Philea Island, located in the Nile River in Egypt, is home to the temple complex of the goddess Isis. This complex, also known as the “Temple of Isis at Philae,” was built during the Ptolemaic period and is considered one of the last ancient Egyptian temples to be built.
However, in the 1960s, the construction of the Aswan High Dam threatened to submerge the temple complex under water. In order to save the temple, an international effort was undertaken to relocate the temple to the nearby island of Agilkia.
The transfer of the temple, which began in 1972 and was completed in 1980, involved the dismantling of the temple block by block and rebuilding it on Agilkia Island. This was a monumental task, as the temple complex consists of several buildings, including the main temple, a birth house, and a Nilometer. The project required the expertise of engineers, architects, and archaeologists from all over the world, and was deemed a success as the temple is now preserved for future generations to enjoy.
Today, visitors to Philea Island can still see the temple’s original location, marked by a few remaining columns, while the fully reconstructed temple complex can be visited on Agilkia Island. This successful relocation serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage, even in the face of modern development.
Philea Island, also known as Filai Island or Philae Island, is a small island located in the Nile River in Egypt. The island is famous for its ancient temple complex, which was dedicated to the goddess Isis and was one of the last pagan temples to be closed in the Roman Empire. The temple complex was originally built on the island of Philae in the 2nd century BCE and was relocated to its current location in the 1970s, as a result of the construction of the Aswan Dam.
The temples on Philae Island are considered to be some of the most well-preserved examples of ancient Egyptian architecture, with many of the original hieroglyphics and carvings still visible. Visitors can explore the temple complex and see the many intricate carvings, inscriptions, and statues of the goddess Isis. The island is also home to a number of other ancient Egyptian ruins, including a Nilometer, which was used to measure the Nile’s water level.
Today, Philea Island is a popular tourist destination and can be reached by boat from the mainland. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the temple complex and learn about the history and significance of the island and its monuments.