Temple of Philae

The Temple of Philae is located on an island in the Nile River, south of Aswan, Egypt. It is dedicated to Isis, the goddess of love. Worship of Isis on Philae dates back to at least the 7th century BC. The oldest remains on the island come from the reign of Nectanebo I (380–362 BC).

The most important ruins were begun by Ptolemy II Philadelphus. They were expanded over the next 500 years, continuing until the reign of Diocletian (284–305 AD).

Why the Temple Was Built

The Temple of Philae was built to worship the goddess Isis.

Fascinating Facts about the Temple

Philae’s aura of romance and grandeur attracted pilgrims for millennia. In the 19th century, the ruins became one of Egypt's most famous tourist attractions. After the old dam was built, Philae was flooded for six months each year at high tide. Visitors could row boats between partially submerged columns and see the sunken shrines beneath translucent green water.

When the High Dam was completed, the temple would have disappeared completely. UNESCO intervened to save it. Between 1972 and 1980, the complex was dismantled stone by stone and rebuilt 20 meters higher on the nearby island of Agilkia. The island’s landscape was reshaped to resemble the sacred island of Isis.

Historical Significance

During the Ptolemaic dynasty, the temple was the center of worship for Isis. It remained one of the last places where Egypt’s ancient religion was practiced. Christianity spread in Egypt, and the temple officially closed in 550 AD. Early Christians later converted the temple into a church. This caused some of the images of ancient gods to be damaged, as Christians often removed pagan symbols.

Visiting the Temple Today

The Temple of Isis is the main attraction on the island. However, other smaller temples are also worth visiting. Like other major ancient sites in Egypt, Philae hosts a light and sound show. It is often considered the best among such events. The illuminated ruins at night create a magical atmosphere, making it a highly recommended way to spend an evening.