Isis Temple on Philae Island, Unfinished Obelisk & Aswan Hi

Detailed Program - Half Day

We first visit the Unfinished Obelisk, which is the largest known ancient obelisk. It was ordered by Hatshepsut (1508–1458 BC), possibly to complement the Lateran Obelisk (originally at Karnak temple, later brought to the Lateran Palace in Rome). If finished it would have measured around 42 m (approximately 137 feet) and would have weighed nearly 1,200 tons. The obelisk's creators began to carve it directly out of bedrock, but cracks appeared in the granite and the project was abandoned. The bottom side of the obelisk is still attached to the bedrock. The unfinished obelisk offers unusual insights into ancient Egyptian stone-working techniques, with marks from workers' tools still clearly visible as well as ocher-colored lines marking where they were working.

We continue to The Aswan Dam, which was constructed between 1960 and 1970, and has had a significant effect on the economy and culture of Egypt. In the period 1898 and 1902 the first dam was build by the English. Before the dams were built, the Nile flooded every year during late summer, when water flowed down the valley from its East African drainage basin. These floods brought high water and natural nutrients and minerals that annually enriched the fertile soil which made the Nile valley ideal for farming since ancient times.
The last visit today is maybe the most beautiful temple in Egypt. Situated on the island of Philae, the temple of Isis is a peaceful place. The temple was begun by the Greeks in 250 BC and completed in the year 111 AD, and is well known for Trajan pavilion - which has become the symbol of the island. We reach the island by motorboat. The temple was originally situated on the island of Philae, and is one of the many temples which was moved stone by stone by UNESCO in connection with the construction of the huge Aswan dam.

Inclusions

Entrance fees to Philae temple, Unfinished Obelisk and High Dam
Qualified English, Spanish, or French guide
Hotel or location pickup and drop-off
Private tour

Exclusions

Food
Gratitude

Additional Information

Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
Primary language for your guide is English; if you request any other language, please make it clear upon reservation. Available languages: French, Spanish, Arabic
Dress code is smart casual
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
This is a private tour. Only your group will participate