The Temple of Hathor, situated on the eastern side of the Temple of Isis within the Philae Temple Complex, represents a significant architectural and religious site. This temple, primarily associated with Ptolemy VI Philometor and Ptolemy VIII Euergetes II, also saw contributions from Augustus and mentions Ptolemy XII in inscriptions. The temple was dedicated to Hathor, embodying the Sun’s Eye, and its origins are deeply rooted in the worship practices that extended back to the earliest Egyptian dynasties. The temple, once enclosed by a mud-brick wall, stands as a testament to the enduring reverence for Hathor, especially highlighting her mythical return from Nubia.
Ancient Civilizations
All Ancient Civilizations, Cultures and People
Temple of Edfu
The Temple of Edfu, an ancient Egyptian temple located on the west bank of the Nile in Edfu, Upper Egypt, stands as a remarkable testament to religious beliefs and architectural prowess. Dedicated to the falcon god Horus, it is one of the best-preserved cult temples in Egypt. Its construction began in 237 BC during the reign of Ptolemy III Euergetes and was completed in 57 BC. This majestic structure not only served as a place of worship but also played a significant role in the political and spiritual life of ancient Egypt.
Inkilltambo
The Inkilltambo archaeological site, also known as the Inca “prison” is a significant archaeological site located within the micro-basin of Cachimayo. Encompassed by the Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Park, Inkilltambo is characterized by a series of structures surrounding a main huaca (sacred site) and several secondary huacas situated in the middle section of this monument.
Incallajta
Inkallaqta, also known by various spellings such as Incallacta, Incallajta, Incallakta, Inkallajta, and Inkallakta, stands as a monumental testament to the architectural and cultural prowess of the Inca civilization. Located in the Cochabamba Department, Carrasco Province, Pocona Municipality of central Bolivia, approximately 130 kilometers east of Cochabamba, this site offers profound insights into the Inca’s ceremonial practices and their architectural ingenuity.
Huaca Las Balsas
Huaca Las Balsas, a significant archaeological site within the monumental complex of Túcume, offers profound insights into the maritime mythology of the Lambayeque culture (Sican Culture). Situated in the rural district of Túcume, Lambayeque Province, on the north coast of Peru, this site is part of a larger ensemble of pyramids surrounding Cerro Purgatorio. The name “Huaca Las Balsas” translates to “Shrine of the Rafts,” a title derived from the discovery of mud reliefs depicting mythological characters aboard rowing vessels amidst a marine setting. These findings underscore the Lambayeque culture’s deep connection with the sea, a theme recurrent in their mythology and artistic expressions.
Cerro Sechín
Cerro Sechín, an archaeological site located in the Casma Province of the Ancash Region in northern Peru, represents one of the most intriguing pre-Columbian sites in South America. Discovered on July 1, 1937, by Julio C. Tello and Toribio Mejía Xesspe, this site has been a focal point for understanding the complexities of ancient Andean civilizations. Tello, a prominent figure in Peruvian archaeology, posited that Cerro Sechín was the capital of what is now referred to as the Casma/Sechín culture or Sechin complex. This complex is characterized by its megalithic architecture and the striking carved figures in bas-relief that graphically depict human sacrifices.