Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Archaeological Sites & Ruins

Dendera Temple

Qena, Egypt

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST RUINS & SITES WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 4 2026

Top 10No. 1 in Egypt

Dendera Temple

The Temple of Hathor at Dendera lies in Qena Governorate, about 60 kilometres north of Luxor on the west bank of the Nile. Visitors walk through the hypostyle hall with Hathor-headed columns, painted ceilings and reliefs, then the crypts and rooftop.

Highlights

  • Hathor-headed columns
  • Painted astronomical ceilings
  • Crypt light bulb reliefs

Good to know

  • Tickets bought at the entrance, extra tickets for crypt and roof
  • Bring both cash and a card
  • Arrive early to avoid tour bus crowds

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  5. Temple of Hatshepsut N° 38 Temple of Hatshepsut Luxor Temple site
  6. Temple of Khnum N° 54 Temple of Khnum Esna Temple site