Photo feature by Abdulaziz Faisal
QENA, Southern Egypt, Oct 30 (KUNA) -- Dendera Temple in Qena Governorate, located on the western bank of the Nile River, stands as one of Egypt's most remarkable temples, reflecting the ancient Egyptians' deep connection with astronomy.
Dating back to the Ptolemaic and Roman eras, the temple features a massive facade with 24 columns symbolizing the hours of day and night, each topped with the head of Hathor, ancient Egyptian idol, adorned with intricate carvings showcasing the splendor of ancient Egyptian art.
Its walls and ceilings are decorated with depictions of zodiac signs representing the months of the year, as well as religious scenes and sacred celebrations.
This includes the famous "Dendera Zodiac," one of the oldest astronomical maps in history, now displayed at the Louvre Museum in Paris.
In ancient times, the temple served as a center for astronomy and calendrical studies, where priests observed the stars to determine the timing of festivals and religious events.
Today, it remains one of Upper Egypt's most prominent tourist attractions, drawing visitors from around the world for its cultural and artistic significance, embodying the genius of ancient Egyptian art, architecture, and faith. (end) aff.aai