Karnak
The main entrance to Karnak Temple with the first Pylon.
The processional way to the first Pylon is lined with ram-headed sphinxes. They represent the main god Amun and between the forelegs of each is the figure of the ubiquitous Pharaoh, Ramesses II.
The forecourt, northern columns.
The entrance Pylon to the great Hypostyle Hall from the forecourt, flanked by the colossi of (you’ve guessed it) Ramesses II.
Below the Colossus of Ramesses II with his main wife Nefertari at his knees.
The Great Hypostyle Hall. The hall is enormous and filled with 134 of these massive columns. It is a very odd feeling realising that you are in such a large space, yet you feel so enclosed. You stand in one spot and you may only see the columns surrounding you, then you move a couple of steps and all of a sudden the vista opens up and you can see to the distance on the other side. You would not stand a chance of hide-and-seek here. As Jo found out, it is easy to lose your sense of direction.
The forest of columns were required to support the heavy roof of the Great Hypostyle Hall – which has now disappeared.
Apparently each column is so massive that it takes the outstretched arms of six people to encircle one.
The bases of the columns are structural – as well as functional
Ann & Jo between the 3rd & 4th Pylons looking towards the Cachette Court.
Me in front of the giant Scarab by the Sacred Lake.
Jo & me with one of Queen Hatshepsut’s obelisks in the background. At nearly 100ft high, this is the tallest obelisk in Egypt.
Queen Hatshepsut’s other obelisk fell down and here Jo & Ann are standing by its pinnacle.
