Egypt Attractions

Venue: Temple of Horus    When: Daily

This temple was the main centre for the cult of Horus, son of Osiris, in ancient Egypt.

It was constructed between 237 and 57 BC. The temple is said to have been built on the site of the pre-historic battle between Horus and the dark god Seth, who murdered Osiris, father of Horus. The current temple, which today is both the best preserved and virtually the largest temple in Egypt, second only to Karnak, is thought to be the last in a long series of temples, the first of which according to legend was a grass hut containing the statue believed to be the physical manifestation of the god.

The most impressive statue of Horus you'll find in the temple these days is the ten-foot 'colossus' of Horus near the entrance. The 'living statue' of Horus used to be kept in the temple's inner sanctuary, constantly cared for like a living being by its priests, who anointed it, dressed and robed it and prayed to it, receiving offerings and food on its behalf and looking after it in all possible ways. Not only that, but the statue was even entitled to its conjugal rights!