Temple of Kom Ombo Aswan Egypt

Temple of Kom Ombo Aswan Egypt Perched dramatically on the banks of the Nile River near Aswan, the Temple of Kom Ombo is one of Egypt’s most unique ancient sites. Built during the Ptolemaic Dynasty (180–47 BCE), this extraordinary double temple is dedicated to two rival gods: Sobek, the crocodile-headed god of fertility, and Horus the Elder, the falcon-headed sky god.

A Temple of Perfect Symmetry

Kom Ombo’s most striking feature is its perfectly symmetrical dual design – two identical entrances, courts, hypostyle halls, and sanctuaries running along a single axis. This rare architecture reflects the temple’s purpose: to balance the opposing forces of Sobek (chaos) and Horus (order).

Key Highlights & Must-See Features

• The Twin Sanctuaries – One for Sobek, one for Horus, each with original altars and reliefs of Ptolemaic kings making offerings.

• Ancient Medical Reliefs – Some of the world’s oldest surgical instruments and medical scenes are carved on the walls.

• The Crocodile Museum – Houses mummified crocodiles, a nod to Sobek’s sacred animals worshipped here.

• Nilometer & Well – Used to measure the Nile’s water levels for flood predictions.

• Calendar & Astronomical Ceiling – Features an ancient Egyptian calendar and star charts.

Why Was Kom Ombo Important?

• Strategic Nile Location – Built on a high mound to watch for crocodile attacks and river invaders.

• Healing Center – Believed to have been a temple-hospital where priests treated the sick.

• Crocodile Cult Hub – Local crocodiles were mummified as incarnations of Sobek.

Best Time to Visit

Kom Ombo is magical at sunset when its sandstone walls glow golden. Many visitors stop here on Nile cruises between Aswan and Luxor.