The Karnak-Temple

The temple of Karnak is actually a temple city. Today, as well as in ancient times Karnak is the largest and most important temple complex in Egypt.

Building of the complex began during the early part of the Middle Kingdom. In the following 2.000 years the complex was under constant construction. The history of Thebes is closely associated with this complex.
In the center of Karnak is the great temple of Amun with it's six pylons make up the most important part of the temple complex. The pylons begin in the so-called great court and lead to the great hall of columns. Covering an area of 5.000 sq. meters, with 134 ca. 24 meter high, carved and painted stylized papyrus columns, this enormous sacred complex was in ancient times considered a wonder.
Passing the six pylons you reach the holy alter, where the statues of gods were kept. Other temples composed the East gate, which made up the end of the complex. Before this gate stood the ca. 30 meter high Lateran obelisk, which is now in Rome.

Karnak is about 3km North of Luxor. It can be comfortably reached by horse and carriage.

Expect to spend about 4hrs to see all of Karnak.
back