Egypt is a land steeped in history and mystique, home to iconic ancient civilisations and remarkable archaeological sites – Among the many captivating destinations in Egypt, Luxor and Aswan stand out as gems along the Nile River…
Ahead of your next Karma Karnak enchanting cruise, let’s unravel three of the lesser-known (yet very intriguing) facts about Luxor and Aswan, shedding light on their hidden wonders!
The Avenue of Sphinxes
Did you know that Luxor was once connected to the Karnak Temple Complex by an imposing avenue lined with sphinxes? This avenue, known as the Avenue of Sphinxes, stretched for approximately two miles and served as a grand processional route. Today, efforts are underway to restore this majestic pathway.
Aswan’s Unfinished Obelisk
In Aswan, you’ll encounter an impressive sight that tells the story of ancient craftsmanship: the Unfinished Obelisk. Carved out of solid granite, this colossal obelisk was abandoned due to a flaw that appeared during its creation. Had it been completed, it would have stood approximately 137 feet tall and weighed over 1,000 tons, making it the largest obelisk ever constructed.
Philae Temple’s Relocation
Another incredible relocation project took place in Aswan, involving the Philae Temple. As the construction of the Aswan High Dam threatened to submerge the temple, an international effort was undertaken to dismantle and rebuild it on higher ground. Stone by stone, the temple was carefully moved to its current location on Agilkia Island, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
As you wander through the temples, tombs, and remnants of ancient civilizations, we hope that these fascinating facts behind Luxor and Aswan’s history will spring to mind and enhance your once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Just in time for Summer, July’s Karma Karnak Hot Deal has landed – check it out below and click ‘Book Now’ to secure your 2023 Egyptian escape:
