Temple of Amada: The Oldest Surviving Temple in Nubia
The Temple of Amada is the oldest standing temple in Nubia, located on the western bank of Lake Nasser in southern Egypt. It was originally built during the 18th Dynasty by Pharaoh Thutmose III and later expanded by his successor Amenhotep II and other New Kingdom rulers, including Thutmose IV and Seti I.
Dedicated to the gods Amun and Ra-Horakhty, the temple is renowned not for its size, but for the exquisite preservation of its interior reliefs and vibrant wall paintings, which are considered among the finest examples of New Kingdom art in Nubia. The temple's walls are covered in colorful scenes depicting pharaohs offering to the gods, and inscriptions that include important historical texts—such as military victories and political messages.
Though small, the Temple of Amada holds great historical value. One of its inscriptions, for example, documents the punishment of rebellious Nubians and praises the pharaoh’s military strength. Another commemorates the building activities of Amenhotep II.
In the 1960s, the temple was at risk of being submerged by the rising waters of Lake Nasser following the construction of the Aswan High Dam. It was carefully moved—intact—to a nearby, higher location as part of the international campaign led by UNESCO to save Nubian monuments.
Today, the Temple of Amada offers visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Egyptian art and power during the New Kingdom. Its peaceful location and historical depth make it a hidden treasure for history lovers and cultural travelers alike.
