Egypt Day 5 - Esna

Ancient Egyptians knew Esna as Latopolis, named for the largest of the perch species that swam in the Nile's sacred waters. The fish is still visible in bas-reliefs throughout the region. Esna's modern feature is its lock system that straddles the river. Its ancient past lives on in the colorful street market overflowing with fabrics, carpets, brassware, mother-of-pearl keepsakes and more. Esna's glorious Temple of Khnum is celebrated for its 1st-century Roman Hypostyle Hall, 24 columns topped with intricately carved floral capitals. Its walls are adorned with images of Roman emperors making offerings to Egyptian gods.Read more