Elephantine Island

Elephantine Island is one of the most beautiful destinations in all of Egypt and that’s saying a lot considering the location. Egypt is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with breathtaking views, tons of ancient artifacts and pyramids. Elephantine Island is an Aswan area isle, located in Upper Egypt between Nubia and Egypt. It is the largest island amongst all of the Aswan area isles. In ancient times, a portion of it was used as a military fortress.

Today, known as Elephantine Island, it has also been known as Yabu or Abu, which both mean elephant. Aside from being a fortress, the island was also a well known ivory trading center. A significant number of other goods was sold and traded there as well. Some people suggest that the island was named Elephantine because of the robust ivory trade. Others believe that it was because of the shape of the island (it’s shaped like an elephant tusk). There are other tales that nearby rock formations in the shape of bathing elephants was what prompted the name.

There is plenty to see while on Elephantine Island. Visitors should be sure to visit the island’s Nilometer, an instrument that was once used to measure the Nile River’s water levels. The Elephantine Museum and the Temple of Khnum ruins are also sites to see. The museum contains many of the islands evacuated artifacts and other items of interest.

Khnum was one of Elephantine Island’s ancient principal gods and a temple was at one time built in his honor, and stood, some believe, as early as the 3rd Dynasty of Egypt. Today, mostly ruins remain. Satet (a war and fertility goddess), who was considered to be the female counterpart to Khnum, also had a temple built in her honor. It was known as the Temple of Satet (or Satis). Ruins of that structure exist as well and can be visited by those interested in seeing them. The remains of another temple can be found on the island, this one is to the God, Yahweh.

In addition to the above, visitors might be interested in area’s vaults made from mud-brick which were where the locals once buried, royal rams who had passed on, a step pyramid made from granite and a small, Ptolemaic temple.

A great museum and ancient ruins aren’t the only thing Elephantine Island has going for it. The area also boasts of gorgeous gardens and friendly people. The colorful, Nubian villages are full of hospitable and friendly persons. Individuals planning a trip to Egypt should be sure to visit Elephantine Island. The beautiful surroundings and storied history make it a wonderful place to visit.