Philae temple complex Travel Guide: Top Sights in Egypt, Tours &

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Philae temple complex- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Historical & Cultural; Egypt; 8 Reviews

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Suggested Duration: 2 hours

The Philae Temple complex, located on Agilkia Island in Egypt’s Aswan Reservoir, was originally built on Philae Island near the First Cataract of the Nile. The site consists of several temples, the most notable being the Temple of Isis, which dates back to the reign of Nectanebo I in the 4th century BC. The temple complex was relocated in the 1970s due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam, which threatened to flood the original site. The relocation was a significant archaeological effort, with structures carefully dismantled and rebuilt on Agilkia Island. The temples are known for their detailed hieroglyphic reliefs and architectural grandeur, showcasing a mix of ancient Egyptian and Greco-Roman influences. The site remains a major historical and cultural landmark in Egypt.

Operators offering tours in Egypt

Attractions in Aswan

Abu Simbel

4.8

Aswan Dam

Elephantine

3.4

Nubian Museum

4.6

Kalabsha Temple

4.8

Tombs of the Nobles in Aswan

4.4

Qubbet el-Hawa

4.4

Unfinished Obelisk

4.4

Reviews of Philae

LordPuppy RD

5
Reviewed: 2025-01-23

Stunning location, lots of cute cats and a large temple with lots of areas to explore inside and out. You need to take a small boat to get there and the ride is very nice as you get to see the areas surrounding the island/temple as well.
Rithvik Jaya

4
Reviewed: 2025-01-03

The view of the temple was absolutely amazing and the temple is gorgeous. You still need to get a boat to the temple but trust me if you love history you will absolutely love it. The only problem is that some areas were dirty but the main complex is very neat.
SY “Ha” CC

5
Reviewed: 2024-12-02

The original temple was moved from the nearby land, which was sinking due to the construction of a dam. It was divided into different parts and carried to an island.
Don’t “Picky eater” Bother me !

5
Reviewed: 2024-10-21

What a fantastic bit of history this place is. The level of detail in and around the temple is magnificent. I was very impressed. The whole boat trip to the island was fantastic as you sail up the river and the temple comes into view, it’s a very impressive sight. There’s shops to to get drinks and gifts and snacks
Matt Wilson

5
Reviewed: 2024-10-09

Great little boat ride to get there (not too far). Temple is amazing. Small cafe on island if needed and toilet
Erik Oppenneer

5
Reviewed: 2023-10-31

The Temple of Philae is on an island in the reservoir of the Aswan Dam. It was built in 690 BC to honor Isis, the Egyptian goddess of healing and magic. It was one of the last places of worship built in the classical Egyptian style.
Aleksandra S

5
Reviewed: 2023-10-05

The temple surrounded by water. What a tranquil and serene place. Loved the atmosphere there and the souvenirs you could buy were of better quality. Highly recommended.
Alastair Woolley

5
Reviewed: 2023-07-26

Yet another spectacular temple in Egypt. This one is on an island in the lake between the old and new dams. As with other temples in this area, this one would have been lost under the waters when the dam was created but was dismantled into thousands of pieces and moved to an island above the water level. Get a small boat there in about 5 mins for a pleasant stroll through ancient history.