Temple of Kom Ombo

A unique double temple on the Nile at Kom Ombo in Upper Egypt, begun by Ptolemy VI Philometor (180-145 BC) and expanded by subsequent Ptolemaic rulers and Romans. Its unprecedented dual design features symmetrically duplicated courts, halls, and sanctuaries dedicated to two deities: the crocodile god Sobek in the southern half and the falcon god Haroeris (Horus the Elder) in the northern half. The inner rear wall bears a notable relief believed to depict ancient surgical instruments. Much of the temple has been damaged by Nile flooding, earthquakes, and stone quarrying over the centuries.