Temple of Philae
The Temple of Philae is a superb temple complex dedicated to the goddess Isis.
Area
Aswan
Type
Art & Architecture
History
Grade
Standard
Who
Adults
Difficulty
Moderate
Duration
1-2 Hours
The monuments of Philae include many structures dating predominantly to the Ptolemaic Period (332–30 BC). The most prominent of these is a temple begun by Ptolemy II Philadelphus (285–246 BC), which he dedicated to Isis, the mother of Horus, the god of kingship. A scene in the mammisi, or birth room, where the birth of Horus was celebrated, depicts Isis suckling her son Horus in the marshes All these monuments were relocated from the original Philae Island to the nearby island of Agilkia during the UNESCO Nubia Campaign in the 1960’s to rescue sites flooded by the construction of the Aswan High Dam
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationOld Cataract Aswan
The Old Cataract Aswan is an opulent 19th century palace transformed into a luxury hotel. It occupies a prime location on the River Nile, and has a selection of restaurants and swimming pools which make it a haven for both families and couples.
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View AccommodationSofitel Winter Palace
The Sofitel Winter Palace is steeped in Egyptian history. Built in 1886, it has hosted world leaders throughout the years as well as notable figures such as Agatha Christie, and the 5th Earl of Carnavon whilst excavating Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922.
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View AccommodationMarriott Mena House
The Mena House is a large and palatial hotel, situated in the shadow of the great Pyramids of Giza on the outskirts of Cairo. Its own rich and colourful history is reflected in its ornate interiors and it, without doubt, boasts the best view in Cairo.
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View AccommodationThe Oberoi Zahra
The Oberoi Zahra is the finest and most luxurious ship operating on the Nile. This leisurely cruise gives the perfect balance between sightseeing and relaxation – with on board spa treatments that pamper you like a Pharaoh.
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View AccommodationSanctuary Sun Boat IV
Sanctuary Sun Boat IV has just 40 cabins and suites in total, with a chic art deco style. Offering three-, four- and 10-night itineraries, the boat sails between Luxor and Aswan offering guests the chance to explore the legendary sites along the Nile.
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View AccommodationThe Oberoi Philae
The Oberoi Philae offers a luxurious cruise along the Nile that sails past the landmarks of an ancient civilisation. The elegant cruiser sails from Aswan to Luxor or vice versa and courses through Pharaonic dynasties that span thousands of years.
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View AccommodationThe Nile Ritz-Carlton Cairo
On the banks of the River Nile, The Nile Ritz-Carlton is a luxurious sanctuary in the heart of downtown Cairo. Guests can enjoy lavish spa treatments, attentive service and fine dining with panoramic city views.
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View AccommodationMovenpick Aswan
The Movenpick Resort Aswan is located on Elephantine Island in the middle of the Nile with excellent views of the river. It is well-situated for sightseeing but also perfect for relaxing by the pool. Arriving at the hotel by ferry adds to the adventure.
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View AccommodationFour Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh
The Four Seasons Resort, Sharm El Sheikh is a luxury hotel situated on Egypt's Sinai Peninsula. With a huge range of facilities including a dive centre and superb spa, The Four Seasons is perfect for both a romantic getaway or a luxury family holiday.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperienceUnfinished Obelisk
Take in the impressively gigantic Unfinished Obelisk.
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View ExperienceAswan Dam
Understand the history of the famous Aswan Dam.
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View ExperienceTemple of Horus & Kom Ombo
As you make your way between Luxor and Aswan, make a visit to Temple of Horus in Edfu as well as Kom Ombo, where you will find a huge temple dedicated to the God Sobek and Harocies.
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View ExperienceSail Aswan by Felucca
Sail the Nile by felucca passing through sights such as Agha Khan Mausoleum, Kitchener's Island and ending at Elephantine Island.
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View ExperienceNubian Museum
The indigenous people of Upper (southern) Egypt and the north of Sudan are known as Nubians, and the Nubian Museum shows off the culture, history and art from ancient times until the present day. The building housing the museum is of local architecture.
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View ExperienceSail to Aswan Botanical Garden
For those with longer time, extend your felucca sail and drop off at the Botanical Garden for a stroll.