karnak

the temple of karnak is actually three main temples, smaller enclosed temples, and several outer temples. this vast complex was built and enlarged over a thirteen hundred year period. the three main temples of mut, monthu and amun are enclosed by enormous brick walls.

the open air museum is located to the north of the first courtyard, across from the sacred lake. the main complex, the temple of amun, is situated in the center of the entire complex. the temple of monthu is to the north of the temple of amun, while the temple of mut is to the south.

the entrance

the hypostyle hall of karnak

the most impressive part of karnak to me was the great hypostyle hall.

everything at karnak is extensively decorated with h i e r o g l y p h i c s, and some places even retain their original brilliantly painted colors.

ramses ll  with his main wife     they always used to make the wife much smaller.

the sacred lake at the temple of karnak

giant scarab near the sacred lake dedicated by Amenophis III to god khepri