A woman walks towards the entrance of the ancient Egyptian Philae Temple.

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Outer Monuments & Shrines

Discover the smaller chapels and elegant Roman-era pavilions surrounding the main temple complex.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

While the Great Temple of Isis dominates the island, the outer monuments hold critical historical details. These smaller structures date primarily to the Roman period.

Here you will find the iconic Trajan's Kiosk and the very last hieroglyphic inscription ever carved in ancient Egypt.

A man with a backpack stands facing the ancient Egyptian Philae Temple.

Trajan's Kiosk (Pharaoh's Bed)

10 minutesGreat photo spot

This unfinished pavilion features 14 massive columns built by the Roman Emperor Trajan. It acts as the iconic symbol of Philae Island. Frame your photos of the columns with the blue Nile River in the background.

A woman looks out at the water from inside the Philae Temple.

Temple of Hathor

10 minutesSpot the lute-playing monkey

This small temple celebrates the return of the goddess Hathor from Nubia. It features decorations of musicians, apes, and the dwarf god Bes. Look closely for a rare ancient carving of a monkey playing a lute.

The exterior of the ancient Egyptian Philae Temple with detailed carvings.

Gate of Hadrian

10 minutesWest of main temple

Located west of the main temple, this gate holds the famous Graffito of Esmet-Akhom. You can see the last known Egyptian hieroglyphic inscription in history here. The carving is dated August 24, 394 AD.