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KHARGA


Intro

Bagawat Necropolis

Interiors

Temple of Hibis

Temple of Nadura

Qasr el-Ghweita

Qasr el-Zayan

Ain Umm Dabadib

Qasr el-Labeka

Ed-Deir

Modern city and oasis

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KHARGA:
Temple of Hibis

This temple, named after the town that once existed here, is unique for Egypt in one respect. It is by far the largest and finest of temples from Egypt's 200 years under Persian rulers. It was King Darius 1 of the 6th century BCE who ordered it built, and dedicated to Amon. The temple was adorned by rulers over the following centuries, but the original style was always respected.
Today it is not available for closer inspection, as the main structure is swathed in scaffolding. It is planned to be relocated to a new location, close to the Bagawat Necropolis, but this will not be realized for many more years.
Should you be allowed to enter the area (it is guarded by tourist police, no tickets are sold) the kiosk in front of the main entrance (upper photo) is part of what was an avenue of sphinxes. The interior (visible through the gates) is noted for its beautiful capitals.

Hibis Temple, Kharga Oasis, Egypt

The kiosk right in front of the main entrance to the temple.

Hibis Temple, Kharga Oasis, Egypt

Many of the wall decorations are in excellent condition.

Hibis Temple, Kharga Oasis, Egypt

This is what it looks like now. All sides are dominated by the scaffolding.

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By: Tore Kjeilen