Egyptian / Egyptian Revival Architecture - Table of Contents.........................Architecture Around the World

Philae Temple of Isis - Table of Contents.

Roman Kiosk of Trajan - Philae Temple of Isis
Agilika, Egypt

Map of Philae Temple

Pronunciation of Philae: FI lee

TEXT Beneath Illustrations



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Papyrus column

Kiosk

Definitions: Small area set off by walls for special use; a small pavilion, usually open, built in gardens; a small enclosed structure, often freestanding, open on one side or with a window, used as a booth to sell newspapers, cigarettes, etc.

Kiosk of Trajan

The Kiosk of Trajan originally served as the main entrance into the temple from the river.

Built by the roman emperor Emperor Trajan (reigned AD 98-117) , the kiosk has 14 massive columns with carved floral capitals. The capitals of the plant columns were intended to be surmounted by sistrum ((a percussion instrument that become a representative cult object of Hathor)) capitals.

Inside are reliefs showing Trajan as a pharaoh making offerings to Osiris, Isis and Horus.  

The structure is today roofless, but sockets within the structure's architraves suggest that its roof, which was made of timber, was indeed constructed in ancient times. This building represents an example of the unusual combination of wood and stone in the same architectural structure for an Egyptian temple.


Photos and their arrangement © 2009 Chuck LaChiusa
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