Egypt: Grand Karnak Temple

From Luxor, more specifically Luxor Temple, the ~3km long Sphinx Way leads to Karnak Temple, the largest temple complex in Egypt, initially started 2000 BCE, continually expanded by succeeding pharaohs for the next 1500 years, trying to outdo one another.

The Unfinished Obelisk we saw in Aswan was destined for here. The Rome and Istanbul obelisks came from here. There may have been as many as 20 obelisks at some time. Today there are two.

Yet, it is the Great Hypostyle Hall that outshines the rest of the complex. Constructed during the 13th century BCE, 80 of the original 134 gigantic papyrus columns are still mostly standing (or re-erected). The paint on some is still vivid. It is a magical place.

Looking down Sphinx Way to Karnak Temple with a Christian Church at the right.


Karnak Temple.












Great Hypostyle Hall; which might be greatest ancient building we've seen. Video link here.
















And more of the Karnak complex.














The Great Eastern Gate.


Birds and Flowers in relief.


The Great Tank.


Apparently it is good luck to circle this Sacred Scarab Beetle monument.


The two exquisite temples below were reconstructed after being discovered as "fill" inside some of the large walls.




Some final wider shots.








Reliefs.






The Great Southern Gate.


Walking back to our hotel on the Sphinx Way.