ESNA /
Exterior
Unsuspecting visitors to the temple here will of course assume that what stands was also the original structure. There are plenty of temples smaller in Egypt. But the remaining part is the Hypostyle Hall, which is mainly built by thr Romans. The oldest parts are belong to the north-northeastern walls, dating back to the 2nd century BCE (see lowest photo).
The oldest part of the temple, dating back to Ptolemaic times. The wall to the left are the basin walls between the temple and the modern town.
The front courts, which was located in front, as well as the the most sacred halls behind are gone, or are least still unexcavated. In the 2nd century CE a quay was built to connect the temple with the Nile; important for great celebrations. Three 1st century CE Roman emperors had their cartouches added to the facade of the still standing Hypostyle Hall. Much of the space on the walls is used for scenes showing the power of the king over his enemies. Look out for the details showing the arms of the prisoners being fed to lions. In front of the temple are the remains of an early Christianchurch. Also notice the Sekhmet statue.
