The temple is located on a granite headland that can be seen
from the top of the High
Dam.
The sandstone temple is dedicated to the Nubian
god, Mandulis (Merul) ,
and was probably built by Amenhotep
II, though evidences of earlier constructions can be seen.
The temple is accessible through a stone dyke from the lake
up to the pylon.
The pylon is offset to the temple's main axis making a trapezoid-shape
of the courtyard beyond it. The courtyard had once columns
on three sides.
A screen-wall separates it from the hypostyle
hall. It bears reliefs of the king in the presence of Ibis-headed
god Thoth
and Horus,
the falcon-god (See Image 3).
There is also interesting Greek inscription of a decree by
the governor of Ombos and Elephantine
ruling swine to be expelled from the temple. Also an interesting
inscription by a Nubian king called Silko commemorating his
victory can be seen at the end of the wall.
The screenwall also has a graffiti of Saint George fighting
the dragon on his horse. The carving is maybe one of the early
representations of the Christian faith in Nubia.
The reliefs on the back wall of the hypostyle hall show a
Ptolemaic
king presenting offering to Isis
and Mandulis, and Amenhotep II making offerings to Min
and Mandulis.
The hypostyle hall originally had 12 columns including 4 on
the façade. Following are further three chambers. They
had interesting inscription of deities and rulers including
Roman emperors.
The first chamber has a stairway in the south side that finally
leads to the roof. Mandulis, the deified Nubian god, is also
shown on the back wall of the temple.
The temple has also a Nilometer
to its south. (See Image 5)
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