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ASWAN:
Nilometers on Elephantine

Nilometer, Elephantine Island, Aswan, Egypt

Elephantine has two nilometers, both belonging to each their god and temple. The two are quite different in their arrangement.

Khnum's nilometer is shaped as a square basin, while Satet's is more traditional being a staircase going all the way down to the river, with measuring holes in its walls. The two photos show Satet's nilometer.

So what was a nilometer? A nilometer gave indications to the water level of the Nile, and depending on the season, predictions to the water levels for the coming season could be issued. Measures could be taken if there was danger of drought. But also, these predictions allowed easier calculations for taxes on the local farmer.

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