: The hall contains 134 massive columns, distributed in 16 rows.
  • middle columns: It has 12 columns, each 22 m high, with a diameter of about 3.5 m.
  • Side columns: It has 122 columns, a height of 14 m and a diameter of 3.37 m.
• Column design: The columns are designed in the form of open and closed papyrus plants, symbolizing life and fertility. The central columns represent open papyrus plants, while the side columns represent closed papyrus buds.

Materials used

• Sandstone: The columns were built from the finest sandstone, which was extracted from the quarries of Upper Egypt. This stone is known for its hardness and resistance to erosion, which has helped the hall remain in good condition despite thousands of years. The drawings and engravings are currently being restored by specialists in the field of Egyptian antiquities restoration.
• Roof blocks: Above the columns, huge blocks of sandstone were placed to form the roof, each weighing about 60 to 70 tons. This roof rests on rock lintels connecting every two columns, allowing for strong support for the columns.

Interior design and religious symbolism

• Doctrinal symbolism: The hall represents a conception of the universe in the ancient Egyptian religion, as the hall’s columns reflect papyrus plants that symbolize the Nile Delta, the place where this plant grows and was a source of life.
• The Eternal Hill: The bases of the columns represent the eternal hill, known as the “dado”, which symbolizes the first land that arose from the flood waters in ancient Egyptian mythology and the mythical legends of the pharaohs. From this hill came life, making the hall a symbol of the place where creation originated.
• Inscriptions of gods and royal symbols: On the columns of the hall, there are inscriptions and drawings of ancient Egyptian gods, symbolizing the close relationship between the ruling king and the gods in the sky. Royal cartouches decorate the columns and highlight the pharaoh’s association with the god Amun, emphasizing his legitimacy as an intermediary between the people and the Egyptian gods in the sky.

The importance of the hall in religious rituals and processions

• Procession of the Gods: The hall was part of the route taken by processions of the gods during religious ceremonies. Sunlight streamed into the hall through large stone windows, giving the place a special sanctity.
• Festive processions: The hall was used for great ceremonial processions, where priests carried sacred statues in great processions.

The hall as an architectural marvel

• massive columns: The central columns are among the largest columns built by ancient Egyptian engineers and architects, with a height of 22 meters and a diameter of 3.5 meters, making each one capable of supporting a number of people above the column’s crown.
• Basilica system: The basilica design of the hypostyle hall represents the earliest application of this architectural style, with multiple levels of roof. The highest roof is above the central columns, while the second roof is slightly lower above the side columns.
• Stone windows: The design is characterised by the presence of large stone windows on the sides that allow light to enter to illuminate the path designated for the divine procession, indicating the development of astronomy in the modern Egyptian state.

History and Restoration

• Construction start: The construction of the Great Hypostyle Hall dates back to the reign of King Amenhotep III, who laid the foundations for the large central columns. Construction stopped for a period during the reign of Akhenaten (Amenhotep IV), then was completed during the reign of King Tutankhamun and King Ramses I.
• Construction completed: The construction was completed during the reign of King Seti I, who added the side columns, then King Ramses II added the walls and roof, and decorated the columns with royal cartouches and religious inscriptions.
• Modern restoration: In the nineteenth century, in 1902 AD, under the leadership of Dr. Georges Legrain, the French archaeologist, the hypostyle hall was restored by archaeologists and Egyptologists, using modern engineering methods to ensure the stability of the columns and restore them after they had been damaged by time.
• Until November 2024, the drawings and inscriptions on the walls of the columns in the back rows in the eastern and western directions are currently being restored.

Important scenes in the Hypostyle Hall

Scene of King Seti I in front of the sacred barge of Amun

This scene is located on the south wall of the east wing of the hypostyle hall. It shows Seti I offering incense and sprinkling liquids before the sacred barque of the god Amun.

The enclosure contains the barques of the Theban triad, with the great ram-headed barque of Amun at the front and rear, the barque of Khonsu, and finally the barque of Mut. Seti I is also shown making offerings before these sacred barques..

Scene of Ramses II in front of Amun

The scene appears on wall number 121, and depicts King Ramesses II kneeling before the god Amun, who gives him the ankh sign of life.

Behind the king is a sapling tree, and the god Thoth is writing the years of King Ramesses II’s reign on its leaves, in the presence of the gods Amun and Khonsu.

Third Pylon Karnak Temple

The third pylon was built during the reign of King Amenhotep III (18th Dynasty), whose reign is considered one of the most prosperous and stable periods in the history of the New Kingdom.

King Amenhotep III was known for his grand architectural projects and his interest in art and religion, making this monument not just a gateway, but a symbol of the power and greatness of his kingdom and the status of the god Amun-Ra..

During the reign of King Amenhotep III, ancient buildings that stood on the site were demolished, and their stones were used as filler to build his own pylon, which makes it difficult to imagine the original shape of the third pylon.

Among these stones, stone blocks from previous shrines were used, including the White Shrine built by King Senusret I (12th Dynasty, Middle Kingdom), and the Red Shrine stones ordered to be built by Queen Hatshepsut, the most famous queen and pharaoh of history from the 18th Dynasty.

Dimensions and design

The third pylon is about 24 meters high, and features two massive towers on either side, connected by a wide entrance topped with a large inscription. It is believed that this pylon was completely covered with inscriptions depicting the victories and military campaigns carried out by the king against enemies on Egypt’s western and eastern borders..

Archaeologists extracted from the filling of the third pylon many stones that were later reassembled in the open-air museum at Karnak, including the White Chapel (of King Senusret I), the Red Chapel (ofQueen Hatshepsut), and the rest cabin of the holy ship.

Sculptures and symbols

The third pylon contains relief panels and fine sculptures, depicting scenes from the royal life of King Amenhotep III, as well as religious rituals and celebrations of victory over enemies. The reliefs focus particularly on the glorification of the god Amun, who was considered the primary patron of kings and protector of the regions of Upper and Lower Egypt.

The sculptures also include scenes of offerings to the god Amun and his wife, the god Mut..

Wall texts from the reign of King Amenhotep III left a detailed description of the beauty of the edifice, stating that it was covered with gold on the outside, and its facade was decorated with images of Amun in the form of a ram, studded with precious stones and lapis lazuli.

Texts on the walls of the third pylon referred to the brilliance of the gold-covered masts that topped the western facade of the Karnak temple complex, making it look like the sky due to its intense brilliance..

Israel Plate:

A famous stela was found in the Temple of Amenhotep III known as the “Israel Stela,” where King Merneptah, son of King Ramesses II, used the back of this stela to record his victory over Bedouin tribes, including “Israel.” This stela is one of the oldest references to Israel in Egyptian history, and is currently on display at the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir..

Extraction of more than 1000 archaeological stone blocks:

Archaeologists and excavators, in cooperation with foreign missions in Egyptology, were able to extract about 1,000 stone blocks from the filling of the third pylon.

These blocks contained parts of the remains of ten previous temples, and included stone blocks from the chapels and buildings of previous kings. These blocks were returned to display in the open museum in Karnak after their installation..

Religious Inscriptions:

The walls of the monument are decorated with religious inscriptions and texts that refer to the nature of the ancient Egyptian gods and the role of the god Mun as protector of Egypt, and establish his position as a major god in the New Kingdom.

Some of the texts depict King Amenhotep III making offerings to the god Amun, indicating his supplication to the god to grant him wisdom and power and to prove his legitimacy to rule the throne of ancient Egypt..

The importance of the third edifice from a religious and political perspective

• A symbol of victory and strength: The third pylon was a tribute to the military successes of King Amenhotep III, with the walls displaying scenes of his victories and his relationship with the ancient Egyptian gods, especially the god Mun-Ra, who was considered the source of power and victory.
• Celebrations and Rituals: The Third Pylon played an important role in major celebration rituals such as the Opet Festival, where annual ceremonial processions passed in front of it, embodying the journey of the god Amun from Karnak to the Luxor Temple.

Third Pylon Facts:

• Limestone panels and stones were discovered, carved during the reign of King Ahmose I of the 18th Dynasty..
• A stone boat base and the remains of a column carved from sandstone were found during the reign of King Thutmose IV..
• A stone tablet carved from red granite depicting King Amenhotep II practicing archery and a ceiling carved from marble were discovered..
• Stone remains of the sacred boat cabin built during the reign of King Amenhotep I..
• Stone base carved with the names of King Amenemhat III and King Amenemhat IV “12th Dynasty of Egypt” made of pink granite.
• Remains of the sacred boat cabin built during the reign of King Thutmose III were found..
• A group of stones from the shrine of King Senusret I were discovered, completely restored, assembled and now displayed in the first courtyard..
• Sandstone block carved during the reign of King Thutmose II.
• Finding the remains of the sacred boat cabin made of red quartz stones, which was carved and built in the era of Queen Hatshepsut.
• The limestone blocks used to build the entrance to the funerary temple of King Amenhotep III were discovered.

Obelisk of Queen Hatshepsut

• Architectural details and timeline: Queen Hatshepsut ordered the cutting and transporting of the two obelisks from the Aswan quarries to the Karnak Temple in record time, as work on the two obelisks took only seven months, which is considered a huge architectural achievement in the era of the New Kingdom of Egypt in the 18th Dynasty.
• Height and weight: The Northern Obelisk is the tallest of Egypt’s existing obelisks, with a height of 29.5 metres and an estimated weight of 323 tons. It is the second tallest obelisk in the world after the obelisk of King Thutmose III, which was moved to Piazza Roma in Italy.
• Location and inscriptionsThe two obelisks were erected at the entrance to the hall of Thutmose I, and Queen Hatshepsut wrote texts on their bases in ancient Egyptian indicating their achievement and explaining that she dedicated them to the god Amun-Ra. The inscriptions on the northern obelisk depict the queen dressed as a man and performing religious rituals before the god Amun.
• Architectural uniqueness and time achievement: The Northern Obelisk of Queen Hatshepsut is a great architectural achievement as it was cut, transported, engraved and erected in record time thanks to the harnessing of all the state’s capabilities during her reign on the throne of ancient Egypt. It is also considered the tallest standing obelisk in Egypt and is preserved in its original condition in excellent condition, making it one of the most important monuments in Karnak Temple..
• The importance of obelisks to Hatshepsut’s legitimacy: Hatshepsut erected the two obelisks to assert her right to rule the throne of ancient Egypt, and to consecrate her position as the legitimate daughter of the god Amun. Placing the obelisks inside the shrine of her father, King Thutmose I, and dedicating them to the god Amun, reinforced her legitimacy as the ruler of the pharaoh and confirmed her sacred affiliation to the family of Amun, symbolizing her divine right to rule..
• Changes to the obelisk: During the reign of King Akhenaten, the images of the god Amun on the obelisk were defaced as part of Akhenaten’s campaign for religious monotheism, but these inscriptions were later restored, and traces of the defacement are still visible today as evidence of that turbulent period in Egyptian history.

Queen Hatshepsut Facts

• Egyptian Pharaohs king of Eighteenth Dynasty of Egypt, The New Kingdom.
• Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut in Deir El Bahari.
• Tomb of Queen Hatshepsut | KV60 in the Valley of the Kings, Luxor.
• Husband: King Thutmose II.

Colonnade of King Thutmose I in Karnak Temple

• Design and location: The Chambers of Thutmose I are located behind the Fourth Pylon in Karnak Temple, and were specifically built to form part of the original core of the temple around which the rest of the pylons and buildings were built in later periods. These chambers were used to store and preserve the tools and supplies needed to build the Karnak temple complex.
• Uses: The side chambers were used to store food, drink, oils and perfumes used in religious rituals, as well as clothing and jewellery that were presented as gifts and offerings to the god Amun. Some chambers were also used to store religious ritual supplies used in the celebrations of the god Amun’s festival and the annual Opet festival.
• Room development over time: Over time, modifications were made to the chambers, with Queen Hatshepsut and then King Thutmose III making various expansions and additions. For example, King Thutmose III added huge stone columns to support the new wooden ceiling instead of the wooden columns that Queen Hatshepsut had put in place.

King Thutmose I Facts

• Egyptian Pharaohs king of Eighteenth Dynasty of Egypt, The New Kingdom.
• Tomb of King Thutmose I + Queen Hatshepsut | KV20 in the Valley of the Kings, Luxor.

Fourth Pylon in Karnak Temple

Thutmose I, the third king of the 18th Dynasty, is the builder of the fourth pylon of the Karnak temple complex, and this pylon is considered one of the oldest temple pylons.

Thutmose I was the first to introduce pylons into the design of the temple, making him a pioneer in enhancing the prestige of Karnak as the seat of the god Amun-Ra, which increased the religious and political importance of this religious complex during the reign of the kings of the 18th Dynasty of Egypt.

Obelisks of King Thutmose I

• King Thutmose I erected two obelisks in front of the fourth pylon he built, and they were placed on the western side of the Karnak temple complex..
• The height of the obelisk of King Thutmose I is 21.65 meters, and its weight is about 143 tons..
• The obelisks were carved and cut from red granite, the most famous stone used in ancient Egypt, and the names and titles of King Thutmose I (18th Dynasty) were engraved on them. Despite their age, they retain part of their original inscriptions..

King Thutmose I placed two huge obelisks in front of the Fourth Pylon, which were landmarks for this pylon and symbols of majesty and power.

The obelisks were a symbol of the sun and the power of the god Amun-Ra, representing a link between heaven and earth. The two obelisks are about 22 meters high each, and are made of pink granite quarried in Aswan..

• religious symbolism: The obelisks were decorated with religious inscriptions that glorified the god Amun and preserved the victories of Thutmose I. By placing the obelisks, the king wanted to dedicate his loyalty to the god Amun, and the inscriptions indicate his supplication to the god to provide protection for Egypt and its people. These obelisks remained one of the symbols of the Karnak Temple and a place of visitation in various religious rituals.

Religious and political functions

• symbol of power: The obelisks in front of the fourth pylon represent an imposing pylon that expresses power and control. They were placed to represent a symbol of glorifying King Thutmose I and to commemorate his military campaigns and achievements.
• Strategic location for rituals: The fourth pylon was used as a reference point during religious processions, as royal rituals and processions that took place on the Opet Festival and other religious festivals passed in front of it.

Inscriptions and artworks

• religious inscriptions: The two obelisks were decorated with inscriptions glorifying Amun and documenting the military campaign led by Thutmose I, reflecting the king’s devotion to the god Amun and his request for protection and victory for Egypt.
• Current Remains: One of the obelisks still stands in its place today, while the other was moved to other locations during later periods.

Fifth Pylon in Karnak Temple

Its construction began during the reign of King Thutmose I. King Thutmose III is considered one of the greatest pharaohs of the 18th Egyptian Dynasty. His reign witnessed a major expansion of the Karnak Temple, as he added the Fifth Pylon as part of his improvements to the Karnak Temple Complex.

King Thutmose III, who was nicknamed “Napoleon of Ancient Egypt,” was known for his military strength and successes in foreign battles, which was reflected in the design of the Fifth Pylon and its inscriptions..

• Magnificent sculptures: The fifth pylon features reliefs and sculptures on the walls that depict scenes from the famous battles led by King Thutmose III, especially his military campaigns in the Levant, known as the Battle of Megiddo. The reliefs depict minute details about the preparations for military campaigns and the events of the battle, making it a pictorial record of King Thutmose III’s history in strengthening the Egyptian army.
• Religious and political texts: The walls of the fifth pylon contain texts that tell of the victories achieved by King Thutmose III, and show his loyalty to the god Amun, who was considered the protector and supporter of the king in his military campaigns. The texts describe King Thutmose III returning from his battles, presenting spoils and offerings to the god Amun, thanking him for the victory.

Religious and political importance

• A symbol of royal prestige: The Fifth Pylon is not just a gate, but a symbol of national pride and military victories, as it represents the military power possessed by Thutmose III, and documents his role as a victorious leader and conqueror of new regions.
• His role in religious rituals: The Fifth Pylon was used as a major site for annual religious ceremonies in ancient Egypt, where sacred processions passed and offerings were made to the god Amun. King Thutmose III used this pylon to renew his connection with the ancient Egyptian gods, which strengthened his legitimacy as the legitimate ruler of the country after the death of Queen Hatshepsut.

Inscriptions and artworks

• Victory boards: The monument is decorated with panels depicting the military campaigns of King Thutmose III, which highlight his military strength and successful management of battles. These panels were an invitation to the people to remember the king’s victories and his strong rule.
• Architectural details: The edifice is characterised by a massive architectural design that reflects the greatness of King Thutmose III. The walls were decorated with bas-reliefs depicting the moments of Thutmose III’s victory, making it an essential part of the architecture of the Karnak Temple.

King Thutmose III Facts

• Egyptian Pharaohs king of Eighteenth Dynasty of Egypt, The New Kingdom.
• The Funerary Temple Of King Thutmose III in Deir El Bahari.
• Tomb of King Thutmose III | KV34 in the Valley of the Kings, Luxor.
• Wife: Queen Merytre-Hatshepsut.

Sixth Pylon in Karnak Temple

The construction of the sixth pylon dates back to King Thutmose III, who played a major role in the expansion and development of the Karnak Temple.

King Thutmose III the Warrior was known for his architectural and military achievements that made his reign one of the golden periods in the history of the New Kingdom, especially the reign of the 18th Egyptian Dynasty..

Sixth Pylon in Karnak Temple Function:

• Center for religious celebrations: The Sixth Pylon was used as the main site for religious rituals and the major annual celebrations held at the Karnak temple complex, and was a focal point of the religious processional route. The Pylon played a major role in the Opet Festival celebrations, as ceremonial processions carrying statues of the gods passed through it from the Holy of Holies to the sacred lake and from there to Luxor Temple.
• Location between temple halls: The Sixth Pylon is strategically located as a link between the inner halls of the Karnak temple complex and the Great Hypostyle Hall, making it a major point of access to the rest of the temple. The pylon links the sacred area of ​​the temple with the halls designated for public ceremonies, allowing priests to perform rituals in a specific order.

Inscriptions and symbols

• religious inscriptions: The sixth pylon contains reliefs depicting King Thutmose III offering sacrifices to the god Amun, and thanking the gods for their support in his wars and victories. The reliefs also include ritual scenes expressing the loyalty and close connection between King Thutmose III and the god Amun.
• religious symbols: The monument was designed to be a symbol of protection and power, with reliefs depicting King Thutmose III surrounded by ancient Egyptian gods, symbolizing his protection and acceptance as a legitimate king thanks to the support of the god Amun.

Political and religious importance

• A symbol of sovereignty and legitimacy: The sixth pylon is an affirmation of the legitimacy of Thutmose III’s rule, and a documentation of his victories that increased his status in the eyes of the people and the priests. The pylon formed part of the royal propaganda that strengthened the king’s authority before the public.
• His role in royal rituals: Since the Sixth Pylon was the point of entry into the sacred interior, it played a role in reinforcing the sacred nature of the temple. Rituals began from the Pylon and continued through the rest of the temple halls, thus establishing the sanctity of the place and making the Sixth Pylon an integral part of the religious rituals at Karnak.

Sixth Pylon Main entrance

General location:

The Sixth Pylon is located on the eastern axis of the Karnak Temple. It is one of the smallest of the Karnak pylons in terms of size, but it is of great religious and architectural importance. It was ordered to be built by Thutmose III and served as the final gateway on the eastern side of the temple, leading to the most sacred areas, including the Hall of Annals and the Holy of Holies..

Materials used: The monument was built of sandstone, while its gate was made of granite and covered with electrum (a mixture of gold and silver), which gave the entrance a special luster and reflected a symbol of wealth and grandeur.

Naming and religious significance

• Names of the monument: King Thutmose III named the sixth pylon “the Great Inner Pylon”, and its gate “the Great Gate of Amun”. These names were used in ancient Egyptian texts, reflecting the religious significance of the pylon as a symbol of divine majesty and the sacred status of the god Amun.
• The gate as a symbol of sacred passage: The gate was considered a symbol of the transition from the outside world to the sacred areas of the Karnak temple complex, as this entrance leads to the area of ​​the Holy of Holies room and the Annals Hall, which contains inscriptions and religious texts documenting the victories of King Thutmose III.

Architectural design

• Dimensions and Height: The sixth pylon is about 15.7 metres wide and 12.5 metres high, and is considered one of the smaller pylons compared to the fourth and fifth pylons. The pylon is characterised by a relatively simple design that befits its status as an internal entrance rather than a massive external façade.
• Side compartments: The sixth pylon was distinguished by the presence of side chapels on its northern and southern sides, which contained statues of King Thutmose III and statues of ancient Egyptian gods, making it a sacred passage to the central area of ​​the temple, where religious rituals and ceremonies were performed and offerings were made.

Thutmose III Festival Hall

The Hall of Celebrations or “Akh Menu” built by King Thutmose III on the eastern side of the temple of the god Amun-Re is considered his Annals Hall.

This hall contains detailed inscriptions documenting Thutmose III’s military achievements, including campaigns he led against enemies, and is believed to have been designed to celebrate military victory and the achievement of Egyptian sovereignty in the surrounding areas.

The reliefs show fine details of his battles, making the hall an important historical record that illustrates Thutmose III’s greatness and power as a great war leader..

• Entry to the annals hall: The main entrance to the Sixth Pylon leads directly to the Annals Hall, which contains inscriptions documenting the victories of King Thutmose III and his military campaigns, especially the famous Battle of Megiddo. The Annals Hall is an important place for recording military and historical events that reflect the power of the Egyptian kingdom.
• The first diary in history: The Annals Hall associated with the Sixth Pylon is one of the oldest examples of war diaries, where King Thutmose III recorded the details of his campaigns and victories. This work is considered the first complete military documentation in history.

The political and religious symbolism of the gate

• religious symbolism: The pylon represented the “entrance to the throne of the god Amun”, and it was believed that passing through this gate gave the king and the priests the blessing to enter the Holy of Holies and communicate with the gods in heaven. The sixth pylon expresses the direct connection between King Thutmose III and the god Amun, and is considered a step in confirming the religious legitimacy of King Thutmose III.
• Political symbolism: Entering the gate was a symbol of victory and royal power, especially since the inscriptions show King Thutmose III offering sacrifices and addressing the ancient Egyptian gods, symbolizing victory and absolute control. The gate was used as a means of embodying the greatness of King Thutmose III and his legitimacy as the ruler of Upper and Lower Egypt.

Architectural and subsequent influence

• Reuse in later periods: Kings such as Ramesses II, Ramesses IV, and Ramesses VI added their inscriptions and names to the Sixth Pylon, indicating their appreciation for the pylon and their desire to be associated with it as an affirmation of their divine relationship with the god Amun. Multiple inscriptions were added to the walls of the pylon in later eras, making it a continuous historical record of the kings of ancient Egypt.
• architectural impact: The sixth pylon became a model for architectural construction that reflects the transition from the courtyard to the most sacred areas, and the same idea was used in other pylons built in the temples of ancient Egypt, where it embodies the gradual transition from the outside world to the world of the gods.

The main entrance to the Sixth Pylon is more than just a gate; it is a symbol of passage into the world of the sacred, and a witness to the greatness of ancient Egypt and its kings, who made it a religious and political record that embodied their legitimacy, military power and divine connection..

Thutmose III Festival Hall Facts

• The purpose of building the festival hall of King Thutmose III was religious, which was to celebrate the Sed Festival and the annual Opet Festival (festivals in ancient Egypt), in addition to building royal buildings for King Thutmose I to glorify him..
• The hall was built in the 23rd year of the reign of King Thutmose III and took 7 years to build, 3400 years BC..
• Architects and craftsmen used water clocks made of stone in the form of a bowl containing a small opening through which water descended at a constant rate to know the time..
• 32 square columns were built with roofs on top that allowed sunlight to enter. In addition, there were two stone statues in front of the entrance to the hall, wearing full royal attire to celebrate the Opet festival, but the two statues are now broken.

Tutankhamun Hall

Two statues of the god Amun and the god Mut were carved during the reign of King Tutankhamun, and two columns with papyrus and Egyptian lotus flower capitals were built from pink granite. After the death of King Tut, King Horemheb seized the two statues and attributed them to himself.

Temple of God Ptah in Karnak Temple

The Temple of Ptah is located in the northern part of the Karnak Temple Complex, and is considered one of the subsidiary temples dedicated to the worship of the god Ptah, the god of creation and industry in ancient Egyptian mythology.

This temple was built to be the center of the worship of Ptah in the city of Thebes, the capital of ancient Egypt in the 18th Dynasty, as the god Ptah was associated with the powers of creation and innovation, and was considered the god of crafts and industries..

The importance of the god Ptah in Egyptian belief

The god Ptah is one of the most prominent deities in ancient Egyptian belief, representing creative and innovative forces. The Egyptians viewed Ptah as the god who created the world through his thought and word, and was closely associated with craftsmen, builders, and artisans. The temple of the god Ptah was a place where Egyptians worshipped and sought blessings and protection in their work, especially in the fields of construction and sculpture..

Ptah Temple Layout

The Temple of Ptah has a simple design in keeping with its nature as a sanctuary for the industrial and creative god. The temple consists of a main entrance leading to a small courtyard, then to a colonnade leading to the Holy of Holies, the most sacred place in the temple where the statue of the god Ptah was placed.

The temple was built in a manner consistent with the worship of the god Ptah, as workers and craftsmen would resort to it before starting their work to receive blessings..

Inscriptions and decorations of the Temple of Ptah

The walls of the Temple of Ptah contain inscriptions showing scenes of kings offering sacrifices to the god Ptah, and the kings are depicted in positions of reverence and reverence, with Ptah shown as a god holding the “Was” and “Ankh” scepters and the “Djed” symbol, expressing strength and continuity.

Some of the inscriptions also contain texts in ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics expressing requests for blessings and protection from the god Ptah.

These inscriptions reflect the importance of Ptah as a god who provides protection and support to craftsmen and artisans..

Rituals and Ceremonies at the Temple of Ptah

Rituals to the god Ptah included offerings, such as food and drink, and the placement of amulets that blessed handicrafts. Artisans would visit the temple before beginning construction or sculpting projects, where they would perform rituals to ask for blessings for their work.

The Egyptians believed that Ptah would provide inspiration and skill for their artistic work, so the temple of Ptah was a place to seek spiritual help before undertaking any creative or crafty work..

Expansions and modifications to the Temple of Ptah

Some kings made minor expansions to the temple of Ptah over the ages, especially in the later periods, where the Ptolemaic kings added inscriptions expressing their appreciation for the god Ptah. These modifications and additions show that the worship of Ptah continued into the later periods, and that his status did not change in the hearts of the Egyptians, as he remained a symbol of industry and creativity even in later periods..

The role of the Temple of Ptah within the Karnak complex

The Temple of Ptah complements the multiple rituals and cults of the Karnak temple complex, as it is the center of worship of the god of creation and industry, which distinguishes it from other temples dedicated to different gods such as the god Amun and the god Khonsu.

This temple embodies the role that Ptah played in the daily lives of the Egyptians, and reflects the integration of the gods worshiped by the Egyptians at Karnak, as each temple represents an aspect of Egyptian life, from fertility and power, to creation and innovation..

The symbolism of the Temple of Ptah and its impact on craftsmen

The temple of Ptah was a spiritual sanctuary for craftsmen and artisans, reflecting his role as a creative and powerful god who provided them with strength and protection. Known for his ability to transform ideas into reality, Ptah represented the essence of creativity and mastery. For the ancient Egyptians, Ptah was the one who blessed their work and gave them the skill to perform their crafts, whether it was construction, sculpture or carpentry..

Cultural and religious context of the Temple of Ptah

The Temple of Ptah is part of the cultural and religious heritage of the ancient Egyptians, as it expresses the extent to which the Egyptians were proud of their craftsmanship and mastery in the field of arts and industries. Their reverence for the god Ptah shows their close connection to the idea of ​​manual work and creativity as part of their religious life, and the Temple of Ptah is a witness to this commitment to craftsmanship and creativity as a sacred value.

Temple of God Ptah facts:

• The funerary temple was built during the reign of King Thutmose III on the stone ruins of a demolished temple built during the Middle Kingdom of Egypt..
• Emperor Tiberius (Ptolemaic era) made architectural expansions inside the temple in the first century AD..
• King Horemheb carried out restorations, and then Kings Ptolemy III and Ptolemy IV built funerary buildings in the outer courtyard of the temple of the god Ptah..
• The main goal of building the temple was to glorify the god Ptah, the god Sekhmet, and their son, the god Nefertum.
• A group of stone statues bearing the name of the god Ptah, the god Osiris, the god Mut and the god Bastet were found after excavations and antiquities searches near the temple.
• The ancient Egyptians were interested in drawing inscriptions on the walls of the Holy of Holies room inside the temple of the god Ptah holding the scepter of the god Amun-Ra and inscriptions with the ancient Egyptian gods in addition to carving a stone statue of the god Ptah and his wife, the goddess Sekhmet..
• Royal cartouches were drawn and carved on the walls of the first gate with the name of King Ptolemy VI (Ptolemaic era) in addition to scenes and drawings of King Ptolemy XI and King Ptolemy III offering sacrifices to the ancient Egyptian gods and a carving of the god Nefertum holding a lotus flower..
• An inscription of King Thutmose III was drawn on the walls of Gate No. 6 of the temple entrance, wearing the white crown and another inscription wearing the red crown, expressing his control over the regions of Upper and Lower Egypt..
• Royal cartouches are inscribed on gates 2, 3, and 4 bearing the name of King Ptolemy XIII (Ptolemaic Period), while the cartouches of gate 5 bear the names of King Ptolemy III and King Thutmose III.

Sacred Lake in Karnak Temple

The lake is located at the end of the east-west axis, and was used for purification and washing purposes by the ancient Egyptians, where priests would purify themselves before performing religious rituals.

It is said that it was a sacred habitat for birds, and symbolizes the eternal waters from which the universe emerged, which enhances its ritual and religious significance..

The Sacred Lake is an important part of the temple of the god Amun-Ra, and is located to the west of the Great Hypostyle Hall. It is about 20 meters wide and about 80 meters long, and was used during religious rituals to purify the priests and prepare them for worship.

The presence of the lake in Egyptian temples is considered a symbol of fertility and eternal life. The sacred lake in the Karnak Temple Complex may have played an important role in ceremonial rituals, as it was used to perform some purification rituals and annual religious celebrations. I

t was carefully preserved by the priests of Amun throughout the ages for more than 3,000 years and still maintains its water level to this day.

Dimensions and location: The Sacred Lake is located south of the Temple of Amun-Ra in Karnak, and is one of the largest known sacred lakes in Egyptian temples. It is about 120 meters long, 80 meters wide, and 4 meters deep.

Lining and design: The lake was lined with stone to ensure the stability of its walls and protect it from erosion. It was equipped with stone stairs leading to the water surface, facilitating access to the water to perform various rituals. It was built during the reign of King Amenhotep III (18th Egyptian Dynasty).

Religious and symbolic function

• Purity and Rituals: The sacred lake played a pivotal role in ancient Egyptian religious rituals, as it was used by the priests of the temple of the god Amun for purification before performing daily religious rituals and rites, especially in the dawn ritual at the beginning of the daily rituals. The priests washed four times a day for purification, and washing in the waters of the lake was considered an essential part of the rituals that qualified the priest to communicate with the ancient Egyptian gods.
• Purification and the Holy Symbol: The lake symbolized the primordial waters, or Nun, from which arose the primordial hill in Egyptian creation mythology, the hill believed to be the first place created by the god. The lake thus represented a symbol of the primordial waters from which the world arose, enhancing its spiritual status.

Uses in Night Rituals and Sacraments

• sacred celebrations: In the evening, the priests used the lake to observe the stars and the reflection of the moonlight, considering it a mirror that reflects the movement of the celestial bodies, which gave a sacred character to their nightly rituals. The lake also played an important role in the nightly sacred secrets, as it reflected the celestial nature and symbolized the other world, indicating the development of science in ancient Egypt.
• Funeral rites: The lake was also used to purify the dead of high status as part of funeral rituals, as a form of sanctification and blessing with its sacred waters before burial.

Natural life around the lake

• Sacred birds and poultry: Around the lake lived many sacred birds such as swans and geese, which were used as offerings in temple rituals. There were special facilities for raising sacred poultry near the lake, and these facilities were connected to canals leading to the lake to ensure a water supply.
• Agricultural role: The lake’s waters provided nearby agricultural lands with moisture suitable for cultivation, reflecting the ancient Egyptians’ balance between the religious and economic functions of the sacred facilities in the temples.

Lake symbolism in ancient Egyptian culture

• Creation myth: The lake reflects the religious concept of eternal waters in the Egyptian creation myth, which describes water as the source of life and the fountainhead of creation. The lake embodied this concept, as the ancient Egyptians considered it a manifestation of Nun, the symbol of eternal life.
• Association with holidays and celebrations: The lake was an essential part of festivals such as the Opet Festival, when sacred boats would pass over its waters in ceremonial processions, making it the centre of annual celebrations at Karnak Temple.

Scarab of King Amenhotep III in Karnak Temple

• Scarab statue: Next to the sacred lake is a huge scarab statue of King Amenhotep III, made of granite and considered a symbol of the god “Kheper” or “Scarab”, who represents renewal and rebirth. The scarab is believed to bring good luck and was used in rituals associated with the lake.

legend of Scarab of King Amenhotep III:

• The ancient Egyptians believed that circling the scarab seven times brought good luck and blessings. The scarab statue is still a prominent landmark in the area around the lake today, and visitors consider it a symbol of good fortune and good luck.
• The scarab was carved from solid black granite during the reign of King Amenhotep III and was a gift to his wife, Queen Tiye..
• The legends of the Pharaohs say that whoever circles around the scarab seven times will have his wishes and dreams fulfilled, get married, have children for barren women, bring good luck, and many other ancient Egyptian legends..
• Scenes carved on the stone base of the sacred scarab represent King Amenhotep III kneeling and offering wine to the god Aten in order to gain immortality.

Sacred lake Facts:

• The secret of the miracle of the stability of the water level of the Holy Lake has not yet been discovered, and that it does not dry up, decrease or increase with the rain..
• Remains of a mud-brick wall were found that surrounded the sacred lake. The wall was exposed over the ages to erosion and the effects of climate..
• The ancient Egyptians built a ladder to descend to the bottom of the lake and a gauge to know when the Nile would flood.
• The myth of the destruction of humanity was linked to the decline in the water level of the sacred lake..
• There are legends that say that the waters of the sacred lake cure all diseases that medicine has failed to cure, in addition to that women who cannot give birth will give birth as soon as they bathe in the lake..
• The legends of the Pharaohs say that whoever comes to the sacred lake and tells it his dreams will quickly come true.

Seventh Pylon – Courtyard of the Cachette in Karnak Temple

The construction of the Seventh Pylon dates back to King Seti I of the 19th Dynasty of Egypt, one of the greatest kings of ancient Egypt, who was known for his military campaigns and architectural achievements.

King Seti I expanded the Karnak Temple, and the Seventh Pylon was one of his most notable achievements. The pylon completes the architectural planning of the south-north axis of the Karnak Temple..

The seventh edifice is now almost demolished.

The religious and symbolic significance of Seventh Pylon:

• religious inscriptions: The Seventh Pylon contains reliefs showing King Seti I in performance scenes before the god Amun, where the king stands to offer obeisances and offerings, symbolizing his loyalty and protection by the god. These reliefs are considered a religious and historical record of the king’s status with the priests and the Egyptian people.
• His role in the rituals of the Opet festival: The Seventh Pylon led to the Cache Courtyard, an important site for the Opet Festival, one of the most sacred festivals of ancient Egypt. On this festival, statues of Amun, his wife Mut, and their son Khonsu were carried in sacred processions from the Holy of Holies at Karnak to the Luxor Temple, where the powers of the gods were reenacted and renewed. The Seventh Pylon was a key stop on this ritual route, as it was blessed as it passed, giving the pylon a special sanctity.

Political and religious functions of Seventh Pylon

• Symbol of royal power: The Seventh Pylon is a majestic representation of the power of King Seti I, as the inscriptions embody the royal power and divine support that the king enjoyed from Amun, which increases his legitimacy and enhances his respect before the people.
• Architectural design: The Seventh Pylon was built to connect the southern and northern parts of the Karnak Temple, and to form a link between the other pylons and the courtyard of the cache. This strategic location allowed the smooth passage of royal and religious processions, and ensured that the king retained a central role in religious rituals, reflecting the sanctity and grandeur of the Karnak Temple.

Eighth Pylon in Karnak Temple

• religious symbols: Inscriptions containing signs and symbols of eternal life and prosperity appear, as King Seti I expresses his wishes for prosperity for Egypt and its people under the protection of Amun.

The Eighth Pylon was built during the reign of Queen Hatshepsut of the 18th Dynasty, one of the greatest queens in ancient Egyptian history.

Hatshepsut’s reign was marked by stability, economic growth and commercial expansion, and she was keen to add new buildings and expand the Karnak Temple to reflect her power and status. The Eighth Pylon is one of her major projects in Karnak, as it represents part of her desire to enhance her political and religious presence.

Eighth Pylon Features and landmarks:

• Sculptures depicting the Punt campaign: The eighth pylon features reliefs and sculptures depicting the sea expedition to Punt, one of the most famous trade expeditions of the reign of Queen Hatshepsut. These sculptures show details of the journey the Egyptians made to Punt to bring back precious goods such as incense, wood, ivory, and gold, which were intended for use in religious rituals and to decorate Egyptian temples, and demonstrate the development of foreign trade in ancient Egypt.
• Historical inscriptions: The reliefs depict detailed scenes of Egyptian ships and Queen Hatshepsut’s men loading goods, providing a unique glimpse into the seafaring and commercial skills of the time. These reliefs express the strength of the Egyptian economy and its extensive trade relations, and also reflect Queen Hatshepsut’s wisdom in promoting trade rather than war. Similar reliefs and drawings were painted on the funerary temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari in Luxor.

The religious significance of Eighth Pylon

• Honoring the god Amun and his wife, the god Mut: The eighth pylon was built to honor the god Amun, the main god of ancient Egypt, and his wife, the god Mut. By building this pylon, Queen Hatshepsut wanted to confirm her loyalty to the ancient Egyptian gods, and asked for their support in all her royal endeavors, whether commercial or religious.
• Role in religious rituals: The Eighth Pylon played an important role in the ritual path of the annual pharaonic celebrations, as royal processions passed through it to reach the rest of the Karnak temple complex. The pylon was also a special location for receiving blessings from the gods during major religious celebrations.

The political impact of Eighth Pylon

• Symbol of the legitimacy of Queen Hatshepsut: By building the eighth pylon, Queen Hatshepsut wanted to strengthen her legitimacy as the legitimate pharaoh ruling the regions of Upper and Lower Egypt, as she sought to emphasize her relationship with the god Amun, which would enhance her status in the eyes of the priests and the people.

Eighth Pylon Inscriptions and symbols

• Religious and commercial symbols: The reliefs depicted scenes of offering gifts to the god Amun, symbolizing the appeasement of the gods to ensure Egypt’s protection and prosperity.

Four stone statues were built and carved during the reign of King Thutmose III and King Amenhotep I and placed in front of the eighth pylon.

Ninth Pylon in Karnak Temple

The Ninth Pylon was built during the reign of King Horemheb (18th Dynasty of Egypt). Horemheb was a military leader before becoming the legitimate king of the country after receiving the official royal coronation ceremony and marrying Queen Ankhesenamun after the death of her husband King Tutankhamun. He was known for his extensive administrative and legal reforms after years of chaos, which made him focus on restoring order and stability.

The construction of this pylon was part of his efforts to revive the temples of the ancient Egyptian gods, especially the god Amun, especially in Karnak, and to enhance his role as a warrior king and reformer..

Ninth Pylon Design:

• War sculptures: The Ninth Pylon features sculptures depicting Horemheb’s military victories, reflecting his achievements as a military leader. The reliefs depict scenes from Horemheb’s battles, where he is shown leading his soldiers and reviewing his victories over Egypt’s enemies, which was intended to emphasize the power of the Egyptian state and restore its prestige after previous turmoil.
• Royal Power Symbols: The edifice contains symbols and inscriptions representing the support of the ancient Egyptian gods for King Horemheb, especially the god Amun, as the king is depicted receiving blessings from the gods as evidence of his legitimacy and right to rule. These inscriptions indicate the role of King Horemheb as a firm ruler supported by the ancient Egyptian gods from the sky.

The religious and symbolic significance of Ninth Pylon

• Gate to the temple of the god Khonsu: The Ninth Pylon is the gateway to the temple of Khonsu, son of the god Amun, who was worshipped as the god of the moon and protector of the Egyptians in travel and war. The temple of Khonsu is part of the Karnak complex, and the presence of the Ninth Pylon as its entrance reflects the importance of King Horemheb’s role in promoting religious rituals and emphasizing the worship of the trinity of the ancient city of Thebes (the god Amun, the god Mut, the god Khonsu).
• Strategic location: The Ninth Pylon is located between the south-north axis of the Karnak Temple Complex and is part of the royal ritual and processional route, through which ceremonial processions passed on religious holidays and occasions. This pylon was a landmark in strengthening religious rituals and linking them to the temple of the god Khonsu.

Symbolic inscriptions and political impact

• Religious symbols and royal texts: The Ninth Pylon documents the military victories of the leader and king Horemheb, and indicates his support by the gods as the powerful legitimate leader of the country and ruler of the throne of ancient Egypt. These symbols reflect his attempts to restore stability and order after periods of instability, and emphasize that the monarchy was derived from the gods and based on their support.
• Political impact: The Ninth Pylon was a catalyst for both the people and the army, expressing the king’s power and role as protector of Egypt, contributing to his prestige and the people’s loyalty to him as a legitimate ruler and authority supported by the gods from heaven.

Tenth Pylon in Karnak Temple

King Horemheb began construction of the Tenth Pylon, but it was completed during the 30th Egyptian Dynasty, meaning that construction continued for a long time and was added to over several eras..

Job: Part of the southern entrance to the templeThe tenth pylon forms an important part of the southern entrance to the temple of the god Amun-Ra, and was used as the main entrance providing access to the temple.

Importance: The focus of royal celebrations The pylon was an essential part of the royal ceremonial axis, as it was used as an entrance to the Opet festival, reflecting its importance in the religious and social life of ancient Egypt.

Architectural design: Like the rest of the edifices in the Karnak Temple Complex, the Tenth Pylon is distinguished by its grand and magnificent architectural design, which reflects the power and greatness of the king and the importance of worship in Egyptian culture..

Inscriptions and decorations: Symbolic inscriptions The walls of the edifice contain inscriptions and decorations that reflect the rituals and celebrations that were held, in addition to religious symbols that glorify the god Amun.

Additional Notes: Additions Over the AgesAs with many of the pylons at Karnak, the Tenth Pylon has undergone modifications and additions over time, making it an example of architectural development in ancient Egypt.

Temple of God Mut

The Temple of Mut is located on the southern side of the Karnak temple complex, near the Temple of Amun-Ra, and is part of the Theban Triad, representing the god Amun-Ra, the lord of the gods, Mut, his wife, and Khonsu, their son. The temple is located near the sacred lake, reflecting its association with religious beliefs about fertility and femininity..

The importance of the goddess Mut in Egyptian belief

The goddess Mut was the embodiment of motherhood and protection, and was considered the mother goddess and wife of the god Amun. Her name is derived from the word for “mother”, and she played the role of a protective mother to the pharaohs of ancient Egypt and their subjects, which led to her being highly revered.

God Mut was considered the goddess of mercy and protection, and a symbol of feminine power in ancient Egyptian belief. She was also associated with the elements of fertility and the earth, and her presence was believed to bring fertility and stability to Egypt..

Temple of God Mut inscriptions and decorations:

The walls of the temple of the god Mut are decorated with fine carvings depicting religious and ceremonial scenes, showing the ruling king offering sacrifices to the god Mut, and presenting her as a protective mother of the people and the pharaohs.

The carvings also contain scenes depicting pharaonic queens and princesses offering allegiance to the god Mut, reflecting the importance of the goddess as a symbol of femininity.

Symbols associated with fertility and procreation also appear on the walls of the temple, illustrating the importance of these elements in the role of the god Mut in the religion of the ancient Egyptians..

Crescent-shaped sacred lake

The sacred crescent-shaped lake is a prominent feature of the Mut temple, used for purification rituals and religious ceremonies. The crescent shape is believed to symbolize fertility and femininity, reflecting the role of the goddess Mut as a symbol of life and giving.

This lake was considered a key element in the rituals of the Mut temple, and it is believed that the priests used the lake’s waters in purification rituals performed before entering the temple..

Rituals and Ceremonies at Temple of God Mut

The Temple of Mut was the center of many rituals and ceremonies related to motherhood and fertility. The ancient Egyptians believed that Mut blessed crops and children, and brought stability and peace to families and communities.

The temple hosted ritual offerings of flowers and offerings, as well as purification rituals using the waters of the sacred lake.

These ceremonies were intended to strengthen the connection between the people on earth and the Egyptian goddess in the sky, and to ensure prosperity and protection from evil..

Temple of God Mut Expansions

The temple of the god Mut witnessed expansions and additions throughout the ages, as some pharaohs added new decorations and inscriptions expressing their honor for the goddess Mut.

It is believed that Queen Hatshepsut had contributions to the expansion of the temple, especially in adding inscriptions that highlight the god Mut as a symbol of motherhood.

The sanctification of the god Mut continued throughout the ages, and the Ptolemaic and Roman kings made some modifications to the temple, which shows the continuity of the worship of the god Mut even in later periods..

Temple of God Mut & Theban Triad

The temple of Mut is an important part of the sacred trinity in the ancient city of Thebes, which includes the gods Amun-Ra, Mut, and Khonsu.

The temple of Mut represents the feminine and maternal side of this trinity, and reflects her role as protector and mother in Egyptian religious belief.

The cult of Mut was an essential part of the religious activities in the Karnak temple complex, and was integrated with the cults of Amun and Khonsu to form a comprehensive religious system that reflects the diversity and depth of ancient Egyptian beliefs..

Religious context and symbolism

The Temple of Mut expresses the ancient Egyptians’ aspiration to maintain balance and peace, and embodies the concept of femininity as a sacred force that gives life and protection. The temple is a witness to the Egyptians’ vision of the world and the spiritual relationship between man and nature, as the goddess Mut embodies the role of a caring mother who protects and cares for the land and its people..

Temple of God Mut Historical facts in Karnak Temple

• The temple was built of sandstone on an area of ​​5,000 square meters during the reign of King Amenemhat I (12th Dynasty, Middle Kingdom), but it was not completed and was completely built during the reign of King Amenhotep III (18th Dynasty, New Kingdom). As it is now, it contains 6 small temples: the Temple of the God Mut, the Temple of Contra, Temples A, B, C, and D..
• During the reign of King Ramses II, two statues were carved from sandstone and added inside the temple, as well as groups of stone plaques bearing the name of King Ramses II..
• King Taharqa (25th Dynasty) was interested in developing the temple of the god Mut and building funerary buildings bearing his name from sandstone..
• During the reign of King Ramses III, he tried to seize the temple of the god Mut and attribute it to himself, but with the passage of the rule of the pharaohs until the 25th Egyptian dynasty, the temple was partially demolished and its stones were reused to build other parts of the Karnak Temple Complex..
• The temple was discovered in 1801 AD by Commander Napoleon Bonaparte during the French campaign in Egypt. Then in 1845 AD, the inscriptions, drawings and architectural design of the funerary temple were studied by Dr. Karl Richard Lepsius, a German archaeologist and Egyptologist.”
• Archaeologists Dr. Margaret Pepinson and Dr. Janet Gourlay were interested in studying the temple inscriptions. Then in 1991 AD, the American Brooklyn Museum missions carried out excavations and digs inside and around the temple. Then from 2001 to 2004 and 2015, the American Johns Hopkins University mission led by Dr. Betsy Bryan continued the excavations around the temple of the god Mut..
• Foreign missions discovered a group of royal cartridges dating back to the reign of King Thutmose II, stone tablets from the reign of King Thutmose III, in addition to a stone statue of Queen Tiye carved from granite, “the wife of King Amenhotep III.””
• A statue of King Amenemhat I and King Tutankhamun was found, as well as stone statues of the priest Hapu-Seneb and the priest Wesen-En-Mut (reign of Queen Hatshepsut), in addition to a carved stone statue of King Amenhotep I with the god Mut and a statue of the priest Amenemhat-Ankh..

Temple of Mut layout

The Temple of Mut is characterized by a unique architectural design that reflects the symbolism of motherhood and protection attributed to this goddess.

The temple consists of a large courtyard leading to the hypostyle hall, then to the Holy of Holies room where the statue of the god Mut was placed. One of the most prominent features of the temple is the sacred lake in the shape of a crescent, which was used in religious and purification rituals by the priests and kings and queens of the pharaohs.

This design highlights the symbolic and spiritual aspects associated with the god Mut, and the design of the temple reflects the ancient Egyptian belief that glorified the role of women and mothers.

A soft brick wall was built around the temple of the god Mut during the reign of King Nectanebo II (Dynasty 30).

Temple of God Khonsu in the Karnak Temple Complex

The Temple of Khonsu is located in the southern part of the Karnak temple complex, near the Temple of Amun-Ra. This temple is an important mortuary temple within Karnak, and was built specifically for the god Khonsu, who was one of the members of the Theban Triad along with Amun and Mut.

Its location within the larger complex reflects the importance of the god Khonsu in ancient Egyptian religious belief..

The importance of the god Khonsu

The god Khonsu is the moon god in ancient Egyptian mythology, and was considered a healing god and master of time and space. He was described as bringing light, healing and protection to individuals, especially children, as he was believed to have a role in driving away evil spirits and protecting people from disease.

The cult of the god Khonsu was particularly devoted to the city of Thebes, where he had an independent temple within the Karnak temple complex, reflecting the importance of this god as part of the Theban triad..

Temple of God Khonsu Layout

The temple of the god Khonsu is characterized by a complex and beautiful architectural design that reflects the level of architectural art that developed during the New Kingdom period.

Temple of God Khonsu consists of a main entrance leading to a large courtyard surrounded by a row of decorated columns, then to a hypostyle hall containing a group of columns with decorated capitals. Behind the hypostyle hall is the Holy of Holies room, which is the most sacred place in the temple where the statue of the god Khonsu was placed.

This layout shows the Egyptians’ interest in designing sacred spaces in a way that reflects the greatness of the god residing in them..

The foundations of the temple of the god Khonsu were built during the reign of King Ramses III, then King Herihor (the Twenty-First Egyptian Dynasty) by building a group of funerary buildings and carving drawings and inscriptions on the walls of the temple.

Then King Nectanebo I (the Thirtieth Egyptian Dynasty) built the hypostyle hall, then King Ptolemy III (the Ptolemaic era) built the main gate and the walls from the outside.

Temple of God Khonsu Decorations:

The walls of the temple of the god Khonsu are decorated with fine carvings depicting religious scenes and celebrations specific to the god Khonsu.

The carvings show images of kings and priests making offerings to the ancient Egyptian goddess, and the walls contain texts in ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics recording prayers and spells that were used in worship rituals. In addition, the capitals of the columns are decorated with plant motifs that reflect the symbolism of life and renewal.

These carvings are evidence of the attention to the details of religious life and the role of the god Khonsu in the lives of the ancient Egyptians..

Ceiling and Celestial Inscriptions

The ceiling of the temple of Khonsu is a unique aspect of its design, as it contains celestial inscriptions that include symbols of stars and planets, reflecting Khonsu’s association with the moon and his role as a moon god.

These inscriptions are believed to have been part of the astronomical rituals associated with the temple, as it is believed that the priests used the ceiling to determine the positions of the stars and use them in astronomical calculations related to time and the Egyptian calendar..

Rituals and ceremonies at Temple of God Khonsu

The temple of the god Khonsu was the center of several religious celebrations, most notably those associated with the lunar cycle. The Egyptians believed that the god Khonsu had a healing power, so the temple was used in therapeutic rituals aimed at granting health and healing to the sick.

Statues of Khonsu were carried in ceremonial processions during major occasions, where they were transported from the Holy of Holies room and placed in a wooden boat that the priests carried around the temple, to be blessed by the people and the kings and queens of the pharaohs..

The Temple of Khonsu is an important part of the Karnak temple complex, completing the Theban triad alongside the Temple of Amun-Re and the Temple of Mut. The cult of Khonsu was part of the main rituals performed at the Karnak complex, making it an essential component for understanding the religious makeup of Thebes..

Gate of King Ptolemy III

Some modifications and additions were made to the Khonsu Temple during the reign of the Ptolemaic kings, as the Ptolemaic kings added some decorations and inscriptions that reflect their religion and appreciation for the god Khonsu.

A huge front gate known as the Gate of King Ptolemy III (Eurgetes) was also built, which is part of the development of the temple during this period, and reflects the interest of the Ptolemaic kings in preserving the sanctity of the Karnak temple complex and adding their own character.

Temple of Amenhotep IV “Akhenaton” in Karnak Temple

The remains of the temples of the god Aten are located in the eastern part of the Karnak complex. They were built during the reign of King Akhenaten (Amenhotep IV), who made a great religious revolution by introducing the worship of the god Aten, the sun god, as a single god and abolishing the worship of other Egyptian gods and moving to Tell el-Amarna in the Minya Governorate.

The construction of these temples was an expression of the monotheistic doctrine promoted by Akhenaten. The temples were oriented towards the east to reflect the movement of the sun, which represented the god Aten..

The importance of the god Aten in the new belief

The god Aten is the embodiment of the sun disk, and King Akhenaten considered him the supreme god from whom light and life emanated for all creatures.

The Atenist belief called for the worship of one god without intermediaries, as light was embodied as a symbol of goodness and giving. It was believed that Aten was the sole source of creation, and that his rays blessed King Akhenaten and the people and gave them life.

Thus, King Akhenaten established a new religious system that was different from the traditional Egyptian belief, and he became the only mediator between the god Aten in heaven and the people on earth.

Temple of Amenhotep IV Design

The temples of the god Aten were distinguished by their simple architectural design, different from the traditional temples of the gods in ancient Egypt.

The temples were built in an open space to be under direct sunlight, as worship took place in the open air, reflecting the unique character of the Aten cult that celebrated the sun as a source of light and energy.

The temples consisted of low platforms, exposed columns and basins for offering sacrifices, rather than the enclosed halls or long corridors that were common in the temples of the god Amun and other ancient Egyptian gods..

Temple of Amenhotep IV “Akhenaton” Inscriptions:

Unlike other ancient Egyptian temples of gods that contained carvings of figures of gods, no human images or figures of the god Aten appeared in his temples, but rather the sun rays were depicted reaching the earth with outstretched hands bearing the symbol of “ankh” (life), to reach King Akhenaten and his family only, symbolizing that King Akhenaten was the direct mediator between Aten and the people.

The carvings also include scenes of King Akhenaten, Queen Nefertiti and their children receiving blessings from Aten, reflecting the great importance of the royal family in the Aten faith..

Rituals and worship in Temple of Amenhotep IV “Akhenaton”

The worship in the temples of the god Aten was radically different from the traditional rituals. The rituals of the god Aten were based on the presentation of sacrifices and the recitation of hymns and songs glorifying Aten as the source of all life.

The rituals of worship were simple and did not require priests as in the temples of other Egyptian gods, as the rituals were usually performed in the presence of King Akhenaten and his family, which confirms the idea of ​​monotheism and direct communication between King Amenhotep IV and the god Aten. King Akhenaten was considered the high priest in the worship of the god Aten, and he led the ceremonies and rituals himself.

Religious revolution and opposition

The idea of ​​worshipping the god Aten and monotheism was a great and surprising revolution for the Egyptians, and it faced strong opposition from the priests of the temple of the god Amun, especially the leader Horemheb, and the traditional religious classes who lost their power and influence.

The temples of the god Amun were considered an important religious and economic center, so the worship of the god Aten came as a direct challenge to the priests of the god Amun and their position. This conflict led to great tensions in the state, and contributed to spreading discontent among the Egyptians who were clinging to their ancient traditions.

Dismantling of Temple of Amenhotep IV “Akhenaton” after the Death of Akhenaton

After the death of Akhenaten, subsequent pharaohs sought to restore the old religious traditions and return to the worship of the god Amun and other deities.

King Horemheb ordered the dismantling of the temples of the god Aten and the removal of their remains as part of efforts to eliminate the effects of the Aten religious revolution. Stones from the temples of the god Aten were used as fillers for other pylons and temples, especially in the construction of the Second Pylon in the Karnak temple complex, where these stones were reused as a symbol to affirm the return of traditional religious authority..

Religious and artistic heritage

Despite the dismantling of the temples of the god Aten, the legacy of the Aten Revolution lives on through texts and murals documenting the religious and artistic transformation led by King Akhenaten. A unique artistic style, which emerged during the reign of King Akhenaten (18th Dynasty), Amarna art is characterized by realistic depictions and realistic expressions, a style that continued in some parts of Egypt even after the end of the religious revolution.

This legacy reflects the distinctive artistic style and profound social change that the worship of the god Aten brought about in the lives of the ancient Egyptians.

Role of Temple of Amenhotep IV “Akhenaton” in developing the concept of monotheism

The establishment of the temples of the god Aten in the Karnak temple complex is considered one of the first attempts to develop the concept of monotheism in human history, as King Akhenaten developed a new vision of the one god and rejected the polytheism of ancient Egyptians that was prevalent.

Although the Egyptians returned to their traditional religion after his death, the temples of the god Aten and the worship of the sun god Aten constituted a unique stage in the history of ancient Egypt, and are an example of how belief can be affected by politics and change with the change of rulers.

After searching and excavating in the Temple of Amenhotep IV in Karnak, the following was discovered::

• 40A thousand stone pieces were restored, collected and displayed in Egyptian museums and are displayed in the Luxor Museum.
• A sandstone block engraved with scenes of King Akhenaten wearing the blue crown and next to him the falcon-headed god Aten. The artifact is on display at the Berlin Museum in Germany.”
• 25A sandstone base that was used as the bases for the statues of King Akhenaten, which were made of red granite and sandstone.
• A stone statue of King Akhenaten, 13 and 9 meters long. The art of sculpture in the Amarna period carved the stomach and facial features of King Akhenaten large, the arms small, and the genitals hidden and not covered..
• In 1925 AD, an American mission led by Dr. Henry George Fisher discovered 25 stone pieces bearing the name of King Akhenaten.

Temple of God Montu

Temple of God Montu located in the northern part of the complex Temples Karnak, considered one of the templesFuneralThe temple is dedicated to the worship of the god Montu, the god of war and power in Egyptian mythology.

The temple site forms part of the architectural composition of the complex.Temples Karnak, symbolizing the status of the god Montu as a protector and warrior, called upon to protect Egypt and enhance its power..

The importance of the god Montu

Temple of God Montu is one of the oldest gods in ancient Egyptian belief, and was associated with military strength and courage.

The god Montu was symbolized by the head of a falcon and wore two crowns representing strength and greatness.

He was known as god Montu as a god represents struggle and protection in battles, and wasPharaohs KingsThe Egyptians consider him a patron god during wars and battles, and this temple was built to honor his strength and role in protecting the Egyptian state..

Temple of God Montu Layout

The temple is characterized by god Montu with his design Architectural Engineer Simple compared to temples god Amun-Ra at Karnak, consisting of a main entrance leading to an open courtyard, followed by a hypostyle hall and then room Holy of Holies.

The temple contains columns decorated with symbols and inscriptions depicting scenes of war and victories Pharaohs Kings, reflecting the nature of worship god Montu as a warrior. The temple was designed to reflect the symbolism of protection and determination that Montu brings god montu to Egypt Old.

Temple of God Montu inscriptions and decorations

Temple of God Montu has unique engravings depicting war scenes that embody Pharaohs Kings Egyptians in fighting positions, expressing his role as a warrior and supporter of the Egyptians in battles. The walls of the temple are decorated with drawings and texts.

In ancient Egyptian it tells of battle victories, and depicts the god Montu holding a weapon, along with scenes ofPharaohs KingsThey offer sacrifices to him, asking him to protect them in their battles against enemies..

Temple of God Montu Rituals and Ceremonies 

Temple of God Montu special rituals and ceremonies focused on invoking the power of the god to support the kingThe rulerAnd the people in times of war.

Among these rituals were offering sacrifices and praying for victory before battles. These rituals were performed under the supervision of priests, where the statue of the god Montu was prepared and transported in a special procession as part of war celebrations.

These rituals were intended to raise the morale of the warriors and bring blessings from the god Montu..

Expansions and modifications through the ages

Over the ages, the Temple of Montu has undergone some expansions and additions, especially in the later ages. Pharaohs Kings like the king Amenhotep III and the king Ramses II added parts to the temple and decorated it with more inscriptions expressing their military victories.

He also added someKingsThe Ptolemies later produced inscriptions relating to their rule and achievements, reflecting the continued reverence for the god Montu across different periods..

Role of Temple of God Montu within the Karnak complex

Temple of God Montu was an important part of the religious structure of the complex Temples Karnak, where the two temples are completed god Amun Ra and god Khonsu.

His presence is part of the spiritual makeup of Thebes Old, where he is considered the god of war, strength and protection, while god Amun the supreme god and god Khonsu is the moon god.

This diversity of deities reflects the ancient Egyptians’ comprehensive relationship with the different forces of nature and life..

Historical context and symbolism

Temple of God Montu in Karnak expresses ambition Pharaohs Kings to maintain their power and confirm their victories, it was a place to seek divine help and to emphasize the role of the kings as defenders of Egypt.

The temple reflects god Montu is associated with the ancient Egyptians’ spirit of war and protection of their land, and remains a testament to the culture of ancient Egypt that glorifies heroism and strength..

Temple of God Taweret “Ipet”

Temple of God Taweret is located in the southern part of the Karnak complex, near the temple of god Khonsu.

This temple was built in honor of the goddess Opet, who was worshiped as the goddess of fertility and giving, and was associated with seasonal ceremonies held within Temple complex Karnak.

The Temple of Opet is part of the sacred Karnak complex, and shows an important aspect of the religious life of the ancient Egyptians..

The importance of the goddess Opet in Egyptian belief

She was the goddess Opet embodied fertility and giving, and was seen as a protective goddess who brought fertility to the lands and increased agricultural growth.

She represented god Opet played an important role in religious festivals and agricultural seasons, and was considered a goddess whose blessings were bestowed to the Nile River and farmers.

She was also considered a protector of children, and the ancient Egyptians believed that her presence ensured safe births and safety for families..

Temple of God Taweret Plan

The temple is characterized by god Opt with architectural designSimple geometric Compared to the great temples inTemple complexKarnak.

It consists of a main entrance leading to a courtyard, followed by a small hypostyle hall, leading to room The Holy of Holies where the statue of the goddess was placed Ancient Egyptian Despite the simplicity of the temple, its design reflected the sanctity of the goddess and her role as a symbol of fertility, and it was considered a place for rituals that enhanced her role as a goddess who bestowed goodness and prosperity..

Temple of God Taweret Inscriptions:

Decorate the walls of the Temple of God Taweret is decorated with religious and ceremonial scenes, depicting Egyptians offering sacrifices to the goddess Opet.

The reliefs also contain scenes depicting fertility celebrations, showing farmers in harvest scenes being blessed by the goddess. Opet is also shown accompanied by the king and priests who offer her sacrifices, and the walls of the temple are decorated with symbolsriverThe Nile and plants as a sign of giving and growth.

Rituals and ceremonies at Temple of God Taweret

Temple of God Taweret was the center of many religious rituals and celebrations, the most famous of which was the “Opet Festival,” which was considered one of the largest religious celebrations that were held in city Thebes.

During this festival, the statue of the god Amun and the goddess Opet was transported from the Temple of Amun at Karnak to the Luxor Temple via river the Nile in a grand procession, and this festival was believed to symbolize the renewal of the king’s power and the fertility of the land.

This ritual was intended to enhance fertility and renew the energy of the gods in the land and society.

Temple of God Taweret Expansions 

Temple of God Taweret t has undergone expansions and additions over the ages, as it hasPharaohs KingsBy increasing the area of ​​the temple and decorating it with additional reliefs.

were among those who added to the temple, decorating it with reliefs showing the king making offerings to the god Opet.

The veneration of god Opet was considered an important goddess in the lives of the Egyptians even in later periods..

The symbolism of the Temple of God Taweret and its role in Egyptian life

It is considered a Temple of God Taweret was a symbol of the value of fertility and giving in ancient Egyptian life, and represented a strong link between the Egyptians and the land that gives them life.

This temple reflects the Egyptians’ appreciation of the role of fertility in their lives, and their reverence for the goddess who gives them goodness and growth.

The temple was also considered a place for spiritual communication with the cosmic forces associated with the Nile and agriculture, making it an essential part of religious life in city Capital of ancient Egypt in the New Kingdom.

The relationship of the Temple of God Taweret with the Temple of Amun-Ra and the Luxor Temple

The goddess Opet was considered a deity closely associated with the god Amun, as she participated in the celebrations of the “Opet Festival” that linked the Temple of Amun at Karnak and the Temple of Luxor. On this festival, a statue of god Amun and god She was brought to Luxor as part of a ritual that restored the fertility of the land and blessed the ruler.

This relationship reflected the integration of the gods in ancient Egyptian belief, and how each goddess had a specific role in the religious life of the Egyptians..

The religious legacy of Temple of God Taweret

Temple of God Taweret was smaller than the other temples in Temple complex Karnak, but it played a major religious and social role in the lives of the ancient Egyptians.

Temple of God Taweret is a testament to the Egyptians’ belief in the powers of fertility, and reflects their connection to nature and divine bounty.

Opet represented a symbol of fertility and bounty, and the temple maintained its religious status until later times as an important place for agricultural rituals and celebrations.

Temple of God Montu in Medamud

The Temple of Montu is located in the Madamud area, about 8 kilometers northeast of Luxor, and is considered one of the temples dedicated to the worship of the god Montu, the god of war and power in ancient Egypt.

The Temple of Montu was distinguished by its strategic location outside the Karnak complex, to be a center for the worship ofgodMontu in the Madamud area, reflecting the importance of the god Montu as a warrior god and protector of the city..

The temple is characterized bygodMontu in Madamud has a unique design that reflects its function as a sanctuary for the god of war.

The temple consists of a main entrance leading to a large courtyard, followed by a hypostyle hall surrounded by rows of columns decorated with reliefs representing war scenes.

At the end of the hall, there isroomThe Holy of Holies, which is considered the most sacred place in the temple where the statue of the god Montu was placed.

The overall design of the temple reflects a military character, indicating the status ofgodMontu as a Revered God in Ancient Egypt.

Inscriptions and decorations in the Temple of Montu

The temple contains god Montu has rich carvings and decorations showing scenes of war and victories Pharaohs Kings The god Montu is depicted holding symbols of power and victory.

The inscriptions also show Pharaohs Kings They offer sacrifices For God Montu asking him for protection and victory in battles.

These inscriptions highlight the status of god Montu as a god blesses kings and provides protection to Egyptian forces, and these decorations were considered a symbolic element that instilled fear in the hearts of enemies and enhanced the strength of the Egyptian army..

Rituals and Ceremonies at the Temple of Montu

It was a temple god Montu in Madamud was the center of many war rituals, where he wasPharaohs KingsThe priests offered sacrifices before battles to seek the blessings of the god Montu.

It is believed that the worship rituals in this temple also included rituals to renew military strength, as the statue of god Montu was paraded in special processions as part of rituals to seek protection and victory.

The Egyptians believed that the presence of the god Montu gave them spiritual protection and increased their strength during battles..

History of construction and expansion of the temple

Temple of God Montu in Medamud has undergone several expansions and modifications over the ages Construction of the temple began during the reign of Kingdom of Egypt Middle, specifically during the reign of King Senusret I of the Twelfth DynastyEgyptian, who ordered the construction of the first buildings of the temple.

He added Pharaohs Kings Later Eighteenth Dynasty 19 and 20 in the ancient Egyptian state Further expansions were made to the temple, and its walls were decorated with new inscriptions expressing military victories. era Ptolemaic kings The rulers added more decorations and inscriptions that showed their respect for the god Montu..

Symbolism of the Temple of Montu and its relationship to Karnak

It is considered a Temple of God Montu in Medamud complements the temple god Montu is located in the Karnak complex, where they play a fundamental role in enhancing the image of the king as a warrior and protector of the people.

Temple of God Montu in Medamud acts as a spiritual base outside Temple complex Karnak, reflects the importance of military power in Egyptian culture, as this temple emphasizes the connection between kingship, military power and the protection of the country.

The relationship between the two temples was god Montu in Karnak and Madamud symbolize the integration of religious and military power in Egypt..

The religious and symbolic context of the Temple of Montu

Temple of God Montu in Medamud, a witness to the Egyptians’ vision The ancients The role of power and war as part of the cosmic order, as they believed that the support of the gods Ancient Egyptian like god Montu grants them sovereignty and victory.

The Temple of Montu reflects the military nature of ancient Egypt, which was considered a symbol of divine power and support in difficult times. The temple also symbolized the protection of the Egyptian land from enemies thanks to divine care.To the god Montu.

The role of the Temple of Montu in religious and political life

Temple of God Montu in Medamud was a religious center that expressed the military vision of the ancient Egyptians, and played an important role in confirming the legitimacy of the kings as warriors and leaders of the people.

Pharaohs Kings They came to this temple to perform rituals that enhanced their status as protectors of the land, and the temple was also used as a sanctuary to invoke divine power before engaging in battle. Furthermore, the temple wasgod Monto plays a political role as a symbol of protecting Egypt and preserving its unity from external threats..

Karnak Temple Complex working hours:

Open daily from 07:00 AM to 05:00 PM.

Karnak Temple Complex Location and address:

East Bank of the Nile, North of Luxor Temple, Luxor, Egypt.

Karnak Temple Complex ticket price Until November 2024

Adult = 600 EGP

Student or child from 5 to 12 years old = 300 pounds

Child from 0 to 5 years = free

Researcher’s opinion: Tamer Ahmed Abdel Fattah Youssef

• Every Egyptian Pharaohs Kings who ruled ancient Egypt and reached the verdict, He is very interested in leaving it in his own Antiquities, funerary temple, religious buildings, columns or even a stone statue in a temple complex Karnak, Not only for the reason of sanctifying the god Amun and the ancient Egyptian gods, but also for the reason of gaining power and being a legitimate ruler of ancient Egypt and completing all His tasks Assigned by the Egyptian gods in the sky.
• The positive thing about managing the country’s affairs in History Of Egyptian Civilization, There was a special institution for building funerary temples, and the interest and appreciation of sculptors, architects and artists was remarkable, which helped in the development of the art of sculpture and architecture in ancient Egypt until the reign of Queen Cleopatra VII in the Ptolemaic era..
• The religious belief of the ancient Egyptians is always the magic wand in the hand of the king Pharaonic, The more he appeared before the people as the son of the god Amun and the legitimate mediator on earth between the Egyptian gods in heaven, the more the people listened to his words and carried out what he said, the more his power and influence increased, the more the influence of the priests of the Temple of Amun increased over all the villages and regions of Upper and Lower Egypt..
• The myths and legends of the Pharaohs about the ancient Egyptian gods were what created fear among the people that they were slaves and that there was only a royal court class close to the ruling king can One approaching it.
• Lots of stone statues on the way Rams,The columns in the Great Hypostyle Hall, the statues of the Temple of King Ramses III, and the walls of many temples and monuments urgently need to be assembled, restored, and restoration rates increased more from that, I advise increasing the number of Egyptian researchers in the field of restoration in Egyptian faculties of archaeology on how to restore Egyptian temples old, Restorations that The Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities is moving at a very, very slow rate..
• The presence of street vendors around the Karnak Temple Complex and shops inside the temple must be eliminated quickly. Sideways, Because They provide pictures Messi and For Egypt, few of them care about Egypt’s foreign reputation..
• if You intend to visit the Karnak Temple Complex through day trips from the Red Sea cities or Cairo, Know You areYou will only get 60 minutes with the guide with the bus tours, 75 minutes with the minivan tours and 2 hours with the private tours or until Nile cruise trips Nile,In the end, you need 6 hours to visit all the corners of the Karnak Temple Complex, take pictures and discover the secret of the pharaohs, really, and not just that come To take pictures in the Great Hypostyle Hall.
• If you love History Of Egyptian Civilization, You need to book a hotel in Luxor and it begins Your cultural tour from early morning freely and visit all corners of the Karnak Temple Complex from 08:00 am.

Karnak Temple Complex Historical facts

What is the importance of the Karnak Temple Complex?In ancient Egyptian civilization?

The Karnak Temple, or the Karnak Temple Complex, is one of the most important and greatest monuments of ancient Egyptian civilization and one of the most prominent temples in the world.

This historical site, located about 3 kilometers north of Luxor Temple, includes several temples, the most important of which is the Temple of Amun-Ra, which is considered the heart of the complex and the largest in size.

The Karnak Temple is characterized by the diversity of its architectural style and its blending of different eras, making it a living witness to the development of Egyptian civilization for more than two thousand years, starting from the Middle Kingdom to the Byzantine era..

The Karnak Temple features a set of fixed architectural components that are repeated in most ancient Egyptian temples, such as the Holy of Holies, and the pylons, which form the main façade of the temple, with the temple usually consisting of one or two pylons in the outer buildings.

In the case of Karnak, ten pylons were built on two axes; six on the east-west axis, and four on the south-north axis..

The east-west axis represents the daily movement of the sun from its rising in the east to its setting in the west, highlighting the spiritual role of Amun-Ra as the sun god, while the south-north axis represents Amun’s annual journey from his temple at Karnak to Luxor Temple during the Opet festival, which ritually represents the return of the flood to agricultural life and the prosperity of the Egyptians.

What is the phenomenon of the sun’s rays falling perpendicularly on the Karnak Temple Complex?

The Holy of Holies chamber in the Karnak Temple Complex was built so that the sun’s rays would fall perpendicularly once a year on December 21 and enter the chamber and the sacred shrine of the god Amun, which indicates the development of astronomy and engineering in the era of the New Kingdom.

What are the sound and light shows at Karnak Temple Complex?

The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities recently restored the temple and held sound and light shows to tell the tourist visitors coming from around the world the history of the temple’s construction and the historical facts associated with it in several languages ​​(Arabic, English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Japanese) and these languages ​​are currently being increased.

Who built the Karnak Temple in Egypt?

The Origins of Karnak Temple: From the Middle Kingdom to Later Dynasties

The Karnak Temple is believed to have existed since the Middle Kingdom. The octagonal column of King Intef II of the 11th Dynasty, now on display in the Luxor Museum, is the oldest archaeological evidence of the existence of a temple of Amun at Karnak.

The temple contains monuments of some of the kings who ruled in succession, such as Senusret I of the 12th Dynasty, who contributed to the construction of many of the structures within the temple. The kings of the New Kingdom chose the same site for their structures..

Architectural expansions through the ages

Over time, the kings of different dynasties contributed to the construction and expansion of the Karnak Temple. During the reign of King Thutmose I, a huge pylon and a northwestern courtyard were built for the Middle Kingdom courtyard, and two obelisks were placed, of which only the southern obelisk remains.

Queen Hatshepsut also added two obelisks, one of which still stands today, in addition to building other pylons on the southern side of the temple.

King Thutmose III built a new pylon and established the famous ceremonial hall called “Akh Menu”, and dug the sacred lake, which is a prominent landmark in Karnak..

In the New Kingdom, King Amenhotep III expanded the temple and added new elements. However, during the reign of King Akhenaten, construction at Karnak came to a halt, as he closed the temples of the gods except for the Aten, which brought about a halt in architectural activity at the Temple of Amun-Re.

After the end of the Amarna period, King Horemheb resumed the construction of the monuments and the reconstruction of the temple, ordering the dismantling of the Aten temples and the reuse of their stones..

When the Nineteenth Dynasty kings arrived, the Great Hypostyle Hall between the Second and Third Pylons was built by Seti I and completed by his son Ramesses II, and is considered an exceptional architectural achievement.

With the succession of kings, Ramesses III added a small temple within the temple of Amun-Re, and other structures were built during the Twenty-second Dynasty..

Additions to the Karnak temples continued into the Ptolemaic period, with Ptolemy III building a gateway at the temple of Khonsu, and a sacred shrine built within the temple’s Holy of Holies. In the Roman period, some small structures were added in honor of some Roman emperors.

What is the largest temple complex in Egypt?

The Karnak Temple Complex is considered temple god Amun Ra the largest complex in Egypt containing funerary temples from the ancient Egyptian civilization.

The main temple of Amun-Ra at the Karnak complex

The Temple of Amun-Ra is the largest and most important temple in the Karnak complex, and one of the greatest temples of the ancient world.

It was dedicated to the worship of the god Amun-Ra, who was considered the sun god and the supreme king of the Egyptian gods.

The temple includes many architectural structures and colossal statues, and was built over centuries, with the kings of the 18th Dynasty and later adding many additions to expand and develop the temple, becoming the spiritual center of ancient Egypt..

East-West Axis (East-West) Details

1. Number of monuments: This axis contains six monuments, starting from the first monument and ending with the sixth monument.

South-North Axis (South-North) Details

1. Number of monuments: The south-north axis contains four pylons starting from the seventh pylon and ending with the tenth pylon, making it an important station for religious processions and representing the religious aspects and ritual life associated with the flood and the Nile.
2. Cache courtyard: This courtyard is located on the south-north axis and is one of the sacred sites in the temple where statues of deities used in religious rituals are kept.
3. Courtyard of Thutmose III: This courtyard is located on the south-north axis, and was specially built as part of the ninth edifice. It is used as an important ceremonial path on religious festivals and occasions such as the Opet Festival, where offerings and blessings are made.

• Architectural details: The Temple of Amun-Ra is characterized by a massive and powerful architectural design that reflects the grandeur of Egyptian royalty and the religious commitment of the kings. The temple appears as an integrated edifice that embodies the presence of the gods in the daily life of the Egyptians, making it a spiritual and cultural center of the ancient Egyptian kingdom.

Southern pylons of the Temple of Amun

The four southern pylons of Karnak Temple form an important part of the second axis of the pylon, which runs from south to north. Built during the Eighteenth Dynasty, they were used as a ritual route to return the god Amun to Karnak Temple after his annual journey to Luxor Temple during the Opet Festival..

The second axis as a symbol of life and the Nile: The second axis, running from south to north, is closely linked to the movement of the Nile River, which was a symbol of life and fertility in ancient Egyptian civilization. On this axis, the procession of the god Amun passes through the four southern pylons, on its return journey from Luxor Temple to Karnak Temple, where the procession stops at each pylon as part of the rituals that glorify Amun and renew the divine power of the king and the people..

The role of the southern monuments in the Opet festival: The Opet festival was an important religious symbol of spiritual and political renewal, with rituals performed to ensure the gods supported and protected the king, and to renew the fertility and prosperity of the Egyptian land.

When the god Amun returned from his journey to Luxor Temple, the procession passed through these southern edifices, and was greeted by the crowds with hymns and reverence.

These edifices served as stations for divine manifestation, with the god Amun appearing symbolically to affirm his support for the ruler and reinforce his status as a divine ruler..

Religious symbolism of the southern monuments: The southern pylons of the Temple of Amun embody a profound connection between religious rituals and the movement of the Nile, as this path represents a clear link between religion and nature in ancient Egypt.

These pylons were an important means for the kings to link their authority to the divine world, as they imitated the flow of the Nile as a source of life.

The symbolic and religious significance of the Temple of Amun-Ra

• Design and Symbolism: The east-west axis represents the daily cycle of the sun, and embodies the relationship of Amun-Ra as the sun god with the movement of the sun from sunrise to sunset. While the south-north axis reflects the annual flow of the Nile River and its association with the fertility of the land and agricultural life, as this axis corresponds to the arrival of the annual flood and the provision of life to Egypt.
• Ritual processions: The Temple of Amun-Ra is a major site for the Opet Festival celebrations, when processions carrying statues of Amun, Mut and Khonsu pass from Karnak Temple to Luxor Temple, renewing the god’s connection with the people and reinforcing the king’s spiritual powers.

What is the Secret of Karnak Temple?

Challenges in the Study of Karnak Temples

Studying the Karnak temples is a challenge because of their many parts and complexity. Some of their ancient structures were demolished and reused as fillers in later buildings, making their history and restoration a delicate and complex matter.

For example, the ten pylons of the Temple of Amun, which contain a large number of stones used in the construction of the pylons, were originally part of other buildings. Amun-Ra is one of the most important Egyptian gods, and his name is mentioned in the Pyramid Texts.

It is believed that the worship of Amun began in the Old Kingdom, although it is difficult to pinpoint the exact beginning of his worship at Karnak.The study of the Karnak Temple requires a deep understanding of all aspects of ancient Egyptian history, art, and religion, in addition to relying on the latest archaeological and analytical techniques to reconstruct the true image of this great archaeological monument for the following reasons:

Complexity of architecture and multi-era

The Karnak Temple is a massive architectural complex spanning centuries, from the Middle Kingdom to the Byzantine era.

It was built and developed over different eras, resulting in an overlap in architectural and decorative styles, leaving behind diverse architectural monuments that combine different architectural styles and techniques.

This complexity makes studying and understanding Karnak a major challenge, as researchers must analyze successive time layers and architectural styles to understand the development of the temple and determine which ones belong to each era..

Reusing ancient stones and temples

Throughout its history, Karnak has witnessed repeated destruction and rebuilding, with some temples and buildings being demolished and reused as filler for the construction of new monuments. For example,Hour MahforUsing stones from the Aten temples built by Akhenaten as filler for the construction of the second pylon.

This repeated use of ancient stones makes it difficult for scholars to determine the origins of many of the stone pieces, and requires great effort to re-document these items and understand their original locations..

Disappearance of parts of buildings and architectural elements

The Karnak Temple has been subjected to partial destruction and deliberate demolition over the course of various eras, whether as a result of natural disasters or human interventions, which has led to the loss of important parts of the temples and monuments.

This disappearance hinders the ability to obtain a complete picture of the original temple as it was, and requires scholars to reconstruct these parts through the remaining evidence, ancient drawings, or even guesswork based on architectural comparisons..

Ritual and religious complexity

The Karnak Temple was a place of worship for a number of Egyptian gods, most notably the god Amun. The rituals of worship and the importance of the gods changed over time, adding another layer of difficulty to understanding the symbols, statues and inscriptions that were placed for specific religious purposes in that period.

Understanding these rituals requires a deep study of the religious texts and hieroglyphic inscriptions that remain, as well as linking them to the cult practices specific to each historical period..

Complexities of restoration and conservation

Carrying out restoration work on Karnak is a huge challenge in itself. Over the centuries, Karnak has been subjected to erosion and damage due to natural factors, such as weathering and groundwater. Restoration requires meticulous technology to preserve architectural details and inscriptions, and to maintain a balance between preserving the original features and updating the structure to support it and protect it from future damage..

Overlapping temples and multiple holy places

The Karnak complex includes many different temples and sections, such as the Temple of Amun-Ra, the Temple of Khonsu, the Temple of Mut, and other sacred places.

It is difficult for researchers to determine the boundaries between these temples, due to their overlap and distribution within a single architectural complex, which makes it difficult to separate the temples from each other and determine the boundaries of each one, and requires a deep understanding of the layout of ancient temples and the worship rituals specific to each temple.

Difficulties in excavating and re-arranging antiquities

Because Karnak has existed for thousands of years and has been in frequent use, excavations are carried out with great care to ensure the preservation of what remains.

Artifacts are often intertwined with each other, and archaeologists must carefully handle each stone piece to preserve as much detail as possible, and re-arrange them chronologically and spatially in a way that contributes to a better understanding of the temple and its heritage..

Difficulty interpreting texts and inscriptions

The walls of the Karnak Temple contain thousands of hieroglyphic inscriptions recording the achievements and deeds of kings, as well as religious texts documenting rituals.

Interpreting these texts is a major challenge, requiring a thorough understanding of the hieroglyphic language, identifying the religious symbols and deeper meanings behind each inscription. Scholars differ in their interpretation of some inscriptions, sometimes leading to differences in the historical and archaeological assessment of events..

Architectural symbolism and its role in religious perception

Karnak is characterized by a complex architectural structure that is closely linked to the Egyptian religious faith.

Each pylon and column in the temple symbolizes a particular religious concept or belief, such as the symbolism behind the shape of the wavy walls that symbolize the eternal waters.

This symbolic depth requires scholars to have a comprehensive understanding of Egyptian religious symbols and their influence on architecture, and imposes a difficulty in interpretation as each symbol has multiple possible interpretations.

Why is it called Karnak? What is the spiritual meaning of Karnak Temple?

The origin of the name of Karnak Temple and the names given to it throughout history

The name “Karnak” has intrigued archaeologists, with some suggesting that it derives from an Arabic word used in Upper Egypt, specifically meaning “fortified village.” According to Berger, this word has Upper Egyptian Arabic roots that are still used in some areas of Sudan. However, some believe that the word is foreign, which raises debate about the origin of the name..

Dr. Ahmed Badawi, in his book “The Procession of the Sun”, suggests that the word may be derived from “Khawarnaq”, a palace built in Iraq, near the city of Najaf, and erected by King Al-Nu’man bin Al-Mundhir. He believes that the name changed over time to become “Karnak”. As for Dr. Ahmed Fakhry, he linked the name to a village that was close to the temple, and thus the temple took the name of the village with which it was historically associated..

Another interpretation provided by Dr. Ahmed Issa indicates that “Karnak” is of ancient Egyptian origin meaning “temple of Amun” or “the great shouter”, meaning the sacred bird of Amun, which was an important symbol in Egyptian culture.

The origin of the Karnak temples dates back to the Middle Kingdom, where the core of the temple was built between the chapels of Philip Erygis and Hatshepsut, passing through the hypostyle hall built by Hattomi III, whom we call Akh Minor.

This area is currently about a kilometer or more away from the western bank of the Nile, but at the time of construction it was close to the Nile bank, which the Nile has certainly changed its course over the course of 4,000 years and deviated slightly to the west.

Throughout Egyptian history, the Karnak temples have been given several names, each reflecting an aspect of the site’s importance and culture:

1. Bar- Amon: In the period before the Twelfth Dynasty, the Karnak Temple was known as “Per-Amun”, which means “House of Amun”. This name is found on a stela dating back to the reign of King Intef II of the Eleventh Dynasty, indicating its importance as a place of worship.
2. Ibet Suit: At the beginning of the reign of King Senusret I, the temple was called “Ipet Sut”, meaning “the chosen spot for the bride of the gods”. This name refers to the sanctity of the area enclosed from the fourth pylon to Akh Menu, which was considered a sacred area according to Dr. Sayed Tawfik.
3. Wizard of bits: From the 12th Dynasty until the reign of Amenhotep IV (Akhenaten), the temple was called “Sahir-e-Pet”, meaning “sky above the earth”. This name shows how Karnak was considered a place where the earthly world blended with the spiritual world.

4. Nesut-Tuwa: This name translates to “Throne of the Two States,” indicating the temple’s status as a center of government and authority, as it was considered a symbol of unity between Upper and Lower Egypt. This name reflects the political and religious role the temple played in promoting the stability of the state.
5. Ipet-Eset: This name means “the most magnificent seat,” and refers to the grandeur of the architecture and unique design of the Karnak Temple. This name also shows the temple’s status as a major center of worship and reverence, making it one of the most magnificent temples in the ancient world.

These different names show how the Karnak Temple was considered a great spiritual and cultural center in ancient Egypt, as the names highlight the deep and symbolic meanings associated with the gods and spirituality..

What is the architectural style of Karnak Temple?

The Karnak Temple follows a special architectural design that includes ten pylons arranged on the east-west and north-south axes. The first axis expresses the daily movement of the sun, while the second axis represents the return of Amun from his annual journey on the Opet festival, in symbolic connection with the Nile flood.

This arrangement shows the priests’ awareness of the symbolism and natural directions of Egyptian civilization..

Architectural structure and geological developments:

The Karnak temples were founded in the Middle Kingdom, with the core of the temple built between the chapels of Philip Arges and Hatshepsut and the hypostyle hall of Hathmose III, known as Akh Minor.

The temple is currently about a kilometer from the west bank of the Nile, but when it was founded it was close to the banks of the Nile.

Over the course of 4,000 years, the Nile has changed its course and deviated slightly to the west, and the land has risen due to the annual Nile floods, at a rate of 1 mm per year before the construction of the High Dam.

There is a theory that suggests that the Karnak Temple was originally built on an island or peninsula surrounded by water on all sides except the eastern side, according to Dr. Mohamed Abdel Kader.

This is evidenced by a text dating back to the 13th Dynasty, which states that King Sobekhotep crossed the river to the northern palace through the water, suggesting that Karnak was surrounded by water at that time until the beginning of the New Kingdom..

In addition to the above, Karnak Temple stands out as one of the largest and most magnificent architectural structures of the ancient world, and its historical and cultural legacy continues to provide great value in the study of ancient Egyptian civilization.

The continued expansion of temple construction and associated facilities by the kings of the Eighteenth Dynasty reflects the role this temple played in influencing religious and political life in Egypt..

Over the ages, the Karnak Temple has undergone many modifications and additions. Besides the Temple of Amun-Ra, which is the most prominent part, there are many smaller temples and sanctuaries that were built by other kings such as Thutmose III, Ramses II, and others.

Temples such as the Temple of Mut and the Temple of Khonsu are considered part of the Great Karnak Temple, as these temples are dedicated to the worship of the gods of each king or god..

Religious and ritual, they were used in worship rituals and the education of priests. The priests at Karnak Temple played a major role in organizing these rituals and guiding the Egyptian people towards the correct worship, which highlights their position in ancient Egyptian society.

Karnak Temple continues to provide rich information about the history of Egyptian civilization through ongoing excavations and archaeological discoveries. In recent decades, the site has witnessed many restoration works that have contributed to the preservation of existing monuments and antiquities, and have also played a role in providing scientists with new information about construction methods and technologies used in ancient Egypt..

One of the most striking aspects of the Karnak Temple is its architectural design, which reflects the philosophy of ancient Egyptian life.

This design is not only about worship and honoring the gods, but also includes deep symbolism in the distribution of spaces and directions. The overall structure of the temple follows precise axes that aim to simulate the natural and cosmic forces that were considered essential to maintaining balance in the world.

The axes in the Karnak Temple also parallel the annual movement of the sun and the seasons, which were the focus of agricultural religious rituals that represented the renewal of life and fertility.

What is the layout of Karnak Temple?

Sections of the Temple of Amun: Main Components

The first six monuments

The first pylons are an essential part of the Temple of Amun-Re in Karnak. They are huge gates built in successive stages over several eras, each one representing the power and sovereignty of the kings who built them.

The first pylon consists of a huge façade built in the Thirtieth Dynasty by order of King Nectanebo I, and this façade is the main entrance to the temple.

It is followed by the second pylon built by Horemheb at the end of the Eighteenth Dynasty. Many stones from the dismantling of the Aten temples were reused to build this pylon, in an attempt to remove the traces of the religious revolution that occurred during the reign of Akhenaten.

The successive pylons extend to the sixth pylon, which is the smallest pylon in the Karnak Temple, and is located near the Great Hypostyle Hall..

Al Batin courtyard and gate

The courtyard and the Batin Gate are considered one of the most important sections that distinguish the temple from an aesthetic and architectural point of view.

This courtyard extends in front of the second pylon and is surrounded by two rows of huge columns on both sides. It is also called the “Bubastine Courtyard” after the Twenty-second Dynasty that built it. This courtyard contains inscriptions and drawings that immortalize the achievements of the kings who built it.

Its design reflects the unique Egyptian architecture of that period, as the kings of that era were interested in creating an open courtyard containing rows of columns that reflect the advanced architectural vision..

City II Cabin

The chapel of Seti II is a distinctive part of the temple of Amun-Re, located on the left side upon entering the first pylon. This chapel was intended for the resting place of the sacred barge carrying the statue of Amun-Re during religious festivals and major feasts.

The chapel is decorated with inscriptions and artistic details that reflect the importance of Amun-Re in Egyptian belief, and depicts scenes showing King Seti II making offerings to the god Amun.

Kiosk of Thutmose III

Thutmose III built a kiosk in the courtyard of the Temple of Amun to serve as a small temple within the larger temple. The kiosk is unique in its design, featuring two rows of large columns topped with floral decorations, which may have supported a wooden roof in the past.

The kiosk is an example of the architectural brilliance of Thutmose III’s reign, and the scenes depicted in it reflect the importance of this king as a warrior and as a prominent figure in strengthening the sovereignty of Amun..

Hatshepsut’s prayers and shrines

Queen Hatshepsut ordered the construction of a number of shrines and monuments in the Temple of Amun-Ra, the most prominent of which is her famous hall, which includes two towering obelisks, one of which still stands today.

Hatshepsut added artistic and decorative touches that embodied the pride and royal legacy she enjoyed, as the shrines included artistic engravings that illustrated the strength of her connection to the god Amun and her role as guardian of the throne of Egypt.

Middle Kingdom Courtyard

The Middle Kingdom Courtyard is considered the first nucleus of the temple, and represents an early stage of construction.

This court was built by the kings of the Twelfth Dynasty, and contains architectural remains dating back to the reign of King Senusret I. This court represents the main center around which later stages of expansion and development took place, as it is believed that the oldest buildings were located in this sacred area.

Holy of Holies: The Heart of the Temple of Amun-Ra

Holy of Holies location

The Holy of Holies is located in the deepest and most sacred area within the Temple of Amun-Re at the Karnak complex, and is the spiritual and religious center that represents the direct link between the priests and the god Amun.

The Holy of Holies was positioned at the end of the axis of the temple, behind a series of pylons, hypostyle halls and courtyards, and access to it was considered a great privilege, as only the highest priests and kings were allowed to enter it.

Holy of Holies Design

The Holy of Holies is distinguished by its unique architectural design, as it was built in a closed and stone manner to reflect the sanctity and grandeur of the place.

The Holy of Holies contains a main central room, where the sacred statue of the god Amun is placed, surrounded by small rooms used to store ritual tools and sacred gifts.

The design is also distinguished by the decorations and inscriptions that adorn the walls of the room, with hieroglyphic texts bearing prayers and glorification of the god Amun, reflecting the grandeur of the place and the importance of the god.

Statue of the god Amun

The statue of Amun was the centerpiece of the Holy of Holies, and was considered the manifestation of the god before the priests. The statue was usually made of gold or other precious materials, and was decorated with intricate details that highlighted its divine status.

The statue was believed to contain spiritual energy that enabled it to hear the prayers of the priests and provide protection for Egypt. The statue was placed in the Holy of Holies in a position that allowed the priests to perform rituals and invoke the god directly..

Rituals in the Holy of Holies

The Holy of Holies is the place where the most important and secret religious rituals were performed, as it was considered the main center for offering sacrifices and performing rituals specific to the worship of Amun.

The rituals included offerings of food, perfumes and flowers, as the priests believed that these offerings expressed their devotion and supplication to the god Amun. During these rituals, the priests would clean the statue and decorate it with the most beautiful clothes and sacred symbols, then offer prayers and hymns expressing a request for protection and guidance from the god.

The role of kings in the Holy of Holies

The kings’ visit to the Holy of Holies was an important part of their accession rituals and confirmation of their legitimacy as rulers of Egypt.

It is believed that kings visited the Holy of Holies to offer sacrifices to the god Amun and to implore him, asking for blessings and guidance in their rule.

Reliefs in the Holy of Holies depict some kings making sacrifices to the god and performing inauguration rituals, as this was considered a sign of the gods’ support for them as legitimate rulers..

Symbolism of the Holy of Holies in Egyptian belief

The Holy of Holies symbolizes the direct connection between the human world and the divine world, as it is considered the place of manifestation of Amun.

It represents a symbol of the closed universe, as the Egyptians believed that the gods resided within this sacred space and provided them with protection and light.

Because the Holy of Holies was considered the source of divine powers, the ancient Egyptians were careful to design it to be out of reach of the public, emphasizing its status as a symbol of holiness and spiritual manifestation..

Holy of Holies inscriptions

The walls of the Holy of Holies are decorated with hieroglyphic inscriptions and images depicting priests and kings offering sacrifices to the god Amun, as these inscriptions express the special rituals that were performed inside the place.

The inscriptions include sacred hieroglyphic texts that record special prayers and supplications, and these inscriptions are considered as supplications and messages to the gods to protect Egypt and its people.

The inscriptions highlight the role of the priests and their special relationship with the god, and show the king in various states that reflect loyalty and devotion to the god Amun.

Holy of Holies during holidays and celebrations

The Holy of Holies played a pivotal role during major festivals, such as the Opet Festival, when the statue of Amun was removed from the Holy of Holies and placed on a ceremonial barge carried in a grand procession by priests.

The procession moved through the city to the Luxor Temple, where the statue of the god was finally returned to the Holy of Holies amidst festivities, signifying the return of protection and blessing to Karnak and Thebes..

The Importance of the Holy of Holies in the Study of Ancient Egyptian Religion

The Holy of Holies is a fundamental element in the study of ancient Egyptian religion, reflecting the deep respect for the god Amun and the role of the priests in performing rituals.

The inscriptions and decorations found in the Holy of Holies have helped us understand the roles played by kings and priests within Egyptian temples, and have provided important details about the spiritual beliefs that prevailed at that time..

Historical facts aboutopen templeIn the Karnak Temple Complex

The purpose of creating the open temple

The open temple was created to display discovered artifacts whose original locations could not be determined by scientists or those found during the multiple excavations at the Karnak complex.

This temple aims to provide archaeological and educational information to visitors about the development of the temple and its most important elements, which gives them the opportunity to explore how architecture and decoration changed over the different eras..

Architectural planning of the open temple

The open temple is characterized by its organized design that allows visitors to move between the artifacts easily. Each artifact or statue is placed in a clear place and is accompanied by an interpretive sign explaining its history and importance.

The compartments are also arranged in a way that reflects the chronological sequence of Karnak’s history, so that the visitor can follow the development of the temple in a chronological order that highlights the features of each era..

Open temple as educational center

The open temple at Karnak is an important educational and cultural destination, where researchers and visitors benefit from this place to learn more about the development of the Karnak Temple and the importance of each of its parts.

It also allows students and archaeologists to study the inscriptions and statues up close, providing them with an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the ancient Egyptian faith and the architecture for which the ancient Egyptians were famous..

The importance of the open temple in preserving heritage

The Open Temple helps preserve many artifacts that would otherwise be damaged or lost if they were not properly displayed. By bringing these pieces together in one place, experts and visitors alike can explore the grandeur of Egyptian civilization and view artifacts that would otherwise be out of reach of the public.

The Open Temple is an essential part of preserving ancient Egyptian cultural heritage and architecture.

The role of the open temple in Karnak Temple Complex

The open temple adds a new touristic dimension to the Karnak complex, as it gives visitors the opportunity to wander freely among the artifacts and see their details up close.

The open temple is also an attractive destination for history and archaeology enthusiasts, as it provides them with a unique opportunity to discover many aspects of the Karnak Temple in a direct way, and enhances their understanding of ancient Egyptian history..

Open temple site in Karnak complex

The open temple is located within the Karnak complex and is an important educational and touristic site that provides an interactive experience for visitors to the archaeological site. This temple is distinguished by being open, as it is not limited to traditional walls or ceilings, but rather consists of a group of artifacts and archaeological exhibits that were placed in the open air, allowing visitors to see the pieces directly in daylight.

The role of the open temple as an educational museum

The Open Temple is a unique educational museum that displays a collection of artifacts discovered during archaeological excavations at Karnak, including columns, inscribed stones, hieroglyphic inscriptions, and statues found in the temples and nearby sites.

The Open Temple helps visitors understand the architectural history of the Karnak complex and the evolution of the temple’s architectural style over the ages, and provides an educational platform for researchers, students, and specialists to gain a greater understanding of the archaeological details..

Artifacts on display

The exhibits in the open temple include a variety of statues and reliefs that show different aspects of religious and royal life in ancient Egypt.

Among the important exhibits are large statues of gods such as Amun-Ra and Khonsu, in addition to parts of columns inscribed with hieroglyphic writings and parts of huge stone gates that were used as entrances to the different sections of the temple.

The open temple also displays stones decorated with original colors that clearly show the details of ancient Egyptian art..

hieroglyphic inscriptions and symbols

The open temple contains a large number of stones and hieroglyphic inscriptions that record the achievements of the kings and their religious rituals.

These inscriptions are an important source of information about ancient Egyptian beliefs, religious practices, and the importance of temples and gods.

These inscriptions also provide a description of the religious and political relationships that linked the king to the god Amun and other gods, and document the royal celebrations and festivals that were held at Karnak..

Reconstruction and classification of artifacts

The artifacts on display in the open temple were assembled from scattered fragments, some of which were used as fillers for other edifices and temples.

Archaeologists have arranged and classified these objects chronologically and historically, allowing visitors to see the objects in their original context and learn about the development of Egyptian architecture and inscriptions.

This effort reflects the process of retrieving ancient Egyptian history and reviving artifacts whose original locations have been lost to time.

Educating and educating visitors

The Open Temple provides explanatory panels and information accompanying the displayed objects, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the symbols, inscriptions and their history.

The Open Temple is a means of introducing the public to the history of Karnak, its kings and gods, and contributes to educating visitors about the ancient religious customs and royal rituals that were held in Karnak.

The Open Temple is also an educational destination for students of archaeology, history and art, who study the development of Egyptian architecture and inscriptions..

Display of statues of kings and gods of Egypt

The open temple houses a number of statues representing the kings and gods of Egypt, reflecting the importance of these statues in worship rituals and highlighting the religious and political role of the kings.

Statues such as the statue of Amun-Ra and the statue of Ramses II show how the ancient Egyptians viewed the kings as mediators between the people and the gods.

These statues illustrate the meanings of power and sovereignty, and give visitors a glimpse into the concept of authority and belief in ancient Egypt..

Archaeological context and rediscovery of heritage

The objects on display in the Open Temple are the result of recent archaeological excavations, where archaeologists have been able to rediscover and re-display important elements of ancient Egyptian heritage.

The Open Temple helps to highlight the ongoing efforts to preserve Egyptian heritage and showcase objects that were not displayed in the original Karnak temples, making it an important destination for those interested in Egyptian history and archaeology..

The importance of the open temple in preserving history

The open temple is an important element in the process of preserving Egyptian antiquities, as it displays the artifacts in a protected manner and under close scientific supervision.

The competent authorities work on restoring the displayed pieces regularly, ensuring that they remain in good condition, allowing future generations to see part of the ancient Egyptian heritage.

The open temple plays a prominent role in preserving Egypt’s cultural identity and introducing the depth of Egyptian civilization.

Interactive experience for visitors

The open temple allows visitors to get up close and personal with the monuments, where they can walk among the statues and inscriptions and learn about their details directly, providing a rich and exceptional experience that enhances their understanding of ancient Egyptian history.

Visitors can explore the inscriptions and hieroglyphic symbols and learn about the stories of gods and kings, enriching their experience and enhancing their knowledge of aspects of ancient Egyptian civilization..

Entrances and the Sacred Way in Karnak Temple

The Karnak Temple is one of the most prominent and complex ancient Egyptian temples in terms of design and history. Among the main elements that distinguish it are the entrances and the sacred road that connects the different temples, especially between the Karnak Temple and the Luxor Temple.

This road plays an important role in religious rituals and celebrations, and is considered a symbol of the sacred connection between the temples.

The sacred road between Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple

• Extension and path: The Sacred Way stretches between Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple for a distance of about three kilometers. This way was used during ceremonial processions, especially during the Opet Festival, when statues of the gods were transported in great processions from Karnak Temple to Luxor Temple.
• Road design: The sacred way is flanked on both sides by sphinxes with rams’ heads and lions’ bodies. Rams are sacred animals associated with the god Amun-Ra, and symbolize strength, fertility and growth.

Ram statues

• Symbolism: The ancient Egyptians believed that statues of rams had the power to protect both the temple and the king. The ram was considered a manifestation of the god Amun-Ra, and therefore its presence on both sides of the road enhanced the divine protection of the temple.
• statue design: The statues consist of a raised base, a lion’s body, and a ram’s head. Beneath the rams’ heads are small statues of the king, symbolizing the ram’s (the god Amun) protection of the king himself.
• History of statues: Although most of the statues bear the name of King Ramses II of the 19th Dynasty, there are statues from which the name of Ramses II has been erased and the name of King Panjem, son of Piankhi, one of the kings of the 21st Dynasty, has been placed, indicating that the statues were reused or modified in later eras.

The anchorage and the connection to the sacred path

• Ship dock: The dock is located in front of the Karnak Temple, and is the first thing a visitor encounters upon entering the temple. The dock was used to receive boats laden with offerings and goods coming from all over Egypt to the temple.
• The role of the marina in celebrations: The dock was the starting point for grand celebrations, especially in the New Kingdom. From there, processions carrying the sacred statue of the god Amun would start from Karnak Temple to Luxor Temple during the Opet Festival, and also during the Beautiful Valley Festival to visit the Western Cemetery.
• Holy boats: In front of the dock, the largest of the Amun boats, known as the “Userhat”, was moored. According to the inscriptions, these boats were huge and luxurious, reaching 80 meters in length, and made of cedar wood covered with gold.

Building monuments on the sacred road

• Building the first monument: After the construction of the first pylon during the reign of King Nectanebo I of the 30th Dynasty, the statues that were between the first and second pylons were rearranged. The statues were removed from their original location and placed on the sides, which can be seen when entering the first courtyard of the temple.
• all the way: The sacred road connecting the dock to the first pylon was about 70 metres long, with about 20 metres empty between the road and the pylon.

Details of the entrances in the temple wall

• The huge wall: The Karnak temples are surrounded by a huge mud-brick wall, built during the reign of King Nectanebo I. The wall is 12 metres thick, 550 metres long, 480 metres wide and 20 metres high.
• fence design: The wall is characterised by its wavy or arched design at the top, which is a metaphor for the eternal waters that surrounded the sacred hill according to ancient Egyptian belief.
• Entrances in the wall: The wall has eight entrances:
  • North entrance: The Temple of Amun-Ra is connected to the Temple of Montu, the god of war who was the chief god of Thebes before Amun-Ra.
  • Southern entrances: There are two entrances: the eastern one at the Tenth Pylon which leads to the Temple of Mut, the wife of Amun, and the western one at the Temple of Khonsu and the Gate of Ptolemy III which connects to other temples.
  • Eastern and Western Entrances: It includes three entrances in the west, including the main entrance in the first edifice, which is currently used for visitors’ entry.

The importance of the sacred path in religious rituals

• Opet Festival: The Sacred Way was used mainly during the Opet Festival, when statues of the gods were carried in ceremonial processions from Karnak to Luxor, to renew royal power and promote fertility and prosperity.
• Rituals and ceremonies: The royal and priestly procession would have followed this route, surrounded by statues of rams that enhanced the sanctity of the procession and showed the king’s association with the god Amun.

Architectural elements associated with entrances and the road

• The first monument: The main entrance to the temple is on the western side. It is the largest structure in Egypt. It was built during the reign of King Nectanebo I and was not completely completed.
• Openings and niches: The first edifice contains eight niches (four on each side) designated for placing flagpoles that raised the sacred banners. It is believed that the height of each flagpole reached 50 metres.
• Use of clay slopes: During the construction of the edifices, mud-brick ramps were used to lift the stones to the higher places. Some parts of these ramps still exist on the southern tower of the first edifice.

The social and religious role of the entrances

• access to the gods: The common people were not allowed to enter the temple, so there were wooden booths or canopies set up in front of the monuments, where a statue of the god was placed to listen to the people’s supplications. The priests would transmit the people’s requests to the god and return with answers, in exchange for offerings or taxes.
• religious symbolism: The entrances and pylons are not just architectural elements, but carry deep religious symbolism. The pylon represents the horizon from which the sun rises, and the two towers represent the goddesses Isis and Nephthys who raised the sun disk, linking kings and people, and the earthly and divine worlds.

Stone base in the eastern kiosk

The stone base of the eastern kiosk is an important archaeological fragment located in the eastern part of the kiosk. This base was designed to be a fixed point on which the sacred boat was placed, indicating the important role it played in religious rituals..

The base was used to hold the sacred boat, which was considered a symbol of divinity and expressed spiritual journeys in ancient beliefs..

The base represents the connection of man to the spiritual world through the rituals that were practiced around the boat, which shows the importance of water in ancient Egyptian civilization..

The base was built of stone, reflecting the ingenuity of the ancient Egyptians in using materials available in their local environment.Despite its simple design, it reflects the advanced construction techniques of the ancient Egyptians.

The base is located within the eastern kiosk, which is considered part of the Karnak Temple complex, adding historical value to the base.The base provides insight into the religious and spiritual practices of ancient Egypt, and is evidence of how the gods were associated with the sacred boat in Egyptian ritual.

 South Gate

The Poppet Gate is an important part of the architecture of the Temple of Amun at Karnak, and is one of the most prominent landmarks mentioned in the Bible. It is the southern entrance to the large open courtyard of the Temple of Amun, and this gate was designed to be part of the wall surrounding the courtyard.

• architectural symmetry: If there had not been a temple of Ramesses III built before this gate, the entrance or gate would have been directly opposite the northern gate of the courtyard. However, it seems that King Shoshenq, when he built the wall surrounding the courtyard, made the gate of Ramesses’ temple opposite the northern entrance in order to maintain architectural symmetry.
• Inscriptions of Shoshenq I: The inscriptions on this gate were made by Shoshenq I, and his original inscriptions are considered the oldest inscriptions ever found. This gate is the only part of the wall surrounding the courtyard that has been inscribed, which raises the question of why the inscriptions were not completed elsewhere.
• Reasons for not completing the inscriptions: According to the text at Gebel el-Silsila, construction work on the courtyard began in Year 21 of Shashanq’s reign, indicating that there was not enough time to complete the inscriptions elsewhere.
• Inscriptions and battles: The inscriptions on the gate refer to Sheshonq’s victories, including his victory over Rehoboam, king of Judah, which is also documented in the Bible.
• High Priests ParticipationIt is noted that the high priest, who is the son of Shoshenq I, is repeatedly represented in the same size as the king, reflecting his important role in these reliefs.
• Stages of inscriptions: The inscriptions cover a period of approximately 35 years of the 22nd Dynasty, and were added in stages, with Takelot II and Osorkon adding their own inscriptions in later stages.
• Quality of engravings: The reliefs of Shoshenq I are of high quality, while the later reliefs of Takelot II and Osorkon are of lower quality.

Details of the scenes and inscriptions on the Poppet Gate

• View No. 124: King Shoshenq I is shown seizing his enemies by the hair, in a traditional scene in which Egyptian kings represent their conquest of enemies, as he stands before the god Amun who gives him the curved sword of power.
• Prisoners and tribal leaders: The inscriptions also represent the names of the cities that submitted to Shashanq, with the names of the enemies emerging from circles to show their defeat.
• Inscription details: The inscriptions include 150 names representing 150 cities or communities, reflecting the extent of the victory achieved by the king.
• High Priest’s Participation: The son of King Shoshenq I, the High Priest Iupet, appears to be the same size as the king, and is believed to have supervised the construction and placement of the inscriptions.
• Inscriptions of Takelot II and Osorkon II: Later inscriptions speak of the relationship between the king and his son, with Osorkon II shown as a high priest trying to assert himself and diminish his father’s role.

memorial plaqueIn the Karnak Temple Complex

The Puppet Gate at Karnak Temple contains a Ptolemaic stela, known as the Stela of Ptolemy VIII Euergetes II. This stela is an important monument that records the history of the Ptolemaic period in Egypt..

The panel shows a distinctive artistic distribution in keeping with the architectural style of the Ptolemies. It contains scenes and symbols that indicate grandeur.

And the authority Add The panel contains inscriptions that mention the achievements of King Ptolemy VIII and document important events during his reign, helping to understand the historical and political context of that period..

The reign of Ptolemy VIII Euergetes II is considered an important period in Egyptian history, as the country witnessed major changes on the political and economic levels. The Ptolemies ruled Egypt as kings of Greek origin, which influenced culture and arts.

The painting was considered a means of enhancing the king’s legitimacy and documenting his achievements, as the arts and engravings were seen as a means of communicating with the people and asserting royal power..

Place of the painting: The stela is located below the statue of Ramesses II in the gateway, highlighting its status as part of the temple’s cultural and religious heritage.

Obelisks in Karnak Temple Complex: Historical and architectural details

Karnak Temple contains a group of historical obelisks that were erected by the kings of ancient Egypt. These obelisks are considered an important religious and political symbol, as they were dedicated to the god Amun-Ra and were erected in strategic locations within the temple. Here are details about the most prominent of these obelisks:

Two obelisks of King Thutmose III

• Height and location: After Thutmose III assumed power, he erected two obelisks in the Karnak area, and tried to emphasize his power and leadership by building two obelisks taller than Hatshepsut’s obelisks.
• Current Locations: The obelisk of Thutmose III was transported to Rome, and is now considered the tallest obelisk in the world with a height of 32.18 meters, while the second obelisk was transported to Istanbul during the reign of the Roman Emperor Theodosius I, and is now in Sultanahmet Square after being cut and transported in three stages, losing about 4 meters of its original length.

Obelisks and the kings competing in height

• Thutmose III made his obelisks taller than Hatshepsut’s as a sign of his royal and religious superiority. Obelisks were used to showcase royal achievements and power before the gods and the people, and were competitive in height, reflecting the kings’ interest in erecting religious and architectural symbols that expressed their ambition and power..

Transfer of Karnak Obelisks out of Egypt

• Several obelisks from Karnak were transported outside Egypt, with the obelisk of Thutmose III being taken to Rome and another to Istanbul. The transport of these obelisks led to the spread of Egyptian architecture and its influence on other civilizations, and obelisks became part of the landmarks of major cities around the world..

Religious symbolism and techniques used

• Obelisks symbolized the connection between gods and kings, and were considered an extension of the will of the gods on earth. Obelisks were made from a single block of granite, and were characterized by a meticulous polishing process and sometimes covered with gold to shine in the sun as a symbol of divine majesty..

The obelisks of Karnak Temple are architectural masterpieces that transcend time, embodying royal power and immortalizing themselves as some of the greatest creations of ancient Egypt in the field of sculpture and architecture..

Hatshepsut’s palaces

• Queen Hatshepsut built a group of shrines inside the Karnak Temple, and these shrines were dedicated to the worship of the Theban Triad: Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. The shrines were built as resting places for the sacred boats during religious rituals and ceremonial processions..
• After Hatshepsut’s death, Thutmose III ordered the removal of her images and titles from shrines as part of a process of erasing her from royal history. Thutmose III replaced statues of Hatshepsut with his own, and inscribed his name on many of the places that had been dedicated to Hatshepsut’s memory..
• Archaeologists have extracted the stone blocks that formed Hatshepsut’s Red Chapel and reassembled them for display in the open-air museum at Karnak Temple, giving visitors the opportunity to see these unique architectural features..

Basilica Hypostyle Hall To King Thutmose III in Karnak Temple Complex

Architectural design

• Layout and shape: The Basilic Hypostyle Hall of Karnak Temple is considered one of the unique architectural achievements of ancient Egypt, as it features a basilica design that combines tall columns with shorter columns, allowing for ventilation and natural lighting within the hall.
• Number of columns and distribution: The hall contains two rows of tall columns in the middle, each row consisting of 10 columns, and they are surrounded on the sides by shorter columns, with a total of 32 side columns, distributed in four rows.
• Column capitals: The column capitals take a unique tent-like shape, with the base tapering downwards and the top circular, unlike the traditional plant capitals in ancient Egyptian architecture, reflecting the engineer’s desire to represent the shape of the royal tent that was erected in wars, and reflecting the military spirit of Thutmose III.

The purpose of the basilica design

• Lighting and ventilation: Thanks to the use of columns of varying heights, the ceiling was designed with two different levels, allowing for ventilation and natural lighting inside the hall, making the hall comfortable for religious rituals during the day.
• Military symbolism: The architect wanted to express Thutmose III’s status as a warrior king through this design, which is inspired by the shape of the royal tent, making the hall a symbol of Thutmose III’s military and royal achievements. This hall is considered an example of the principle of basilica architecture, which later spread in ancient Egypt and beyond.

The role of the hall in worship and celebrations

• A site for holidays and processions: The hall was used as part of religious rituals and ceremonial processions, where the royal procession would pass through the hypostyle halls to reach the Holy of Holies. It was called the “Hall of Papyrus Columns” due to the sandstone columns decorated with engravings representing the papyrus plant, which was a symbol of fertility and abundance.
• Religious rituals: The hall hosted major ceremonies, such as the festivals of the god Amun and the festival of Opet. The walls were decorated with inscriptions describing these rituals, making it a pictorial record of ancient religious belief.

Architectural influence and emergence of basilica architecture in Egypt

• The Basilica Hypostyle Hall at Karnak is considered the first application of basilica architecture in the history of ancient Egypt, as the idea was later developed in larger hypostyle halls such as the Great Hypostyle Hall at Karnak, which includes 134 columns..
• Spread of architectural style: Later, the basilica idea spread and was used in the great temples of the Ramesside era, and this hall became an inspiring example for the kings to build similar halls that depended on the principle of lighting and ventilation through the varying heights of the columns.

Use of the hall in the Christian era

• After Egypt converted to Christianity, many Egyptian halls and temples were converted into churches, including the Basilica Hypostyle Hall at Karnak, where traces of Christian depictions of saints are still visible on some of the hall’s columns today, reflecting a religious and cultural transformation that the hall witnessed over time..

The Basilica Hypostyle Hall at Karnak Temple Complex is not just an architectural structure, but a landmark that bears witness to the architectural creativity of the ancient Egyptians, and a living example of the blending of architectural art with religious and political symbolism..

Botanical garden In the Karnak Temple Complex

• Establishment and purpose: The botanical garden at Karnak Temple Complex was founded by order of King Thutmose III after his return from his military campaigns in Syria. The purpose of the garden was to display the exotic plants and rare trees that the king had brought with him from the lands of the Levant, and this was considered a great achievement to add to his record of victories.
• Plant transfer: Thutmose III brought rare plants and flowers from the Levant and planted them in the temple garden. These plants succeeded in growing and adapting to the Egyptian environment, making the garden the first botanical garden in recorded history.
• Inscriptions and description: The inscriptions appear on the walls of the garden, displaying different types of plants such as rare trees and flowers brought by Thutmose III. The texts describe that each plant and flower was brought under the king’s orders to bring prosperity to the land of Egypt and to honor the god Amun.
• Accuracy in engravings: The engravings in the Botanical Garden are characterised by their high precision, as the plants are depicted in precise detail that reflects the quality and characteristics of each plant. They also show some of the animals that Thutmose III brought from Syria, proving that he was the founder of the first zoo in the history of Egypt.
• The importance of the garden for agricultural activity in Egypt: The text accompanying the inscriptions shows the king’s pride in his ability to bring and propagate plants that were previously unknown in Egypt. The garden is considered part of the king’s efforts to develop agriculture and bring new plants, which shows the ancient Egyptians’ interest in nature and different plants.

botanical garden symbolism

• Political and religious symbolism: The Botanical Garden was a symbol of the imperial expansion and economic prosperity that King Thutmose III brought to Egypt, and the garden became a witness to the greatness of the Egyptian Empire during his reign. The garden was dedicated to the god Amun as a form of honor and devotion, adding a religious dimension to it.
• The first recorded botanical garden in history: The Karnak Botanical Garden is considered the first recorded botanical garden in history, as it shows the extent of the ancient Egyptians’ interest in collecting rare plants and caring for them in designated places within the temples, which reflects the level of development in agricultural sciences and environmental vision.

Hall Columns in front of the sixth pylon

• Location inside the temple: The Annals Hall is located behind the Sixth Pylon, and is one of the most important halls in Karnak Temple Complex, as it occupies a special place due to the inscriptions and precise historical and military details it contains. The hall is known as the historical record that documents the events and conquests of King Thutmose III.
• Planning and design: The hall is distinguished by its massive walls engraved with hieroglyphic texts and images that illustrate the military campaigns of King Thutmose III. The hall was built using sandstone and its walls were covered with highly detailed engravings.

The first military diary in history

• Military documentation: The Annals is the oldest documented record of military campaigns in history. Thutmose III documented the details of his battles and victories in great detail, the most famous of which was the Battle of Megiddo. In this record, the king described his military plan and the organization of his army, and the importance of the element of surprise that he used to achieve victory.
• The importance of the hall as a historical document: The Annals Hall is an important source for understanding the military tactics and strategy that were followed in ancient Egypt, as it includes precise details about how the army moved, the preparations that preceded the battle, and the distribution of spoils after victory.

Details of the Battle of Megiddo

• Battle context: The Battle of Megiddo, which took place in the 23rd year of Thutmose III’s reign, is the most prominent event documented in the Annals Hall. The record states that the king held a council of war before the battle, and that he chose a narrow route to reach Megiddo and achieve the element of surprise, as he succeeded in besieging his enemies and exploiting brilliant military planning to defeat them.
• Military Tactics Details: The record describes how Thutmose III divided his army, and how he used complex strategies to achieve victory. This documentation is evidence of Thutmose III’s genius as a military leader and warrior king.

The importance of the hall in the royal doctrine

• Legitimacy of the rule: The Hall of Annals was a means for Thutmose III to assert his legitimacy as a warrior king capable of protecting and expanding Egypt. The reliefs in the hall bear witness to the royal power and greatness of Thutmose III, as they show the king receiving blessings from the gods and making offerings after his victories, reinforcing his sacred status and confirming the gods’ support for his rule.
• Celebrating the King’s Victories: The hall served as a pictorial museum of Thutmose III’s works and achievements. The reliefs show the king honoring the gods and presenting them with the spoils he had obtained from his campaigns. These rituals were intended to confirm the gods’ support for the king and their satisfaction with his victories.

Hieroglyphic details and inscriptions

• Detailed engravings: The walls of the hall contain inscriptions that recount 16 military campaigns carried out by Thutmose III, display the names of the cities and places he brought under his control, and details of the spoils he obtained. These inscriptions are a valuable geographical record of the known places of the ancient world, giving us an idea of ​​the ancient sites in the Levant, Syria and Palestine.
• Artistic style of engravings: The carvings in the Annals Hall are characterised by their high precision and detail, highlighting soldiers, weapons, horses and chariots. Some of the carvings also show scenes of the king with the gods, in scenes that include symbolic references expressing his greatness and superiority.

Impact on Military History

• Reference to military plans: The Annals Hall is an important reference in military history, as it established the principle of strategic planning and military deception that contributed to achieving victory in battles. Later, these principles influenced military sciences in other civilizations, as the details of the Battle of Megiddo are still studied in military academies to this day.
• Influence on later kings of Egypt: Thutmose III’s achievements inspired later kings to document their military campaigns, with each king seeking to leave a similar military legacy, which helped to foster the military culture of ancient Egypt and establish the idea of ​​the “warrior king” in Egyptian belief.

The Annals Hall continues as a heritage resource.

• A symbol of national pride: The Hall of Annals has continued to serve as a symbol of national pride and military victory. Used by the ancient Egyptians as a model of heroism and strength, it has become part of Egypt’s historical memory, telling stories of courage and clever planning to achieve glory.
• Documentation and translation in the modern era: Many of the inscriptions in the hall have been translated, allowing scholars to understand the details of military life in ancient Egypt. The hall is one of the most prominent landmarks that provide valuable information about Egyptian society, diplomatic relations, and the imperial status that Egypt reached during the reign of Thutmose III.

Middle Kingdom Courtyard

The Middle Kingdom Courtyard is the first core of the Temple of Amun-Re, dating back to the 12th Dynasty during the Middle Kingdom. In this court, the kings of ancient Egypt began building the oldest sections of the temple, and this court formed the center of a group of expansions that were later carried out in the Karnak Temple Complex over the different eras.

The Middle Kingdom Courtyard represents the foundation on which the rest of the Temple of Amun-Re was built, and reflects the spirit of the era in which it was founded and the depth of the Egyptian religious traditions that were centered around the worship of the god Amun..

Middle Kingdom Courtyard Design

The architecture of the Middle Kingdom courtyard is characterized by its simplicity of design compared to the sections added later in the advanced eras, but this does not diminish its importance or the magnificence of its design.

The courtyard was surrounded by huge columns and elaborate decorations that were used in rituals of worship and offerings to the god Amun. The courtyard was open to the sky, allowing sunlight to enter, which is considered a symbol of life and purity in the Egyptian faith, which enhances the sanctity of the place.

Religious use of the courtyard

In the courtyard, priests would offer sacrifices to the god Amun and perform the rituals of Egyptian worship. It is believed that the courtyard was also used for some religious ceremonies and events that honored the god Amun and highlighted his role as the main god of the kingdom. The courtyard was a major place for religious gatherings and offerings, making it one of the most sacred places within the temple.

Inscriptions and decorations in the courtyard of the Middle Kingdom

The Middle Kingdom courtyard contains reliefs and decorations commemorating the achievements of the kings who built and expanded it, especially King Senusret I, who is believed to have been one of the first to start building this courtyard.

The reliefs depict various scenes of kings making offerings to the gods, reflecting the great reverence for the god Amun and the close relationship of the kings with the gods. These reliefs carried religious and political messages to enhance the power of the kings and demonstrate their role as mediators between the people and the gods..

Middle Kingdom Courtyard as a Starting Point for Expansion

The Middle Kingdom courtyard played a pivotal role in the expansion of the temple, with later kings using it as a starting point for the construction of new buildings and sections around it. Over time, this area became surrounded by other pylons, columns and courtyards that reflect the development of Egyptian architecture.

The courtyard is the main focus of the temple of Amun-Re, and represents the expansion that the kings achieved throughout the ages, demonstrating the continued status of Amun as a major deity in Egypt..

The importance of the Middle Kingdom courtyard in archaeological studies

The Middle Kingdom courtyard is of great importance to archaeologists and historians, as it is the starting point for understanding the development of the Temple of Amun at Karnak Temple Complex. This courtyard is the key through which architectural and artistic transformations can be traced in the temple, as it is considered a witness to the beginning of Karnak’s expansions. This courtyard also helps researchers understand the religious and social role that the temple played in the lives of the ancient Egyptians, especially during the Middle Kingdom period, which witnessed political stability and a religious renaissance..

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