Gebel El-Silsila

Gebel el-Silsila is an ancient sandstone quarry that supplied the building blocks for many of the magnificent temples and monuments along the Nile. Gebel el-Silsila, which means "Chain of Mountains" in Arabic, is located 65 km north of Aswan, where the river narrows and flows between steep cliffs on both sides. Here you can admire the traces of the ancient quarrying activity, such as masons' marks, inscriptions, stelae, and rock-cut shrines. You can also explore the Speos of Horemheb, a rock-cut temple dedicated to the god Sobek, who was worshipped here as the controller of the waters and the protector of the crocodiles.

Our Egyptologist guide will explain to you the history and significance of this site, which was known in Pharaonic times as Khenu, meaning "The Place of Rowing". You will learn how Gebel el-Silsila was a major source of sandstone from the 18th Dynasty to the Roman period, and how it was used to construct some of the most impressive structures in Egypt, such as Karnak, Luxor, Medinet Habu, Kom Ombo and the Ramesseum. You will also discover how Gebel el-Silsila was an important cult center for the Nile, where sacrifices were made every year to ensure the fertility of the land.

Gebel el-Silsila is a hidden gem that will surprise you with its beauty and charm, you will be rewarded with a memorable adventure that will enrich your knowledge and appreciation of Egypt's ancient civilization.