Karnak Temple Tour: A Journey Through History

Step into the ancient world of pharaohs and gods as you explore the breathtaking Karnak Temple, a testament to Egypt’s grandeur and spiritual devotion.

The Temple of Karnak is a vast temple complex on the east bank of the Nile near modern-day Luxor in Upper Egypt, with structures dating back 4,000 years. It is considered the largest religious complex ever built and attracts tens of thousands of tourists annually. Due to its popularity, it is featured in many of our Egypt tour packages and Nile River cruises.

Karnak Temple Tour

Stroll among the majestic sphinxes of Karnak Temple – where history and beauty unite.

The temple complex is conveniently located near to the modern day town of El-Karnak, just 2.5 km from Luxor. The site is massive, to the point where some people feel it’s necessary to spend at least one full day exploring the area. It’s also good idea to have a guide with you when you visit.

7 Fascinating Karnak Temple Facts

  1. Ancient Beginnings: The Karnak Temple complex’s origins trace back to the Middle Kingdom (2050-1710 BC), making it one of the oldest religious sites in Egypt. Pharaoh Senusret I began constructing parts of the temple that still stand today.
  2. Avenue of Guardians: Imagine walking down the Avenue of Sphinxes, a grand pathway lined with majestic sphinx statues. This avenue once stretched for about 2.7 kilometers, linking Karnak Temple to Luxor Temple, showcasing the ancient Egyptians’ architectural prowess.
  3. Sky-High Obelisks: Karnak is renowned for its towering obelisks, particularly the one obelisk erected by Queen Hatshepsut. Standing at nearly 30 meters (97 feet) and weighing around 323 tons, these obelisks are adorned with detailed hieroglyphs celebrating the gods and the achievements of pharaohs.
  4. Colossal Columns: The Great Hypostyle Hall in Karnak is a breathtaking forest of 134 colossal columns arranged in 16 rows. The tallest columns, reaching 24 meters (79 feet), are covered with intricate hieroglyphs and reliefs, creating an awe-inspiring sight.
  5. Ritual Cleansing: The Sacred Lake within Karnak Temple was essential for ritual purification. This large, rectangular lake, measuring 120 by 77 meters, was used by priests for daily ceremonies and was a critical element of the temple’s spiritual life.
  6. Festive Processions: Karnak Temple was the heart of the annual Festival of Opet, where the statue of the god Amun was paraded from Karnak to Luxor Temple. This grand celebration symbolized the rejuvenation of the pharaoh and the fertility of the land.
  7. Architectural Marvels: Karnak is not just a single temple but a sprawling complex of chapels, pylons, and other structures. Covering over 200 acres, it is the second largest ancient religious site in the world and serves as a testament to the architectural and artistic achievements of ancient Egypt.

A Brief History Of Karnak Temple City

Karnak temple in Luxor at sunrise, Egypt

Witness the sunrise at Karnak Temple – where ancient grandeur meets morning light.

While the oldest structures date back to around 4,000 years ago, most are considerably younger, keeping in mind that the city of temples formed over a period of 2,000 years. Originally, it was actually also part of Thebes, the ancient Egyptian capital. Today, it is also a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited Luxor tourist attractions.

Despite the fact that it is a rather derelict site, its sheer size, its many gigantic stone columns, and unbelievable number of structures make it one of the most visited attractions in the country. All in all, the complex covers an area of roughly 200 acres of land, of which 61 acres are occupied by the sacred enclosure of Amun. Put another way, one could fit approximately 10 average sized cathedrals into the enclosure of Amun.

Karnak Temple – Home Of Amun

Ancient ruins of Karnak temple in Egypt

Explore the ancient grandeur of Karnak Temple – where statues of the past tell timeless tales.

To a great extent, one could say that the temple city of Karnak was the official home of the god Amun, one of the principal deities of the Theban Triad. It was only after the 12th dynasty however that Amun rose up to become the God of all gods. To better understand how this occurred, one needs to keep in mind that back in those ancient times, when battles were fought, they were essentially battles between the various gods.

When two opposing forces clashed, the god of the victorious army became evermore powerful. King Thutmose III won many battles under the watchful eye of Amun, and this is essentially how Amun eventually went on to become the supreme god. Unlike many other Egyptian gods, not much is actually known about Amun other that he was often referred to as “Vizier Of The Poor”.

Who was Amun?

Amun was one of the most important deities in ancient Egyptian mythology. He was originally worshipped as the king of the gods in Thebes, but his cult spread throughout Egypt and beyond. Amun was often depicted as a man with a tall, plumed headdress, holding a sceptre and an ankh, symbols of power and life. He was also associated with the ram, and was sometimes depicted with ram’s horns.

Amun was considered a creator god, and was associated with fertility, the sun, and the air. He was often depicted as a powerful warrior, and was believed to protect the pharaoh in battle. Amun was also associated with wisdom and knowledge, and was often worshipped by scribes, who believed that he had given them their writing skills. In later periods, Amun was often identified with the Greek god Zeus, and was worshipped by Greeks and Romans alike.

carvings of Karnak Temple

Ancient Egyptian God Amun Heiroglyphic carving on an inner wall at the temple of Karnak.

The Ancient Pharoahs that Contibuted Most to the Creation of Karnak

Over the centuries, several pharaohs contributed to the construction and expansion of the Karnak temple complex, making it a remarkable masterpiece of ancient Egyptian architecture. So, which Egyptian rulers contributed the most towards building the largest temple complex ever built?

Pharaoh Amenhotep III

Amenhotep III was the ninth pharaoh of the 18th dynasty of Egypt. He ruled from 1391 to 1353 BC. Amenhotep III was a prolific builder and expanded the Karnak temple complex, adding several pylons, obelisks, and statues. He built two massive statues of himself, known as the Colossi of Memnon, which still stand near the entrance of the temple complex.

Queen Hatshepsut

Hatshepsut was the fifth pharaoh of the 18th dynasty of Egypt and one of the most successful female rulers in ancient history. She ruled from 1479 to 1458 BC. Hatshepsut commissioned the construction of several monuments at Karnak, including the red chapel, which was dedicated to the god Amun. She also added a series of obelisks and the second pylon.

Pharaoh Thutmose III

Thutmose III was the sixth pharaoh of the 18th dynasty of Egypt and one of the most successful military leaders in ancient history. He ruled from 1479 to 1425 BC. Thutmose III continued the expansion of the Karnak temple complex and added several structures, including the fourth pylon and the Festival Temple of Amun.

He also built a series of statues representing himself and various gods, including the Gayer-Anderson statue, which is now housed in the British Museum. Thutmose III’s contributions to the largest Egyptian temple complex made it one of the most impressive in all of ancient Egypt.

Pharaoh Seti I

Seti I was an ancient Egyptian pharaoh who ruled during the 19th Dynasty of the New Kingdom period, from around 1294 to 1279 BCE. He was the son of Ramesses I and father of Ramesses II, who would later become one of the most famous pharaohs in Egyptian history.

Seti I is best known for his military campaigns, particularly his successful wars against the Hittites and Libyans. He is also remembered for his extensive building projects, including the construction of several temples, including the temple of Abydos, which he dedicated to his father. His reign is considered to be a time of prosperity and stability in ancient Egypt.

Pharaoh Ramses II

King Ramses II is one of the most revered leaders in ancient Egyptian history. He ruled during the 19th dynasty, from 1279 to 1213 BCE, and is widely known for his military campaigns, ambitious building projects, and cultural achievements. Ramses II is often referred to as “Ramses the Great,” and his reign is considered one of the most prosperous and prestigious in Egyptian history.

Ramses II oversaw the construction of numerous temples, monuments, and statues throughout Egypt, including the famous temples of Abu Simbel and the Ramesseum. Ramses II was also an accomplished military strategist, leading successful campaigns against several neighboring empires, including the Hittites. His legacy continues to fascinate historians and scholars to this day.

Inside The Hypostyle Hall At Karnak

The Hypostyle Hall At Karnak

Marvel at the grandeur of the Hypostyle Hall at Karnak – a forest of majestic columns and ancient art.

As with so many things at Karnak Temple complex, the hypostyle hall is massive, covering an area of 54,000 square feet, and home to no less than 134 massive pylons/columns. Each of these massive columns are about 23 meters tall, and it is only when you actually stand inside the hall amongst its forest of columns that you truly get to appreciate just how much wealth the New Kingdom had and to what extend Amun was revered.

The Sacred Lake of the Temple of Karnak

All ancient Egyptian temples had a sacred lake, albeit of different sizes. However, the sacred lake at Karnak Temple was by far the largest of its kind and was filled with water from the Nile River. Today there is a very nice café at the lake, and it’s an ideal place to sit and relax while you let your imagination travel back through time.

Sacred Lake in the Karnak Temple

Reflect on the beauty of the Sacred Lake at Karnak Temple – a serene oasis amidst ancient wonders.

The Divine Temple of Mut

The Temple of Mut, a significant part of the Karnak Temple complex, is a captivating site dedicated to the goddess Mut, who was worshipped as a mother figure and a symbol of power in ancient Egypt. Situated just south of the main Karnak Temple, the Temple of Mut encompasses a series of smaller temples, shrines, and sacred lakes that illustrate the grandeur and religious fervor of the New Kingdom period. This temple, with its numerous statues of Sekhmet, the lion-headed goddess, offers a glimpse into the spiritual life and architectural brilliance of the time, making it an essential stop for those exploring the wonders of Karnak.

The Captivating Temple of Khonsu

Also nestled within the vast expanse of Karnak Temple, the Temple of Khonsu stands as a captivating testament to ancient Egyptian devotion and architectural prowess. Dedicated to Khonsu, the moon god and son of Amun and Mut, this temple showcases the grandeur of the New Kingdom era. Built by Pharaoh Ramesses III and later enhanced by subsequent rulers, the Temple of Khonsu is adorned with intricate hieroglyphs and vivid reliefs depicting the god’s divine journeys across the night sky.

As you wander through its towering columns and sacred halls, you’ll be transported back in time, marveling at the enduring legacy of a civilization that revered both the celestial and the terrestrial in their quest for harmony and balance.

The Majestic Avenue of Sphinxes

Last, but not least, embark on a journey along the Avenue of Sphinxes, a grand ceremonial pathway that once connected the Karnak Temple to Luxor Temple, stretching an impressive 2.7 kilometers. Flanked by majestic sphinx statues with lion bodies and human heads, this avenue symbolized protection and divine power, guiding worshippers and pharaohs alike during religious processions.

Historically, the avenue played a pivotal role during the annual Opet Festival, where the statue of Amun was paraded in a vibrant celebration of renewal and fertility. In recent years, extensive restoration efforts have breathed new life into this ancient thoroughfare, revealing the intricate craftsmanship of the sphinxes and reconnecting modern visitors with the awe-inspiring grandeur of ancient Egypt’s sacred rituals.

Other Nearby Not-to-be-Missed Momunents

Luxor governorate is home to so many ancient wonders, but there are five in particular which every visitor should try to see:

  1. Karnak Temple
  2. Luxor Temple
  3. Valley of the Kings
  4. Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
  5. The Colossi of Memnon

Karnak Temple Tour FAQ

Visiting the Karnak Temple is a fascinating journey through history. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you prepare for your adventure.

Where is Karnak Temple located?

Karnak Temple is situated near the town of El-Karnak, approximately 2.5 km from Luxor, on the east bank of the River Nile in Upper Egypt.

How old is Karnak Temple?

The oldest structures at Karnak Temple date back around 4,000 years, with its development spanning over a period of 2,000 years.

Who was the main deity worshipped at Karnak Temple?

Amun, one of the principal deities of the Theban Triad, was the main god worshipped at Karnak Temple.

Do I need a guide to visit Karnak Temple?

While not mandatory, having a guide is highly recommended to fully appreciate the temple’s history and significance.

How big is the Karnak Temple complex?

Karnak Temple covers an area of approximately 200 acres, with the sacred enclosure of Amun occupying 61 acres.

What is the Hypostyle Hall?

The Hypostyle Hall at Karnak is a massive hall with 134 columns, each about 23 meters tall, covering an area of 54,000 square feet.

What is unique about the Sacred Lake at Karnak?

The Sacred Lake at Karnak is the largest of its kind, originally filled with water from the Nile. Today, it features a café where visitors can relax and imagine ancient times.

Who built the majority of Karnak Temple?

Pharaohs like Amenhotep III, Hatshepsut, Thutmose III, Seti I, and Ramses II made significant contributions to the construction and expansion of Karnak Temple.

Are there other important sites near Karnak Temple?

Yes, nearby notable sites include Luxor Temple, the Valley of Kings, the Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon.

Can I visit Karnak Temple on a Nile cruise?

Absolutely. Many Nile cruises from Luxor to Aswan and vice versa include a visit to Karnak Temple in their itinerary.

Ready to Uncover the Mysteries of Ancient Egypt?

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Last Updated on June 24, 2024