Al-Karnak, known as Ipet-Isut in the ancient times, was once the thriving capital of Egypt. This is home to the largest temple ever built, known as the Great Temple of Amun. It is considered a stunning example of the architecture of it day, and was also known as "The Most Perfect of Places," and is the second most visited historical site in Egypt. Construction begain in the 16th century BC, and over 30 pharaohs contributed to the construction of the temple.

Al-Karnak is divided into four parts, of which only one - the largest section, is open to the public. The largest area is known as the Precinct of Amon-Re, which occupies a territory roughly 250,000 m2 in size. The other three sections are known as the Precinct of Montu, the Precinct of Mut, and the Temple of Amenhotep IV. Amenhotep IV is no longer in existence, thought to have been dismantled after the death of the builder.

Highlights of Amon-Re include the Great Hypostyle Hall, which contains 134 massive columns from 15 metres to 21 metres (69 feet) in height, the Festival Hall of Thutmose III, built to celebrate the jubilee (Hed-Sed) of Thutmose III and the Opet Festival, as well as the Colossus of Ramses II.

While here, be sure to catch the Sound and Light Show, which includes a historical introduction covering the birth of Thebes and the creation of the Karnak Temple. It also goes over the achievements of the various Pharaohs.

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Last edited on Nov 14, 09 11:09 AM.
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Yasmine M.

May 1, 2010

It was constructed from the beginning of the Middle Kingdom to the Greek – RomanKingdom. Every king during these periods contributed in the construction of this temple.
Karnak Temple has three main sacred areas that honor three god: Amun , the goddess Mut, and Khonsu, were members of the sacred family known as the Theban Triad.
Reference: http://www.memphistours.com/about-egypt/Karnak-Temple.php

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Adela T.

Jul 11, 2008

The Karnak temple complex, universally known only as Karnak, describes a vast conglomeration of ruined temples, chapels, pylons and other buildings. This was ancient Egyptian Ipet-isut ("The Most Selected of Places"), the main place of worship of the Theban Triad with Amun as its head. The most popular and best known site at Karnak is the Hypostyle Hall of the temple, built by Ramses II.

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Tibor H.

Mar 12, 2010

Karnak Temple complex is actually 3 kilometres to the north from Luxor. This incredible large templom complex is badly ruined but still gives an impression of its magnificency in the ancient times with the many sculptures of ancient egyptian gods, massive great columns, obelisks etc....

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Natalia B.

Feb 11, 2010

uber majestic place. i juz went like 2 weeks ago. the place is humungous and beautiful with all the statues, hieroglyphs and the colossal walls and monuments. i wud love to visit it again when they finally built the road that connect Temple of Karnak to Temple of Luxor

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Laura N.

Oct 30, 2008

If you are a fan of Ancient Egypt, this is definitely a must-see. I was breathless. Huge, with tons of history engraved on every single wall. Don't forget to go round the khepri pillar to go back to Egypt (so says the legend): it worked for me ;)

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