We certainly didn't expect to see Elton John in Egypt, but Crocodile Rock was our next stop on the Nile River. After cruising all day we finally arrived at the Temple of Kom-Ombo, where life remains much as it was a thousand years ago.....minus the crocodiles!
The temple is located within a short walk from the docks and very unique because it is in fact a double temple, dedicated to Sobek the crocodile god, and Horus the falcon-headed god. The layout combines two temples in one with each side having its own gateways and chapels.
In addition to beautiful column capitals, the temple of Kom Ombo also features fascinating scenes decorating its walls. Calendars list festivals and other cultic activity, along with their dates and accompanying rituals.
During the Roman Period, in the 2nd century AD, a scene was carved featuring what are believed to be surgical instruments, demonstrating how sophisticated ancient Egyptian medicine was. Look for yourself and see if you agree...
The structure of the temple complex is unusual in that there are two entrances and two courtyards, one for each god. This suggests that the temple was designed to serve both gods equally, emphasizing their duality. Even today, there are many mysterious secrets about the temple that have yet to be discovered. In the very back of the temple, Sobek and Horus can be seen on their respective sides of the temple in a deeply symbolic scene.
Until recent times the Egyptian Nile was infested with crocodiles, who would lie on the riverbank and devour animals and humans alike. So it is not surprising that the locals lived in fear. Captive crocodiles were kept within the temple and many mummified crocodiles have been found in cemeteries, some of which can be seen in the nearby museum today.
......While the other kids were rocking 'round the clock, we were hopping and bopping at the Crocodile Rock!
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