Complex Dendera Temples Part 4
Outbuildings of Hathor temple
Outbuildings of Hathor temple
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Outbuildings of Hathor temple
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- The structure was devoted to the goddess and her child Ihy, with its thematic focus on childbirth evident in the depictions of the god Bes, a patron deity associated with childbirth. These figures are intricately carved on the abaci situated above the column capitals, symbolizing Bes's protective role over the mother and her newborn during the birthing process.
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Outbuildings of Hathor temple
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Outbuildings of Hathor temple
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- Situated directly south of this mammisi are the remnants of a 5th-century AD Christian basilica, alongside an earlier birth house dating back to the 30th Dynasty and the Ptolemaic Period. Notably, the scenes adorning this structure depict offerings made by Augustus' successor, Trajan, to Hathor, showcasing some of the most exquisite artistic representations found throughout Egypt.
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Outbuildings of Hathor temple
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Outbuildings of Hathor temple
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- The latter structure underwent division due to the construction of the Roman enclosure wall, necessitating the establishment of the subsequent birth house. Initiated by Nectanebo I and finalized during the Ptolemaic period, this birth house reflects a blend of architectural influences spanning different eras of Egyptian history.
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Outbuildings of Hathor temple
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- Adjacent to these structures lie the remnants of a mud-brick sanatorium, a unique feature among Egyptian temples. Here, visitors had the opportunity to partake in sacred baths or spend the night, hoping to experience healing dreams bestowed by the divine presence of the goddess.
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Outbuildings of Hathor temple
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- To the west of the sanatorium stands a small chapel dedicated to Nebhepetre "Mentuhotep" from the 11th Dynasty. Originally, it appears to have been devoted to the cult of the king rather than that of the goddess Hathor, likely serving as an auxiliary structure to the main temple during the Middle Kingdom. However, this chapel has been relocated in modern times and currently stands restored in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.
- Further south, at the southwest corner of the temple compound, lies the sacred lake, which once provided water for the priests' ablutions. Encircled by stone and featuring flights of stairs descending from each corner, this ceremonial basin stands as the best-preserved example of its kind among Egyptian temples. Today, it remains dry, with tall trees flourishing within its walls, imbuing the area with a tranquil ambiance.
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Outbuildings of Hathor temple
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- Adjacent to the sacred lake is a well equipped with rock-cut steps, facilitating access to water for the daily operations and rituals conducted within the temple complex.
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Outbuildings of Hathor temple
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Immediately south of Hathor's temple lies the Iseum, the temple dedicated to the birth of Isis. Within the rear wall of the sanctuary, there used to be a statue of Osiris, although it is now destroyed. The statue was supported by the arms of Isis and Nephthys, reflecting the symbolic and mythological elements central to Egyptian religious practices.
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