The Temple of Kom Ombo is an unusual ancient Egyptian masterpiece for its dual-design nature. The courtyards, halls, sanctuaries, and rooms are duplicated for two sets of gods. The Temple stands on the east bank of the Nile, about 60 kilometers (37 miles) north of Aswan, and was built during the Ptolemaic period, from 237 BC to 57 BC.
The southern half was dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek, the god of fertility and creator of the world. The northern part was dedicated to the falcon god Haroeris (Horus the Elder). The temple is atypical because everything is perfectly symmetrical along the central axis.
The History of Kom Ombo Temple
Originally constructed during the Ptolemaic period, the temple's main structure was built by Ptolemy VI and decorated extensively by Ptolemy XII. New evidence of reused blocks suggests an earlier Middle Kingdom presence.
The history of Kom Ombo Temple is uniquely reflected in its twin dedication and symmetrical plan. Kom Ombo is the only temple in Egypt dedicated to two gods. It features twin entrances, two linked hypostyle, two halls, and two sanctuaries adorned with both Sobek and Haroeris carvings on either side. It is assumed there were also two priesthoods, symbolizing the balance of divine worship.
The architecture of Kom Ombo Temple
The Components of Kom Ombo Temple reflect its architectural brilliance, artistic elegance, and religious importance. Key features include:
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Pylons: Two grand gateways, 18m high and 40m wide, with reliefs of Ptolemy VIII offering to Sobek and Horus.
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Courtyards: Open spaces, 31m long and 25m wide, surrounded by colonnades. Horus statues and offering altars enhance their significance.
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Hypostyle Halls: Featuring 10 columns supporting decorated roofs with Ptolemy VIII depicted offering to the gods.
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Vestibules: Smaller halls with four columns and detailed reliefs of Ptolemy VIII offering to Harsomtus and Panebtawy.
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Sanctuaries: Holiest chambers housing granite shrines dating to Nectanebo II, with niches for cult statues of Sobek and Horus.
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Chambers: Rooms for sacred objects and rituals, with some leading to the temple roof.
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Mammisi: A small temple built by Ptolemy VIII and Cleopatra II, dedicated to Harsomtus's divine birth and coronation scenes.
How can I visit the Kom Ombo Temple in Aswan?
The Kom Ombo Temple can be reached by various means of transportation, such as:
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By car: You can drive to Kom Ombo from Aswan or Luxor, about 60 kilometers (37 miles) and 100 kilometers (62 miles) away, respectively. The temple is located on the east bank of the Nile, near the town of Kom Ombo. You can park your car near the temple and walk to the entrance.
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By train: You can take a train to Kom Ombo Railway Station, located on the west bank of the Nile, opposite the temple. The station receives trains from Aswan, Luxor, and other Egyptian cities. You can take a ferry or a motorboat from the station to the east bank of the Nile, where the temple is located.
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By bus: You can take a bus to Kom Ombo Bus Station, which is located near the railway station. The station receives buses from Aswan, Luxor, and other Egyptian cities. You can take a ferry or a motorboat from the station to the east bank of the Nile, where the temple is located.
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By boat: You can take a boat to Kom Ombo Port, located on the east bank of the Nile, near the temple. The port receives cruise ships and ferries from Aswan and Luxor that sail along the Nile. You can walk or take a carriage from the port to the temple entrance.
The Kom Ombo Temple is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
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