Temple of Debod

Temple of Debod

The Temple of Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple located in Madrid, the capital of Spain. It is one of the few well-preserved Egyptian structures outside of Egypt and the only one with Egyptian architectural features in Spain.

This ancient temple dates back to 200 BC and was originally built 15 kilometers south of Aswan in southeastern Egypt. The riverside temple was threatened by the construction of the Aswan High Dam, prompting UNESCO to issue an appeal to save the endangered monument. Spanish engineers helped the Egyptian government relocate these ruins to a safe area. In 1968, the Egyptian government gifted the temple to Spain in recognition of their assistance. The relocated temple was reconstructed in Madrid between 1970 and 1972 and opened to the public in 1972, maintaining its original east-west orientation. Visitors can enter through two massive gates, and hieroglyphics can be found in the western hall of the temple. Inside, there are also photographs and documents chronicling the temple’s long history, including the reconstruction process in Madrid.

The Temple of Debod is also one of the best spots in Madrid to watch the sunset. Many photographers choose this location to capture the ancient temple framed against the beautiful evening sky.

Temple of Debod

Must-see reason: The only building in Spain with Egyptian architectural characteristics

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Spain[Spain]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Autonomous Community of Madrid [Madrid Autonomous Community]

City where the attraction is located: Madrid [Madrid]