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What Is Kom Ombo Temple and Where Is It Located?
The Kom Ombo Temple is located about 45 km north of Aswan in the village of Kom Ombo in Egypt right on the east side of the Nile River. And as it sits on a small rise, that gives it amazing views of the river. 
The area once had sacred crocodiles sunbathing nearby which adds to the temple's legend and connection to Sobek. 

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What Is the Meaning and Origin of the Name “Kom Ombo”?
The name Kom Ombo comes from two languages. "Kom" is Arabic for hill and "Ombo" comes from the ancient word for gold. So together the name means Hill of Gold and this reflects the site’s historical importance and maybe even hints at the prosperity of Kom Ombo Aswan in ancient times.
In Pharaonic Egypt the area was called "Npty" then changed to "Enbo" in Coptic and finally it became Kom Ombo. Even if the area boomed mainly in the Greco-Roman period; it still carries this golden meaning.

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What Is the History of Kom Ombo Temple?
The land around Kom Ombo temple Egypt was lived on as early as the pre-dynastic period but the temple we see today began construction under Ptolemy V around 205 BC and later rulers continued to expand it.
This temple played both religious and political roles; during Roman rule Kom Ombo was a major administrative center and army post. And over time, Nile floods and earthquakes damaged parts of it but Jacques Morgan led restoration work in the late 1800s.

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Why Was Kom Ombo Temple Built?
Kom Ombo Aswan Temple was built by the Ptolemies during the Greco-Roman era to honor two major gods. One part of the temple is for Sobek the crocodile god of fertility and protection… and the other is for Horus the Elder, a falcon god linked with royalty and healing.
This dual design showed the Ptolemies’ respect for Egyptian traditions while also serving as a political statement about their rule. So the Temple of Kom Ombo was not only about religion but also it was a symbol of power and unity.

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What Makes Kom Ombo Temple’s Design Unique?
The Temple of Kom Ombo Egypt has a mirrored layout which is super rare; and that means everything is doubled: two entrances, two halls, two sanctuaries and two sets of rooms. Each side was for one of the two gods.
This allowed priests to carry out separate rituals for Sobek and Horus at the same time. Here’s to mention that it is the only temple in Egypt designed this way which make it an architectural standout. The structure is also full of detailed reliefs and symbolic scenes along with sacred carvings.

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How Was Kom Ombo Temple Constructed? What Are Its Main Features?
The temple was built mostly from limestone in a traditional rectangular plan. And some of its main highlights include:

  • Hypostyle Hall: the main hall visitors see today as the entrance pylon is no longer standing
  • Twin Sanctuaries: one for Sobek and one for Horus… both fully symmetrical
  • Chapel of Hathor: it is located in the northeastern corner and accessed by stairs
  • Nilometer: a circular well used to measure the annual Nile floods
  • Crocodile Museum: on site, this museum displays mummified crocodiles found in the area

The wall carvings also show scenes of Ptolemaic kings worshipping the gods and include fascinating medical carvings and tools.

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What Is the Story of the Crocodiles at Kom Ombo?
One of the most famous parts of Sobek temple Egypt is its connection to crocodiles. Legend says the enemies of Horus (the ones who were known as the followers of Seth) escaped by transforming into crocodiles.
Back in the day, the Nile around Kom Ombo was full of these animals. Locals were both afraid of and devoted to Sobek so they built shrines and even kept live crocodiles in sacred ponds. Some were mummified and are now on display at the Crocodile Museum where Sobek Temple exists.

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What Can You See Inside Kom Ombo Temple?
When you visit Kom Ombo temple expect to see:

  • Beautiful symmetrical halls for dual worship
  • Richly decorated reliefs of Ptolemaic pharaohs
  • The Chapel of Sobek and Chapel of Hathor
  • Sacred carvings of medical tools and birth scenes
  • The Nilometer and remains of the Sacred Lake
  • The Crocodile Museum that features preserved crocodile mummies and related items

Everything in the temple reflects the balance between the two gods and the strong symbolism of life and power along with the Nile.

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Thinking of Visiting Kom Ombo Temple?
Temple of Kom Ombo has something for every fan of mythology and architecture or anyone who loves to explore unique places around the world. Whether it is the story of Temple of Sobek or the detailed artwork and the unusual double design… this place will leave you amazed.
Make your way to Step To Egypt and plan your visit to the Kom Ombo temple as part of your Aswan tour and trust me, this stop is worth every step.

Temple of Kom Ombo Egypt is a rare and fascinating site that stands out from all other temples along the Nile. It is located north of Aswan on the east side of the Nile River and it is best known for its double design and its dedication to two gods: Sobek, the crocodile god and Horus the Elder. The temple is set along the riverbank with scenic views and it is a historical and spiritual treasure at the same time.
This guide will walk you through all the must-know info about the temple its history and architecture to what you will see inside.