Philae Temple

June 1

Philae Temple, the last to be abandoned after the advent of monotheism, was the main temple for worshiping the goddess, Isis. It was built on the island of Philae, considered to be the site of creation mythology.

With construction of the High Dam, the temple was painstakingly moved to the island of Agilkia. This international effort was undertaken to save the temple from becoming submerged.

There are large stone walls built up around the island to hold back the water.

Isis is, arguably, one of the most famous of Egyptian Gods, representing nurturing and motherhood. She was often portrayed as a cow, a symbol of nurturance. Her son, Horus' eye is a powerful symbol of protection.

In these photos you can see the large stone retaining walls, some lovely flowers, our group and views of Philae Temple.

The Lotus blossom, a symbol of fertility, can be seen at the tops of the columns. Some are joined with columns topped with Papyrus, symbol of strength. According to the woman I talked with in the Papyrus store, when these two symbols are joined together this way they symbolise the unification of the two Egypt's, upper (to the south) and lower (to the north).
Also note the Cobra's. (does anyone remember what they symbolize???, please let me know if you do!...thnx!)

Thank you to Karen for contributing some of her photos to my blog! You can tell which came from Karen as she has them stamped with the date, good idea!