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What Is Kalabsha Temple?
The temple of Kalabsha is one of the largest free-standing temples in Nubia that was originally constructed during the Roman period around 30 BC under Emperor Augustus. And it was dedicated to Mandulis the Nubian sun god but also honored deities like Horus, Isis, Min as well as Khnum. Kalabsha Temple Egypt is built from sandstone and it features a massive pylon entrance along with a spacious courtyard with an 8-column hypostyle hall and 3 sanctuaries.
What makes this site unique is its rich mix of influences as you will find reliefs showing Roman emperors dressed as pharaohs alongside scenes of Egyptian gods offering a great look into the cultural blending that has happened here over time.

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Where Is Kalabsha Located?
Kalabsha Temple Aswan Egypt lies on the banks of Lake Nasser close to the Aswan High Dam; it was originally standing about 56 km south of Aswan but today it rests on higher ground to protect it from flooding. The Kalabsha location makes it a great starting point for a Lake Nasser visit and amazing day trips to other nearby Nubian monuments.

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How to Visit Kalabsha Temple?
Wondering how to get to Kalabsha Temple? let us tell you! the easiest way is by booking a guided trip from Aswan as most visitors reach it by boat from the Aswan High Dam while enjoying scenic views across Lake Nasser. A perfect Kalabsha Temple tour will include transportation, a knowledgeable guide and time to explore the surrounding monuments.

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What Is the History of Kalabsha Temple?
The Kalabsha Temple history stretches back thousands of years ago! The current structure began under Emperor Augustus and saw contributions from later rulers like Caligula and Trajan… However, the site itself was sacred long before the Romans with earlier temples from the reign of Amenhotep II and possibly Thutmose III.
The temple’s inscriptions are a treasure of information starting from a Roman decree banning pigs in the temple in 250 AD to a Christian-era carving by King Silko describing his victory over the Blemmyes. There is even a rare Meroitic text from King Kharamadoye that makes Kalabsha feels like an open air history book!

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What Are the Architectural Features of Kalabsha Temple?
The outstanding temple Kalabsha showcases classic Ptolemaic-Roman design of:

  • Massive pylon entrance leading into a trapezoidal courtyard
  • Eight-column hypostyle hall with stunning reliefs
  • Three sanctuaries dedicated to Mandulis and other deities
  • Staircases to the roof for panoramic views of Lake Nasser and the dam
  • Beautifully preserved carvings and inscriptions on nearly every wall

The combination of Egyptian layout with Roman artistic details makes the temple a unique spot.

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What Is the Significance of the Temple’s Relocation?
In the 1960s, the building of the Aswan High Dam threatened to submerge Kalabsha under Lake Nasser; and thanks to an international UNESCO campaign the temple was cut into over 13,000 blocks and moved to its current safe location over two years. This rescue mission (much like the relocation of Abu Simbel) is considered one of the greatest feats in archaeological preservation. In 1971, as a gesture of thanks; Egypt gave one of the gateways from Kalabsha Temple to Berlin’s Egyptian Museum and it has been there since 1977 with future plans for it to serve as the entrance to the new wing of the Pergamon Museum.

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What Deities and Rituals Were Associated with Kalabsha Temple?
The temple was mainly dedicated to Mandulis who is shown wearing a solar crown, but it also depicts rituals for Horus, Isis, Min, Khnum & Thoth. Over time it adapted to changing beliefs and even containing Christian carvings from later periods… and this spiritual diversity shows how the site remained important through different cultures and religions.

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What Notable Inscriptions and Historical Records Exist at Kalabsha?
Inside the tepmle you can find fascinating inscriptions including:

  • Aurelius Besarion Decree (250 AD) banning pigs in the temple
  • King Silko Inscription celebrating victory over the Blemmyes and showing the king as a Roman soldier
  • King Kharamadoye’s Meroitic text which is one of the longest examples of this script ever found
  • Scenes of Amenhotep II making offerings to Min and Mandulis

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What Else Can You See at Kalabsha Temple?
A Kalabsha Temple tour is not only about the main sanctuary but you can also explore:

  • The open courtyard and towering Ptolemaic columns
  • Detailed hypostyle halls and screen walls with ritual scenes
  • Nearby relocated sites like Beit el-Wali and the Kiosk of Qertassi
  • Together they create a complete picture of life, religion and art in ancient Nubia.

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Why Should You Visit Kalabsha Temple?
Visiting Kalabsha Temple Aswan is like wandering inside chapter of history because you will see a mix of Egyptian, Nubian and Roman cultures in one place and you will also enjoy a peaceful lakeside location away from the crowds. 
Plan your next trip now and book a tour with Step To Egypt and experience one of Egypt’s most remarkable spots for yourself.

Kalabsha Temple is found on the far southern end of Lake Nasser near Aswan High Dam and about 50 kilometers south of Aswan city. And this incredible site brings together Egyptian & Greco-Roman styles and stands as a symbol of ancient Nubian culture; it is also considered a successful preservation of world heritage. Temple of Kalabsha is one of the wonders of southern Egypt that you should NOT miss if you want to see something really unforgettable.