Event: Egypt

Wonders of Egypt: Temple of Horus

When:	Daily
Where:	Temple of Horus

This temple near Aswan was the main centre for the cult of falcon god Horus in ancient Egypt. It was constructed between 237 and 57 BC and is said to have been built on the site of the pre-historic battle between Horus and the dark god Seth, who murdered Osiris, Horus' father.

The current temple, which is both the best-preserved and one of the largest temples in Egypt, second only to Karnak, is thought to be the last in a long series of temples, the first of which according to legend was a grass hut containing the statue believed to be the physical manifestation of the god.

The most impressive statue of Horus you'll find in the temple these days is the ten-foot "colossus" of Horus near the entrance. The "living statue" used to be kept in the temple's inner sanctuary, constantly cared for like a living being by its priests, who anointed it, dressed and robed it and prayed to it, receiving offerings and food on its behalf and looking after it in all possible ways. Not only that, but the statue was even entitled to its conjugal rights!