Explore More UK - Spring 2021

DISCOVERY
THE SECRETS OF
THE PYRAMIDS
Egypt’s pyramids are its
most iconic treasures.
Discover the necropolis
of Sakkara, thought
to be the first pyramid built in
ancient Egypt. At Giza Plateau,
the most spectacular are the Great
Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre and
Menkaure. Also on the list is Abu
al-Hol – the Sphinx that guards
the entrance to the tombs.
TOP 10
DESTINATIONS IN EGYPT
We’ve rounded up the highlights of this ancient land, a
place where the remains of an ancient civilisation blend
with the hustle and bustle of modern-day life
LUXOR TEMPLE
This striking temple
sits on the fringes of the
modern town of Luxor.
Known as the Southern
Sanctuary, the interiors
boast ancient hieroglyphs
telling of the festival of
Opet which was held
annually in ancient
Egypt. Visit the Great
Court of Ramses II,
whose walls are adorned
with the names and titles
of his 17 sons.
CITADEL OF SALAH EL DIN
The medieval Islamic-era fortification in Cairo is perched on a hill
that looms over the city. Its spectacular dome and minarets shoot
up to dominate the capital city’s skyline while its imposing gateways
and high defending walls show its purpose during a time of warfare.
The citadel is one of Cairo’s main attractions and one of the most
popular non-pharaonic monuments – along with the Mohamed
Ali Mosque – it today houses various museums, and is the most
prominent and photographed spot within the complex.
4
DENDERA TEMPLE
EXPLORATION
The complex of Dendera is one of
Egypt’s best-preserved sites and is
situated on the west bank of the
Nile. It dates all the way back to the
mid-4th century BC and is thought
to be a shrine to the goddess of
love, Hathor. Inside, the temple
boasts examples of Ptolemaic
Egyptian art, and a replica of the
Dendera Zodiac – a sculpture from
the Greco-Roman period that charts
stars in the ancient sky.
TEMPLES OF PHILAE
Founded around 280 BC, the
Temples of Philae were an important
centre for the cult of Isis, and later
were of great significance to the
Greeks and Romans. The temples
are now a UNESCO site, and have
been moved, block by block, to
Agilka Island. Discover the sites
of the temples, staying for the
evening to catch the light show
that creates a dramatic kaleidoscope
of light and shadow, bringing
the figures displayed on
the walls to life.
PHOTOS: ©AWL IMAGES; ISTOCK; ALAMY5
14 VIKING.COM | SPRING 2021
SPRING 2021 | VIKING.COM 15